You know how that old expression "toys for boys" tends to be uttered in a sarky and derogative fashion every time another ugly chunk of "male" technology makes its way into the house.

Well, according to the latest A-level results that particular phrase could become obsolete.

Statistics show clearly girls are getting better A-level results than boys.

Many are now doing very well in traditionally male-dominated arenas, such as computing and engineering.

This shift is reflected in the commercial world as more and more women are holding down top jobs in technology companies. But the real impact is on the grass roots of the industry. Programmers, designers and software/hardware engineers are just as likely to be women.

This upsurge in technologically astute "girl power" is starting to have a profound affect on the way technology looks and performs. The dynamics of the computer industry are changing as more women find themselves in a position to make purchasing decisions.

Because the bulk of computers have been sold to men, who (admit it chaps) tend to focus on fancy gadgets and gizmos rather than style, very little consideration appears to have been given to what women really want.

In a straw poll, female computer users' first consideration when making a purchasing decision was sound basic functionality followed by style and design. These principles can now be seen in retail goods.

The lightweight Sony Vaio laptop was one of the first indications. Finished in a gentle metallic purple tint, this elegant top-range computer was an instant hit with women. Now the rest of the industry is catching on and releasing new products that are a far cry from an ugly black or grey box.

The Apple i-Mac is a prime example of colour and design led technology. It has sold by the million, is bright and cheerful and has changed the way offices look. Canon IXUS digital cameras are another excellent instance of superb design and functional technology working together.

In the gizmo end of the technology industry it is no surprise to discover a growing selection of girl-friendly goodies, including personal digital assistants (PDAs) and techno-toys in pastel shades.

"Toys for girls" does not have the same sardonic ring but fabulous gadgets which look as good as they work will soon be available from all the major vendors.

As more girls take charge, design will almost certainly be given greater importance and offices may start to resemble places we would like to spend our time. I can't wait until colour and design become an intrinsic part of both mobile and desktop technology.

Who knows, we could even end up colour co-ordinating our desktop computers with our mobile phones. Would that be so very bad?