thrlihjc, <'ulif.Several translation procedures for the conversion of decision tables to programs ore presented ond then evaluated in terms of storage requirements, execution time and compile time. The procedures are valuable as hand-coding guides or as algorithms for a compiler. Both limited-entry and extendedentry tables ore analyzed. In addition to toble anolysis, the noture of table-oriented progromming languages ond feotures is discussed. It is presumed that the reoder is familiar with the nature of decision tables and conventionol definitions.

IDEA, a computer program for Inductive Data Exploration and Analysis, is operational under SDC's 0-32 time-sharing system. Using IDEA, a researcher, through on-line interaction with his data, is able to explore various ways of accounting for relationships that exist among his measurements. Instead of conventional poly-nominal regression coefficients, IDEA represents these relationships as decision trees whose form, shape, depth and so on are determined by the user from his data, using unique IDEA heuristics to guide him. Three case studies are reported in which IDEA is contrasted with discriminant analysis. A summary is made of a preliminary study using artificial data of the effect of measurement error on IDEA analysis. OCT)DEA, a system of computer programs for 364

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Early experiences with Web-based groupware point to new collaboration opportunities within and between organizations. We report the results of a study of more than 100 organizations that have used Web-based groupware to understand better how they are using it and what advantages and disadvantages they have experienced. We then use these data to develop a framework for analyzing and assessing the fit of groupware systems to organizational needs. We close with a discussion of the evolution and future of groupware.

In this article the author urges a prudent and decentralized approach to the question of the design and desirability of computerized community information utilities. Before accepting the inevitability and desirability of this or any technology, we should: (1) be sure of the feasibility (internally and externally) of what is proposed; (2) project and perhaps wait for changes in complementary techniques; (3) evaluate current and projected supplementary techniques; (4) establish the existence of demand for what is proposed; (5) take steps to involve a representative group of ultimate users in systems design, and (6) carefully think through possible side effects on man and his world view. Current proposals for community information utilities are examined in this framework, and the conclusion is drawn that society is not yet in a position to justify either the construction of an information utility in a prototype community or the acceptance of a policy in favor of its widespread implementation.