The ability to efficiently optimize or re-optimize an algorithm for high performance on a particular processor architecture is crucial in a wide spectrum of engineering and scientific applications. To help bridge the gap between fully automated optimization, which does not reliably produce optimal code, and fully manual optimization, which is…

As advancements in automation continue to alter the systemic behavior of computer systems in a wide variety of industrial applications, human-machine interactions are increasingly becoming supervisory in nature, with less hands-on human involvement. This maturing of the human role within the human-computer relationship is relegating operations…

Part-time indexers were trained according to a previously established training program. The performance of experienced indexers was compared to the performance of these index trainees. Several makes of microfiche readers were evaluated, particularly with regard to their use by indexers. One make offered the most advantages, and a number of these…

A Computer Integrated Manufacturing System may make it possible for severely disabled people to custom design, machine, and manufacture either wood or metal parts. Programmable automation merges computer aided design, computer aided manufacturing, computer aided engineering, and computer integrated manufacturing systems with automated production…

Automation is a word that describes the workings of computers and the innovations of automatic transfer machines in the factory. As the hallmark of the new industrial revolution, computers displace workers and create a need for new skills and retraining programs. With improved communication between industry and the educational community to…

This presentation addresses three basic social issues generated by the computer revolution. The first section, "Money Matters," focuses on the economic effects of computer technology. These include the replacement of workers by fully automated machines, the threat to professionals posed by expanded access to specialized information, and the…

The author discusses how to use a sociotechnical systems approach when implementing technology in the workplace to ensure better acceptance of technology and increased effectiveness of the new systems. (CH)

This article discusses the impact of technology on the formation of skills and the career advancement of persons who are blind or visually impaired. It concludes that dependence on technology (computerization and automation) and the mechanistic aspects of jobs may trap blind and visually impaired workers in occupations with narrow career paths…

Discussion of the effect on the workforce of the application of electronic data processing technologies to information handling activities highlights task specialization; white collar alienation; feelings of powerlessness, meaninglessness, and normlessness in workers; the chronology of automation; and experimentation and communication. Nineteen…

This report presents documentation of files, of file organization, and of 42 of the modular program subroutines used in a pilot project devised by the Oregon State University (OSU) Computer Center to simulate procedures in the Acquisitions Department of the OSU Library. A total of 224 bibliographically verified requests for monographs, 30 vender…

For those unfamiliar with the Stanford Physics Information Retrieval System (SPIRES) an introduction and background section is provided in this 1969-70 annual report. This is followed by: (1) the SPIRES I prototype, (2) developing a production system--SPIRES II and (3) system scope and requirements analysis. The appendices present: (1) Stanford…

Word processing and data processing share a working relationship in a total information system, the technology for which is currently available. The article discusses word processing hardware, principally minicomputers, and personnel requirements, with implications for office occupations education. (MF)

A brief review of some of the more important needs imposed by current and projected Department of Defense training problems is followed by descriptions of such automated aids as the LAMPS MARK III Weapons System and the Air Force's F-16 Instructional System Development (ISD) effort. These aids have been designed and developed in response to the…

REACTIONS OF A USER POPULATION (SCIENTISTS/ENGINEERS AND LIBRARIANS) TO AN OPERATIONAL TEST OF AN ON-LINE SYSTEM FOR RETRIEVING DOCUMENT CITATIONS (RECON) WERE STUDIED AT SEVERAL NASA FACILITIES. DURING A TWO MONTH OPERATIONAL TEST PERIOD, DATA WERE COLLECTED REGARDING FREQUENCY OF USAGE AND DEGREE OF SUCCESS ENCOUNTERED IN CONDUCTING ON-LINE…

The third report from a comprehensive Unesco study, this document traces the history of the application of computer-based technology to the book distribution process in the United States and indicates functional areas currently showing the effects of using this technology. Ways in which computer use is altering book distribution management…