Calm Computing

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Definition

Calm computing is a state of technological maturity where a user's primary task is not computing, but where computing augments and brings relevant information to the experience. Rather than focusing on computing and data, calm computing places emphasis on people and tasks.

The terms "calm computing" and "calm technology" were coined by PARC Researcher Mark Weiser in reaction to the increasing complexities that information technologies were creating. He felt that the promise of computing systems was that they might "simplify complexities, not introduce new ones".[1]

Weiser believed that ubiquitous computing would lead to an era of "calm technology," in which technology, rather than panicking us, will help us focus on what is really important to us". [2] Weiser felt that calm technology would appear when needed and recede into the background when finished with.

References

  1. Begole, Bo. Ubiquitous Computing for Business. FT Press, 2011. Pg. 12.
  2. Want, Roy. A Ubiquitous Life. Bio of Mark Weiser. http://www-sul.stanford.edu/weiser/Bio.html Accessed Jul 2011.