The earliest work of the IPTO was to fund research in the time- sharing of computers to make interactive computing available in a way not possible with the batch operated computers common at the time. They conceived of a new form of data network utilizing packet switching technology, building on the work of Paul Baran in the U.S. and Donald W. Davies in the U.K. ARPA awarded a contract to Bolt Beranek and Newman to begin the development of a new form of network. The use of email soon gave rise to a many to many form of communication known as mailing lists. His methodology is of particular importance. He wants to broaden participation in discussions on this issue to include more of those who can make a contribution.
Participation is to be encouraged, but is voluntary.
Those with positive and negative comments are encouraged to toss them in. Participation is to be open-ended. While supporting philosophical discussions, he urges comments on specifics of evaluation as well. Also those with sporatic contributions are urged to contribute as well as those who will participate on a more regular basis. They were interested in the informal communication that an integrated communication system would make possible.