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Considers the material impact of computers and cybernetics in the 1980s.

PurposeThis paper aims to review current research with particular reference to new research and development initiatives.Design/methodology/approachA general review and survey of selected research and development topics is given and some new challenges and applications of future technologies are considered with particular reference to their impact and potential.FindingsThe paper illustrates the multi‐ and trans‐disciplinary nature of studies in cybernetics, systems and management sciences, with a view to further research and development activity.Practical implicationsThe choice of review provides an awareness of current trends in these areas of endeavour.Originality/valueThe reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of current research and development initiatives.

Purpose -This paper aims to review current research and developments with particular reference to new interdisciplinary research and developments. Design/methodology/approach -A general review and survey of selected research and development topics that result from an interdisciplinary approach is given. Findings -The paper illustrates the multi-and trans-disciplinary natures of studies in cybernetics systems and management science with a view to further research and development activity. Practical implications -The choice of reviews provides an awareness of current trends in these areas of endeavour. Originality/value -The reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of current research and development initiatives.

Reports and surveys are given of selected current research and developments in systems and cybernetics. They include: New Applications for Missile Launcher, Second Order Cybernetics, Management Cybernetics, VDU Workstation Safety, Medical Cybernetics, New Image Processing System, Prospects for Conscious Machines.