ABSTRACT
This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book aims to present a series of case studies showing how art and science interact in practice. The case studies all deal with the use of microcomputers for the management of human settlements in developing countries. The book argues that microcomputers are appropriate technology for human settlements management in developing countries. There is a need for training and expert advice; but the idea of microcomputers is to let people take responsibility for their own computing needs without having to rely on a specialist intermediary. The book focuses on microcomputers, with a view to showing how much can actually be done with appropriate technology, and looks at encouraging people to leant as much as they can from the experience of others.
