Specific research programme: information technologies (1994-1998)

The purpose of this proposal for a decision is to establish a specific RTD and demonstration programme in the field of information technologies for the period 1994-1998. - Amount deemed necessary: ECU 1,911 million. - General objective of the programme: to help improve the quality of life and the competitiveness of all industry in Europe, help create an information infrastructure in Europe, strengthen the scientific and technological base of European industry and promote preparation and validation activities with a view to standardisation. Main fields covered by the programme: - support technologies: . software technologies . technologies designed for IT components and sub-systems . multimedia technologies - long-term research - targeted bundles of activity: . initiative of open microprocessor systems . calculation and high-performance networks . technologies designed for enterprise processes . integration in manufacture. Participation in the programme is open, with financial support from the Community, to all legal entities established in the Community or in an associated country following an agreement with the said third country, and to the Joint Research Centre. The programme will be implemented through shared cost actions, concerted actions, measures to promote standardisation and accompanying measures relating to international cooperation, the dissemination of results and the training of researchers and users. The Commission is authorised to start negotiations with a view to concluding international agreements with third European countries, in order to associate them with all or part of the programme.�