And the technology opens unprecedented new entertainment experiences and opportunities for keeping in touch with parents, children, and friends who may now live across the planet. Information technologies also play an essential role increasing the productivity of the research and innovation process itself. Powerful simulation tools are essential for advances in biology, chemistry, physics, environmental science and many other areas. Our ability to understand how genes actually operate to affect the processes of life depend on our ability to understand the operation of complex molecules. Advances in metallurgy depend on sophisticated simulations of crystal structures.
Weather prediction depends on simulations based on vast data resources.
Engineering advances in the design of complex structures, crash-resistant automobiles, efficient aircraft engines, and many other areas depend on powerful simulations. Economic simulations provide powerful new tools for helping us understand the performance of free economies. Dr. Kennedy outlines the advice of his Committee in testimony presented here today. I have assembled an interagency team to review our options for responding to their advice. Fortunately we are able to build on a foundation of interagency coordination in this area which began with the High Performance Computing and Communication program chartered by the Congress over six years ago.