title: The New Renaissance: Computers and the Next Level of Civilization
author:  Douglas S. Robertson 
description: Douglas Robertson knows perfectly well that trying to predict the future is difficult enough at any time. In a period of extreme technological change, with great social change fast on its heels, accurate prediction is a dice toss at best. But that doesn't stop him from trying to convey the scope of changes coming.
zlib_text: Gerard O’ReganGiants of Computing2013A Compendium of Select, Pivotal
  Pioneers10.1007/978-1-4471-5340-5_1© Springer-Verlag London 2013
  
  # 1\. Background
  
  Gerard O’Regan1
  
  (1)
  
  SQC Consulting, Mallow, Cork, Ireland
  
  Abstract
  
  Computers are an integral part of modern society and new technology has
  transformed the world. Communication today may be conducted using text
  messaging, email, mobile phones and video calls over the Internet using Skype.
  In the past, communication involved writing letters, sending telegrams or
  using the home telephones. Today, communication is instantaneous between
  people, and the new technology has transformed the world into a global
  village. The developments in computers and information technology have allowed
  business to be conducted in a global market.
  
  ## 1.1 Introduction
  
  Computers are an integral part of modern society and new technology has
  transformed the world. Communication today may be conducted using text
  messaging, email, mobile phones and video calls