Worldwide communications and information systems

The challenges facing providers of global communication and information systems are discussed. Globe-girdling systems are compared to more confined systems. Unique facets of global systems are illustrated using IBM's worldwide information system as an example of an integrated enterprise network. Progress is sketched in other uses, including travel reservation, banking and finance, military, research and education. It is concluded that global systems' evolution can be predicted, in large measure, from prior progress in shorter-reach applications.<
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