This text explores how, in 1965, the American Academy of Arts and Sciences initiated the Commission on the Year 2000. The Commission did not believe that one could "predict" the future, but sought instead to identify structural changes in society that would have long-term social impacts.

The effectiveness of the user-computer interface has become increasingly important as computer systems have become useful tools for persons not trained in computer science. In fact, the interface is often the most important factor in the success or failure of any computer system. Dealing with the numerous subtly interrelated issues and technical, behavioral, and aesthetic considerations consumes a large and increasing share of development time and a corresponding percentage of the total code for any given application. A revision of one of the most successful books on human-computer interaction, this compilation gives students, researchers, and practitioners an overview of the significant concepts and results in the field and a comprehensive guide to the research literature. Like the first edition, this book combines reprints of key research papers and case studies with synthesizing survey material and analysis by the editors. It is significantly reorganized, updated, and enhanced; over 90% of the papers are new. An invaluable resource for systems designers, cognitive scientists, computer scientists, managers, and anyone concerned with the effectiveness of user-computer interfaces, it is also designed for use as a primary or supplementary text for graduate and advanced undergraduate courses in human-computer interaction and interface design. - Human computer interaction--historical, intellectual, and social - Developing interactive systems, including design, evaluation methods, and development tools - The interaction experience, through a variety of sensory modalities including vision, touch, gesture, audition, speech, and language - Theories of information processing and issues of human-computer fit and adaptation

"Time Bomb 2000" describes how the year 2000 problem can potentially affect all facets of business life if not properly addressed. Chapters are devoted to effects on home PCs, on the job, the news, airplanes, and more. Advice is given on how to deal with the problem if and when they actually occur.

Extract: Malaysian palm oil will continue to compete strongly in world markets with soybean and other vegetable oils for the rest of this century. Production could reach 6 million tons in 1990 and 8 million tons in 2000 under the best possible conditions. In more likely scenarios, production would be 5.1 to 5.4 million tons in 1990 and 6.7 to 7.5 million tons in 2000. Malaysia will need to export about 4 million tons in 1990 and 5 million tons in 2000.