THE EVALUATION OF TECHNIQUES AND DEVICES AS APPLIED TO PROBLEM SOLVING

Abstract

The problem of forecasting technological change is investigated. Machines and computer programs having 'problem solving' capabilities are examined to determine their usefulness in aiding or replacing the human forecaster. The literature on human problem solving was also reviewed. The following conclusions were reached: (1) the nature of the forecasting problem precludes the use of computer-type problem solvers developed to date, and (2) the application of information science techniques, namely: descriptors representing technological concepts, the forces acting to change the technology and the laws governing the change, appear to offer the most promise in assisting the human forecaster. Accordingly, a quasimathematical model was developed using matrix notation to describe a technology. An example of a forecast of computer technology made several years ago is included.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 01, 1965
Accession Number
AD0614228

Entities

People

  • David Loev
  • Donald F. Blumberg
  • J. F. White Jr.
  • Morris Rubinoff

Organizations

  • Moore School of Electrical Engineering

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Advanced Electronics
  • Biomedical
  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Cognition
  • Concept Formation
  • Information Processing
  • Information Retrieval
  • Information Science
  • Judgment
  • Language
  • Materials
  • Mathematical Models
  • New York
  • Personality
  • Personnel Management
  • Probability
  • Probability Distributions
  • Psychology
  • Social Psychology
  • Thinking

Readers

  • Atmospheric Science/Meteorology
  • Linear Algebra
  • Systems Analysis and Design