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Today, we're doing an awfully good job with some very old hardware and
software. Small utilities that were `experimentally' designed at one
institution have been widely adopted and are being used by thousands
of people every day. Online databases designed to serve one small
community are now sharing their information with a global community.
Technological advances, such as High-speed ISDN phone lines and the
NREN network in America will allow Human Factors experts to redesign
interfaces and utilities with greater freedom, and for different user
groups.
With the existing utilities and interfaces, only a highly motivated
(and patient) user can take full advantage. Until the new technology
and interfaces arrive, I believe the best way to empower users is to
motivate and educate them--first share the concepts of computers and
computer networks, then give them an enthusiastic introduction to the
interfaces and information available across the Internet.
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sean dreilinger