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Perspective Georgia Tech research will help shape the 21st century's megatrends. By Jane M. Sanders |
Here we are — finally. The year 2000 has arrived. Anticipation fills the air. Opportunities and challenges are everywhere around us. Collectively and individually, we wonder what the 21st century will bring and how we can make valuable contributions to it.
Citing what he believes the century holds in store, Georgia Tech President Wayne Clough recently pointed to several megatrends that present opportunities and challenges for the Institute.
- Technology is ubiquitous.
- Computing is pervasive.
- Internet plus information equals unlimited access.
- Talent is dominant.
- The population is diversified.
- Interdisciplinary is "in."
- Entrepreneurs have the edge.
- The economy is globally networked.
- Research drives innovation.
Georgia Tech must not merely respond to these megatrends, but also use them to its advantage, Clough says.
In this the first issue of Research Horizons in year 2000, we provide evidence that Georgia Tech has already begun its journey on the path that Clough has mapped.
Our cover story on future computing environments hinges on the notion of ubiquitous and aware computing that could improve the quality of life for everyone, particularly senior adults, within the next decade. Researchers from several disciplines have begun a host of communications-related research at the new Broadband Institute Residential Laboratory. The unrivaled computational perception and connectivity tested in this "living laboratory" will certainly result in technological innovations that will dramatically change our everyday lives.
Interdisciplinary is definitely in at Georgia Tech. The concept is fueling the multi-million construction of Tech's largest and most sophisticated research complexes. The state-of-the-art buildings will key on the idea of "research neighborhoods" that promote interaction among scientists and engineers.
Talent, entrepreneurship economic development are evident in our articles on three new, high-tech start-up companies that sprang from Georgia Tech faculty research.
As always, our contents offer information on research that is driving innovation. From defense-related projects to food safety devices to air quality measurements, Georgia Tech researchers are busy shaping the technology of the 21st century.
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Research Horizons GT
Research News GTRI
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