Computer design from the programmer's viewpoint

Abstract

Mr. Rice has given a stimulating introduction to the subject of the impending revolution in computer technology. This paper will continue this introduction by calling attention to the spectrum of activity in computer design. On the one extreme of this design spectrum is the user and on the other extreme is the engineer-designer. Interpolated between these two positions are the following: problem formulator, programmer, system specifier, system designer, logical designer, and circuit designer. Mr. Rice has introduced the subject from the designer end of the spectrum; this paper will make some further remarks of introduction along the lines of the user's viewpoint and then further develop ideas of what the user expects in the way of computer design.