The Future of Statistical Computing on Desktop Computers

A class of computing devices known as desktop computers has emerged over the last several years.The International Data Corporation (McGovern 1980) estimates that the number of desktop computers is increasing by approximately 53,000 each month.Because of the projected widespread use of desktop computers and anticipated improvements in hardware, the potential for impressive statistical computing on these devices is exciting.Two features of desktop computers will be particularly important for those doing statistical analyses: (a) the ease-of-use of the computers, and (b) their extensive graphics capabilities.The author suggests that sophisticated statistical software will be available in the near future on many different models of desktop computers. Indeed, several of the manufacturers provide high-quality software at the present time.The implications for statisticians of a rapid growth rate for desktop computers are discussed for data analysis, software development, graphics, and instructional usage.