Specific research programme: information technologies (1994-1998)

The Council adopted a specific programme for research and technological development, including demonstration, in the field of information technologies for the period 1994-1998. - General objectives: to help improve the quality of life and the competitiveness of all industry in Europe; to contribute to the formation of an information infrastructure in Europe; to strengthen the scientific and technological base of European industry; to promote preparation and validation activities leading to standardisation. - Amount deemed necessary ECU 1 911 million. Indicative breakdown by area (in million ecus): - Software technologies: 268 - Technologies for components and subsystems : 487 - Multimedia systems: 153 - Long-term research: 191 - Open microprocessor systems initiative: 172 - High-performance computing and networking: 244 - Technologies for business process: 167 - Integration in manufacturing: 229 Participation in the programme was open, with financial support from the Community, to all legal entities established in the Community or in an associated country, following the conclusion of an agreement with the third country in question, and to the Joint Research Centre. The programme would be implemented through shared-cost actions, concerted actions, measures on standardisation and accompanying measures relating to international cooperation, to the dissemination of results and to training for researchers and users. �