Building a Universe

Technology

Technology affects every aspect of world building. It is also affected by every aspect. Technology develops in order to meet a need of the people who develop it. Even though the ancient Egyptians built the equivalent of a steam engine, they couldn't see a use for it, and so never used it.

Keep in mind that we humans have brains, and we'll always use technology in just about any guise in order to make our lives easier. Our technology affects every aspect of our lives. It should also affect every aspect of your characters' lives. Technology also determines power. The person or group of people with the better tech usually wins, but that's not always the case.

When you are thinking about the technology on your world, keep the following in mind:

What is the level of technology on your world? How does the level of technology on your planet differ from that of Earth? Are there planes but no firearms, for instance? Is the technology "futuristic" or "barbaric?"
Who possesses what levels of technology? Does one group or race possess better technology than another group or race? How did this come about?
How does technology affect religion? Are there certain technologies that religion supports? Are there certain technologies that religions find deviant or sacrilegious?
How does technology affect the society as a whole? Are there special rituals surrounding the use of technology? Do people feel technology is advancing too far too quickly?
How are some every day tasks made easier with technology?
Is magic present? How does magic affect technology? Is technology thought of as a form of magic?
What are the mundane aspects of the technology on your planet? What are the cutting edge aspects?
Are there people that think technology has gone too far? Are there ethical, legal or moral questions surrounding some forms of technology? What are they? Who believes what about the technology?
Are there legal ramifications for using certain types of technology? Are there laws restricting the use of some forms of technology? What are those laws? Why are they in place?

Once you've start getting answers to these questions, you'll start thinking of more questions yourself.