Calm Computing

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Definition

Calm computing is a term coined by Mark Weiser in a "reaction to the increasing complexities that information technologies we're creating. The promise of computing systems was that they would simplify complexities, not introduce new ones".[1] Calm computing is the idea that computers should appear when needed and recede into the background when no longer needed. Calm computing is where the 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.

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" Bio by Roy Want, Xerox PARC.[2]

References

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