Editorial Pointers

Ubiquitous computing is intangible—physically, figuratively, literally. In the continuing evolution of computing technologies we’re not supposed to see or sense, technical advances have been swift, but the surface is barely scuffed.

Many challenges and obstacles still stand between us and the promise of living and working environments embedded with computing devices in a seamless, invisible way. This month’s special section explores how far ubiquitous computing has come and what lies ahead in the next decade. Guest editors Kalle Lyytinen and Youngjin Yoo point out that true ubiquitous computing involves devices embedded transparently in our physical and social movements, integrating both mobile and pervasive computing. The articles they’ve assembled depict some of the primary issues in the field, particularly the effect of ubicomp on knowledge work and organization; on group dynamics and behavior; and on potential business opportunities.

Among the other topics we examine this month is Upkar Varshney’s observations on multicasting over wireless networks and methods to maintain the participation of mobile users. Aviel Rubin wonders whether even leading-edge technology has a role in remote electronic voting. Consumer trust, a prime component in any successful e-business venture, plays an equally compelling role in dealings with other consumers. Troy Strader and Sridhar Ramaswami study the dynamics of trust in consumer-to-consumer, e-business relationships.

As we close another year, we offer sincere thanks to all those who helped make the last 12 issues so memorable and rewarding. We are forever grateful to our international network of authors, guest editors, and reviewers, whose steadfast dedication helps create, assess, and strengthen the editorial we present each month. We are already committed to another challenging and informative year ahead. Some of the topics we’re exploring include wireless networking security, P2P computing, program compaction techniques, service-oriented computing, and digital rights management (see www.acm.org/cacm for a complete 2003 editorial calendar).

As always, we are indebted to the reader feedback received throughout the year. We continue to take our cues from your comments and, hopefully, better direct our efforts to your needs. Wishing you health and much happiness in the new year,

Diana Crawford
Editor