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Erring on the side of you-manity

Article Abstract:

The need to use human resources effectively is illustrated by the failure of London Ambulance's new computer system, partly due to lack of training, and lack of understanding about how employees interact with new technology. Only some 33% of United Kingdom private and public concerns make good use of human factors, according to Professor John Parnaby, managing director at Lucas Applied Technology. Organizations which state that their greatest assets are their employees are not sincere if they also see improved performance in terms of cutting the number of their employees, according to Professor Sylvia Shimmin from Lancashire University's behaviour in organizations department.

Social aspects, Technological innovations, Human capital

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Designs for a material life

Article Abstract:

Art and design companies are being called upon to develop sustainable consumer products to minimize environmental damage. Products should be recyclable and use less energy to produce, with energy consumption having to fall to 5% of existing levels to meet the demands of the world's growing population, say some academics. Internationally-acclaimed British designers are surprisingly reluctant to develop sustainable products. Sweden has introduced laws to encourage sustainability, such as making automobile producers responsible for taking back car expired batteries and tyres.

International aspects, Environmental aspects, Design and construction, Product development, New products, Product introduction, Environmental protection

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The world according to Gates

Article Abstract:

Microsoft chief executive, Bill Gates, faces legal action in the US but has taken time to talk to students at the London Business School, England. He sees students as representing the future, and as important in spreading a 'web lifestyle' throughout companies. Younger people tend to be more at ease with new developments in technology, argues Gates. He foresees computers that can decipher handwriting. His views on companies making more information available to employees were supported by some of the students present.

Officials and employees, Computer software industry, Software industry, Microsoft Corp., Gates, Bill, MSFT

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