Lesson for a high-tech president: the I.B.M. problem

Article Abstract:

The swift changes in the high technology marketplace that has left IBM, the dominant force in the global computer industry in the 1980s, struggling for survival raises questions on the ability of government to help the ailing industry. The policy focus of the 1990s will have to be on insuring that the United States has key technologies or have access to them to be able to compete effectively with its international rivals. The Clinton administration's technology policy combines government-industry partnerships with infrastructure development, improved training, tax incentives for investments in new companies and the pursuit of new foreign markets. Economic analysts analysts are divided as to how to implement this policy. One group, as represented by the Berkeley Roundtable on the International Economy, advocates a selective approach that distinguishes between essential and pervasive technology. Another group sees such approach is risky and suggests, instead, the creation of an atmosphere of innovation among companies and markets.

Laws, regulations and rules, High technology, Scandinavia, Government Regulation

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How did Dell Computer stumble?

Article Abstract:

Officials at Dell Computer Corp say the company's recent financial difficulties were caused by senior management's failed analysis of the notebook computer market. Dell's stock recently dropped 23 percent in one day after the company reported 1st qtr 1993 profits were down 50 percent to $10.2 million amidst overall revenue expansion of more than 80 percent to $672 million. Until the first quarter, Dell has posted increased profits in 14 consecutive quarters. Officials say problems in the company's notebook division include misreading how quickly users were likely to upgrade to more powerful 80486-based systems. They say the company's explosive growth during the 1990s prevented the company from putting enough resources into developing a solid plan for the notebook market. Dell recently hired several executives to redesign the company's notebook strategy.

Management, Dell Inc., DELL, Financial Analysis Software, Strategic Planning, Company Profile

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White House: a computer nerdville: two mavens try to bring Executive Offices into the age of electronics

Article Abstract:

Bill Clinton's vision of the nation's future incorporates an emphasis on high technology, and Andrew Aultz and Bill Krause are charged with the task of bringing the White House's telephones and computer systems into a consistent relationship with this vision. The job is made more difficult because of budget constraints. Some of the White House's arrangements seem archaic, with many phone calls being connected manually by operators who plug cords into a switchboard and with 21 computer networks that use different sorts of equipment and cannot talk to each other. The Clinton Administration would like more emphasis on technology to speed reaction times and deal directly with the public. The President would prefer to have his message delivered as he presents it, not filtered through the news media.

United States, Housing, Telecommunications systems, Political aspects, Presidents, Presidents (Government), White House, National Government

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