Summaries of books about Computers & Technology:
Racing the Beam
The Atari Video Computer System
Nick Montfort|Ian Bogost
The book explores the technical architecture and constraints of the Atari VCS (later known as the Atari 2600) and how these influenced the design and development of its games. It delves into the creative ways programmers overcame the system's limitations to create influential video game classics.
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Cognitive Surplus
Creativity and Generosity in a Connected Age: How Technology Makes Consumers into Collaborators
Clay Shirky
The book explores the impact of digital technology on society, particularly how the internet has transformed passive consumers into active creators and collaborators, leading to an abundance of shared knowledge and collective creativity. It discusses the potential for this "cognitive surplus" to be harnessed for public good, through participatory culture and the collaborative efforts of connected individuals.
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The Folly of Technological Solutionism
Evgeny Morozov
The book critiques the ideology of "solutionism," which posits that all problems can be solved through technology, often ignoring the complexity of social issues. It challenges the assumption that technological innovation always leads to progress, arguing that it can sometimes hinder meaningful engagement and solutions.
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Lean UX
Jeff Gothelf|Josh Seiden
The book presents a methodology that combines the principles of Lean Startup and Agile development with user experience design, advocating for iterative design processes that focus on customer feedback and team collaboration to build better products more efficiently. It emphasizes the importance of creating minimum viable products to test hypotheses, reducing waste, and fostering a culture of experimentation and learning.
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What To Do When Machines Do Everything
How to Get Ahead in a World of AI, Algorithms, Bots, and Big Data
Malcolm Frank|Paul Roehrig|Ben Pring
The book provides insights into how artificial intelligence and automation are transforming the workforce and economy, offering strategies for businesses and individuals to adapt and thrive in this new landscape. It discusses the roles that humans will play, the skills that will be in demand, and how to leverage the opportunities presented by these technological advancements.
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The Loop
How Technology Is Creating a World Without Choices and How to Fight Back
Jacob Ward
The book examines the impact of algorithms on human decision-making, arguing that technology increasingly dictates our choices, from what we watch to how we think. It explores the consequences of this trend and offers strategies for reclaiming autonomy in the face of pervasive data-driven systems.
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UX Strategy
Product Strategy Techniques for Devising Innovative Digital Solutions
Jaime Levy
The book provides a comprehensive guide to creating a user experience (UX) strategy, integrating business viability, technological feasibility, and desirable user experiences. It offers practical techniques and methods for conducting user research, validating product-market fit, and designing digital products that align with overarching business goals.
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Tribe of Hackers Red Team
Tribal Knowledge from the Best in Offensive Cybersecurity
Marcus J. Carey|Jennifer Jin
The book is a compilation of insights and advice from leading cybersecurity experts specializing in offensive tactics, providing readers with a deep dive into red teaming methodologies, tools, and strategies. It features interviews with professionals who share their experiences, techniques, and personal journeys in the field of ethical hacking and penetration testing.
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Fabricated
The New World of 3D Printing
Hod Lipson|Melba Kurman
The book explores the revolutionary impact of 3D printing technology on various industries, manufacturing processes, and society at large. It delves into the potential applications, challenges, and future implications of 3D printing, providing insights into how this technology will transform the way we create and consume products.
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Designing Bots
Creating Conversational Experiences
Amir Shevat
The book provides a comprehensive guide to designing and building effective conversational interfaces, covering principles of bot interaction, platform-specific design strategies, and the nuances of user engagement. It also offers practical insights into the development process, including prototyping, testing, and deploying bots across various messaging platforms.
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