Alan Kay (VPRI Co-founder) – CHI 2016 Plenary (May 2016)


Chapters

00:00:04 Visions for the Future of Computing
00:12:13 Exploring Engelbart's Insights on Organizational Improvement, Long-Term Innovation, and
00:17:50 Non-profit Initiatives and Technological Advancement
00:23:04 60s Research and the Future of Computing
00:29:28 Engineering vs. Art: Exploring the Balance in Technological Innovation
00:35:35 Collaboration and Innovation: The Infosys Approach
00:38:32 Tools for Innovation and Learning in the Digital Age
00:47:02 Training Wheels as a Horrible User Interface

Abstract



“Visionary Perspectives on Computing: A Conversation with Alan Kay and Vishal Sikka”

In a pivotal conversation at “CHI for Good,” moderated by Joe Fish Kay, computing visionaries Alan Kay and Vishal Sikka offer profound insights into the future of computing, emphasizing the essential roles of collaboration, learning tools, and visionary thinking. Held during CHI 2016, the discussion centered around “CHI for Good.” Panelists Allison “Joe Fish Kay,” Vishal Sikka, and Alan Kay were introduced as individuals who have significantly impacted the computing field and made positive societal contributions. Alan Kay, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to mobile computing and graphical user interfaces, critiques the current focus on incremental improvements and calls for a more visionary approach that values the legacies of pioneers like Doug Engelbart. Vishal Sikka, CEO of Infosys, underscores the transformative potential of interfaces for teamwork and knowledge sharing. This dialogue not only sheds light on the current state and future of computing but also delves into broader societal issues and the vital interplay between technology, education, and human advancement.

Comprehensive Article:

Introduction to the Conversation:

A recent conversation at “CHI for Good” brought together two influential figures in computing: Alan Kay, a pioneer in the field, and Vishal Sikka, CEO of Infosys. Moderated by Joe Fish Kay, the discussion aimed to shed light on the future of computing, exploring both imminent and distant horizons. Vishal Sikka is widely recognized as one of the world’s top CEOs and is known for his industry leadership roles and research in artificial intelligence.

Visionary Perspectives on Computing:

The conversation at “CHI for Good” with Alan Kay and Vishal Sikka revolved around several key themes that are vital for the advancement of computing. Alan Kay, drawing from the legacy of Doug Engelbart, criticized the current trend in computing which focuses on incremental improvements rather than visionary thinking. He emphasized the need for a shift towards more ambitious, pioneering approaches in the field. Complementing Kay’s perspective, Vishal Sikka discussed the untapped potential of collaboration tools in enhancing teamwork and fostering innovation. He envisioned interfaces that could revolutionize how we work and collaborate, thus advancing the field significantly. The session concluded with a call for a renewed focus on these critical aspects to shape the future of computing for societal benefit.

The Legacy of Engelbart and the Role of Non-Profits:

The conversation paid homage to the visionary work of Doug Engelbart, stressing the importance of addressing fundamental issues in computing. Engelbart’s contributions, often underappreciated, set the foundation for a mature approach in human-computer interaction. Sikka’s discussion on collaboration and learning tools supported this central theme, emphasizing their potential in driving innovation. Non-profit organizations like Infosys Foundation and Y Combinator Research, through their commitment to the general good and scientific research, play a crucial role in fostering a broader and more inclusive approach to technological advancement. These entities, along with the input of figures like N. R. Narayana Murthy, Sudha Murthy, and Sam Altman, illustrate the significance of non-profit efforts in shaping the future of computing.

The Collaborative Spirit of Early Computing Research:

Reflecting on the rich collaborative environment of early computing research, Kay highlighted the role of universities, government think tanks, and early-stage companies in fostering innovation. He contrasted this with the limitations of current top-down management approaches and emphasized the need for interfaces that enhance human perception and understanding.

The Contemporary State of Research and Innovation:

Sikka critiqued the current focus on “best practices” in the services industry, advocating for a shift towards exploring new methodologies and paradigms. This approach, he argued, is vital for embracing innovation and recognizing the inherent value of learning from failures.



The conversation underscored the critical roles of collaboration, learning tools, and visionary thinking in shaping the future of computing. It highlighted the necessity to address fundamental issues in human-computer interaction and the importance of looking beyond incremental improvements. The discussion also emphasized the role of non-profits and research organizations in fostering innovation and advancing scientific research. Ultimately, it called for a balanced approach that considers both immediate business objectives and long-term societal challenges, acknowledging the interconnectedness of technology, education, and human advancement.

Supplemental Information:

The early visionaries of computing, like Alan Kay, were driven by the ideal to create interactive tools for global intellectual advancement. The Human Advancement Research Community, founded by Sam Altman, exemplifies this spirit, working on global challenges with a focus on the public good. Research at the principal investigator level in the 1960s, especially at PARC, allowed for a diversity of perspectives and explorations of future possibilities.

The computing community of the 1960s, consisting of universities, government think tanks, and research groups, was marked by collaboration and innovation. Xerox PARC played a key role in refining ARPA-funded research, focusing on practical solutions to computing challenges. Concerns about VC-funded startups potentially hindering the resolution of larger societal issues were raised, emphasizing the need for a broader perspective.

Kay and Sikka highlighted the balance between art and engineering in computing, citing examples like Michelangelo and Ivan Sutherland to demonstrate the fusion of creativity and technical prowess. They discussed the significance of collaborative learning and innovation, with Sikka’s foundations and startups emphasizing this approach. Infosys’ investment in startups and its innovation-centric culture underscore the company’s commitment to continuous improvement and experimentation.

In addressing the challenges of creating innovative practices in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), the speakers noted the limitations of current tools and practices. They pointed out that simple yet crucial improvements, such as effective collaboration features and undo functionalities, are often overlooked in current technologies. The conversation also touched upon the importance of cultural learning and the challenges of teaching in the modern world, highlighting the need for special interfaces that adapt to our evolving learning methods and enhance our ability to comprehend complex ideas.

Concluding the discussion, the speakers reflected on the enduring significance of classic HCI research and its relevance in today’s technological landscape. They emphasized the potential of technology to enhance human abilities and encourage individuality, advocating for user interfaces that empower rather than restrict users. The metaphor of training wheels was used to illustrate the need for interfaces that allow for exploration and expression of individuality.

The conversation between Alan Kay and Vishal Sikka at “CHI for Good” provided a comprehensive perspective on the past, present, and future of computing. It emphasized the critical roles of visionary thinking, collaboration, and innovative learning tools in advancing the field and addressing broader societal challenges. This dialogue serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of technology, education, and human advancement, calling for a balanced approach that values both immediate objectives and long-term societal benefits.


Notes by: crash_function