Two software leaders join forces

Article Abstract:

Lotus Development Corp and WordPerfect Corp announce they are working together to develop a common user interface for their products. Lotus' Lotus 1-2-3/G and WordPerfect 5.1 will run under OS/2 Presentation Manager and will allow users of the programs to share command structures, insert spreadsheet data directly into WordPerfect documents and create dynamic links so any data changed in one file will be changed in any linked file. The agreement between the companies is part of an industry trend that sees companies making alliances and taking sides on emerging office computing standards. Developers at Lotus and WordPerfect must strike a balance between retaining familiar commands for the millions of seasoned users and redesigning the software to fully utilize the graphical user interface and mouse capabilities.

Word processing software, WordPerfect Corp., GUI, Graphical user interfaces, column, User interfaces (Computers), Cooperative Agreements, OS/2, OS/2 (Operating system), User interface, WordPerfect 5.1 (Word processing software), Lotus 1-2-3/G (Spreadsheet software)

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A software alliance is expected; a Lotus-Adobe deal may alter the computer print 'front wars.' (Lotus Development Corp. and Adobe Systems Inc. announce an alliance regarding computer fonts)

Article Abstract:

Lotus Development Corp and Adobe Systems Inc announce that the Adobe font technology will be included in the Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows spreadsheet program. Industry observers note that the latest move by Lotus and Adobe is part of a long, protracted battle in the computer software industry over what fonts should become the standard. Adobe, which helped create the desktop publishing market in 1985 with its PostScript language, was founded with substantial investment from Apple Computer Inc, but Apple has since made an agreement with Microsoft Corp in developing a competing technology known as TrueType. The recent agreement between Adobe and Lotus will inhibit Microsoft from making the TrueType font the exclusive font for the Microsoft Windows 3.0 graphical user interface.

Adobe Systems Inc., ADBE, Market share, Computer fonts, Strategic Planning, Competition, Marketing Strategy, Computer Software Industry, Cooperation, Font Package, Lotus 1-2-3 for Windows (Spreadsheet software)

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Stunning spreadsheet, minus keyboard: proof of the power - and potential - of pen-based computers

Article Abstract:

Dan Bricklin, known for his work on the original Visicalc spreadsheet, introduced a new spreadsheet program at the Demo 92 computer conference. The spreadsheet, which is called At Hand, is scheduled for delivery in 2nd qtr 1992. Its price is expected to be $295. At Hand is the first major program to be specifically designed for use on portable computers with pen-based input. Bricklin, who is now a vice president at Slate Corp, Phoenix, AZ, hopes that At Hand will be a repeat of the spectacular success that characterized the Visicalc program and the Apple II microcomputer. Visicalc showed that a good software package can generate a demand for the hardware that runs it.

Management, Column, Pen-based computers, Software Packages, Pen-Based I/O, Slate Corp., At Hand (Spreadsheet software), Bricklin, Dan

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