An industrial policy, piece by piece
Article Abstract:
A framework of support for technological development is evolving in the US in spite of ideological opposition to an overall 'industrial policy.' Examples of government technical assistance include: $35 million in grants from the National Institute of Standards and Technology, for help with new technologies; $11.9 million more for technology centers that help small-sized and medium-sized companies implement techniques that involve information technology; and $50 million a year for research by companies or universities into areas such as fiber optics. Many states have technical assistance programs, and some members of Congress advocate increased support for such Federal and state efforts. Both the Bush and the Reagan administrations have opposed a US industrial policy on principle. The White House generally resists the notion of 'central planning,' questioning whether the government ought to choose among competing technologies. The free market itself, it is thought, ought to choose.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1991
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Pushing the envelope at Boeing; designing the 777 by computer saves time and money. But can it help fend off rivals?
Article Abstract:
The Boeing 777 airliner, scheduled for delivery in May 1995, is being designed with the help of computers. Boeing officials say that computer-aided design (CAD) procedures and techniques will translate into various advantages: a 'paperless' design saves time and money because last-minute changes are minimized; the need to build a full-scale mockup is done away with; and it will be easier to get approval from the federal government to fly over oceans, which is important because an ocean-going certification is a critical factor in competition against aircraft from other companies. Competition against companies such as McDonnell Douglas, which has been taking orders away from Boeing for several years, is an important consideration. The change to CAD is part of a $4 billion attempt by Boeing to remain dominant in the commercial airliner industry.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1991
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Computers in the toolbox
Article Abstract:
Innovis Interactive Technologies has introduced the Weyerhaeuser Designcenter in hardware retail stores to enable customers to plan and design home-improvement projects. The purpose of the design center is to promote the sale of lumber and related materials and supplies. The Weyerhaeuser Designcenter won an award in June, 1989, given by Computerworld magazine and the Smithsonian Institution. Customers come in with an idea such as a deck they would like to build, and they can leave with a plan in their hands because the center comes with a color printer. As computers have become easier to use, and as more people are becoming familiar with them, more companies are using them as sales tools.
Publication Name: The New York Times
Subject: News, opinion and commentary
ISSN: 0362-4331
Year: 1989
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