Information - organization - decision: Some strange loops

Acceptance of the theoretical foundations of Management Information Systems (MIS) has remained surprisingly high in the past twenty years, whereas information processing technologies have been improving at an incredible rate. This stability appears to be because the MIS model is based on the cybernetic model of organizations. We see, however, a conceptual crisis due in the development of more and more complex information systems and increased questioning of the deficiencies of organizational models based on cybernetic theory. This is particularly highlighted by the problems encountered in introducing the “bounded rationality paradigm” of H.A. Simon into the model.In this paper, we propose a new model that should be better adapted to contempory technology. This model allows both order and disorder to be included, while incorporating the concept of “organizational memory,” to improve the representation of a complex organizational information system with an action and process aspect.     

MOVIE-TOOL:一个基于面向对象技术的动画制作工具的设计与实现

动画技术是计算机图形学研究的重要课题,也是计算机应用发展的重要方向。本文提出了一种新型的动画制作工具MOVIE-TOOL,它以面向对象技术为基础,从一个新的角度出发考虑动画的实现。新的动画制作工具与传统的动画制作工具相比,具有高效、易实现、易扩充等一系列优点。本文讨论了MOVIE-TOOL设计的思想与实现技术。     

On the consideration of uncertainty in design: optimization - reliability - robustness

Structural designs proposed by engineers aim to ensure that specific defined requirements are satisfied. Structural optimization is also widely used to identify an admissible design with optimal performance. However, it is important to remember that real mechanical problems exhibit uncertainties in practice that might entail challenges when searching for admissible and/or optimal design solutions. One objective of this paper is to discuss the possible formulations of design problems in this type of uncertain context. By considering uncertainties in the constraint and/or objective functions underlying design problems, several design strategies might in fact be implemented. Especially, this paper should contribute to clarifying the use of the concepts of robustness and reliability in design. After an introduction, the featured design strategies are illustrated and discussed via three academic examples which involve multiple random and design variables. Results show that the structural solutions obtained can be quite sensitive to the formulation of the problem. Thus, the latter should be considered as an essential step during the design procedure.     

Recollections on Lotus 1-2-3: Benchmark for Spreadsheet Software

These recollections trace the founding of Lotus Development Corp. and the genesis of Lotus 1-2-3, the spreadsheet software for personal computers that took the market by storm in the early 1980s. The author examines the state of the personal computer industry at the time and forces that favored Lotus 1-2-3's success.