eugene@eos.UUCP (Eugene Miya) (03/30/89)
Well time to support some real science. Last evening, the Bay Area Local Group held our first meeting on the ever popular topic of "Visualization." Well, perhaps not so popular. So far I have fielded three phone calls saying 1) how much they liked the meeting, but 2) how much they hated the "entertainment" aspect of presentation. These were scientists (not CS people) end users. They said they got a bit tired of the music and media blitz from a certain site I won't mention. The common complaint was that it went beyond the science. So what I am announcing, is the formation of our third Technical Interest Group in (hum) Scientific Data Display (TIGSV). Julian gave the go-ahead, and I agreed to do some preliminary planning. The plan is for end-users of systems to collectively provide input to steer the next generation of systems for visualization to local (read: Silicon Valley) based companies. Hopefully away from the, entertainment and artisy glitz, to useful next generation systems. And hopefully, they will listen. It's the next generation of systems which are seen as important. The requirement: demonstrated interest in the display of scientific imagery. At least for 1 year. We ask that participants be a members of Bay Area ACM/SIGGRAPH. In the past (TIGPE), we have gotten limited corporate sponsorship for some of our meetings (resources, not cash). Hopefully, we will find an adequate meeting place during the next month: adequate: not an auditorium large table for 30-40 people. Perhaps the TechMart, or maybe a large meeting room in the ShoreLine area. It will be an informal series of meetings for users to talk about their real requirements and for manufacturers to listen and provide feedback [that's too expensive!]. We hope to meet more or less quarterly. Too frequently: burnout. Too less, sub-critical mass. The meetings should be informal, based on the ANSI model, individuals not just representatives of companies. So each participant should come for critical discussion. We will try to provide A-V as necessary, high B/W telecom, and at least a written paragraph describing background, requirements, etc. The point is interaction, trail, common interests outside of a setting of work. I am posting for general information because people have asked for general informnation in the past (just to be aware), and sometimes a few people DO catch planes to attend some of our local group meetings (you still have to be a BA member). More details to follow, as soon as they gel. Local volunteers and contributions appreciated. Another gross generalization from --eugene miya, NASA Ames Research Center, eugene@aurora.arc.nasa.gov Lame Duck Prez, Bay Area ACM/SIGGRAPH resident cynic at the Rock of Ages Home for Retired Hackers: "Mailers?! HA!", "If my mail does not reach you, please accept my apology." Live free or die.