Computers gain new respect as translators

Article Abstract:

The use of computers to translate documents from one language to another has long been a goal of scientists. Advances in artificial intelligence, more powerful computers and new approaches to translation have increased speculation that a fully-operational translation system is close at hand. Companies like Systran Translation Systems Inc of La Jolla, CA claim 85 percent accuracy with their document translation systems. Translated documents nevertheless still need a human editor to correct and refine the computer-generated results. Advanced techniques in artificial intelligence that simulate human thinking and the use of 'unified grammars' that contain common grammar concepts and universal meanings are making the idea of machine translation more plausible, but many scientists believe it will be many years before a realistic translation system is operational.

Research, Computer industry, Technological forecasting, Industrial research, Artificial intelligence, Translation software, Translating and interpreting, Translation (Languages), Research and Development, Future of Computing, Foreign Language Translation Software

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Lotus posts its first loss for a quarter; deficit is attributed to $53 million write-off on Samna acquisition

Article Abstract:

Lotus Development Corp reports the first quarterly loss in the software publisher's history. Lotus loses $31.6 million, compared to a profit of $29.4 million in the same quarter a year earlier. For 1990, Lotus reports earnings of $23.3 million or 54 cents a share, compared to $68 million and $1.61 a share in 1989. According to Chmn Jim P. Manzi, the loss is not significant. Manzi says the quarterly loss is a result of a $53 million write-off charged to the cost of last year's acquisition of Samna Corp, an Atlanta-based company that makes Ami Pro, the word processor. Otherwise, sales are up. Nevertheless, industry analysts express doubts about the long-term status of Lotus and believe a Lotus spreadsheet product that supports the Microsoft Windows graphical user interface is necessary to the company's financial well-being.

Computer software industry, Software industry, Finance, Profits, Lotus Development Corp., LOTS, Profit, Financial Report, Losses

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