In a paper world, the capacity for data retrieval and manipulation is limited by the sheer difficulty and cost of storing and locating large numbers of paper files. This inconvenience functions as a mechanism whereby the system forgets past information, a mechanism similar to the way human beings forget. As a result, data is kept longer and longer. The authors argue that we are, in fact, creating a new threat to privacy, and the apparatus is being put into place for a complete surveillance society. Such systemic lack of forgetfulness is likely to hamper the ability of individuals to start over with a clean slate.
Companies are subject to periodic, radical, competence-destroying innovation.
Allen defines problem framing as the basic set of assumptions about what problem a technology is trying to solve. There are many different potential roles for computer professionals in the problem-framing process. These include the role of entrepreneur, technology expert, investment expert, potential supplier and product developer, end-user representative, media expert, journalist, and researcher. Industry problem framing changes over time. For example, the handheld industry in the 1990's developed in three distinct periods and problem frames.