Summary of 1976 Independent Research on Engineer Oriented Remote Computing,

The usefulness of computers in solving scientific problems is a function of the ease with which users can communicate with existing hardware and software. This research is aimed at improving such man-computer communication. Specifically, a computer system has been designed and partially implemented which will provide a software interface between users, possibly inexperienced in computer processing techniques, and available programs and analysis systems. This system, denoted as ASSIST (A Scientific Software Interface System for Terminal-users), aids users in accessing and utilizing existing applications software from remote terminals. The system provides three basic functions. It helps users find programs relevant to their problems; it assists them in preparing required input data; and it aids in the actual submittal of programs and data for computer processing. In addition, the system monitors usage of the facilities and provides information for aiding management in making decisions for ensuring the efficient and proper use of available computer resources. The basic approach has been to design a language which programmers can use to describe program characteristics (function, input format, submittal requirements, etc.).