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The article focuses on the 1969 Fall Joint Computer Conference. The theme of the Joint Conference is intended to reflect the transition from the sixties, during which many revolutionary concepts of technology in hardware and software have been developed, to the seventies when these concepts will be implemented and extended with even greater accomplishments in computing technology and applications involving all phases of the society. Sessions are offered in hardware, software, and hybrid technology and applications covering recent advances of interest to the business, legislative medical, social, education and communications fields, as well as to computer professionals. The effort to produce both national and international standards for the data processing industry got off to an unheralded start in 1960s. During the past decade the slowness of the effort rather than its results seemed to be more in evidence. But the impetus and the motivation for thoughtful standardization has increased by a combination of the recognition of its need and potential usefulness to users, government action, and the sheer momentum produced by the growing weight of the large standardization organization.

This article analyzes the pros and cons of patenting computer programs in the U.S. A proposed set of guidelines that would aid patent examiners in reviewing applications for computer program patents has raised opposition in Washington D.C. The consensus in the patent office is that the guidelines are inadequate. The House Judiciary Committee plans to hold hearings this year on an entire revamping of the patent laws in the U.S. Bell Laboratories is supporting the program patents, but most manufacturers remain solidly against patenting programs. Some software firms would like to receive program patents; however, the resistance shown by the Patent Office to patent computer programs is currently blocking the way.