Cutting Edge Technologies and Microcomputer Applications for Developing Countries

This report covers microcomputer applications in cutting edge technologies for developing countries. For those developing countries with experience in microcomputer use, it provides informartion on important new areas. These include advanced computer concepts, artificial intelligence, computer-aided design and manufacture, applied expert systems, and geographic information systems. For developing countries initiating use of microcomputers, this report can help set priorities by providing awareness of the unique ways that problems in resource assessment, resource utilization, and communication can be approached using newly developed hardware and software. For all developing countries, microcomputers can assist government and industrial planning with extensive guidance on options and outcomes. Microcomputers have a special role in development because they can provide access to new technologies and facilitate the implementation of these technologies. Because of these dual functions in technology and planning, microcomputers can speed the incorporation of science and technology into both government and industrial planning and maximize its benefits. Preparation of this report was coordinated by the Board on Science and Technology for International Development in response to a request from the U. S. Agency for International Development.