New metaphors for understanding the new machines

Abstract

Though frequently misunderstood and dismissed as irrelevant ornamentation, metaphors are useful tools for writers in the computer industry. Lletaphors are especially useful for presenting information about new technologies because they help readers grasp whole concepts immediately and because they illuminate concepts that are difficult to communicate otherwise. It is important to distinguish this use of metaphors from their use in literature and advertisement. Participants in the workshop will follow procedures for investigating the suitability of several metaphors. They will analyze the power and appropriateness of metaphors currently used in the computer industry by applying seven criteria: Is the metaphor useful? understood? close? illuminating? acceptable? economical? memorable?.