Communications of the ACM
Communications of the ACM (CACM) is the flagship publication of the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the world's largest educational and scientific computing society. Here's a detailed overview:
History
- Communications of the ACM was first published in January 1958, making it one of the oldest and most prestigious journals in the field of computing.
- It was initially intended to provide a platform for ACM members to share technical information, discuss computing science, and policy issues.
- Over the years, it has evolved from a primarily news and technical journal to a more scholarly publication that includes peer-reviewed articles, research, and opinion pieces.
Content and Focus
- The journal covers a wide array of topics related to computer science and information technology, including theoretical computer science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, computer graphics, and the societal impacts of computing.
- It features:
- Technical articles
- Research highlights
- Opinion pieces and editorials
- News articles
- Book reviews
- Columns from notable figures in the field
- Communications of the ACM is known for its balance between accessible, general-interest articles and more specialized, technical content.
Editorial Process
- Articles are peer-reviewed to ensure high quality and relevance.
- The editorial board is composed of distinguished academics and professionals in the computing field.
- Submissions are invited from both members and non-members of the ACM, though membership might offer some benefits regarding publication.
Impact and Recognition
- It is widely recognized as a leading source of information in the computing community, often cited in academic and professional circles.
- Its articles have influenced policy, education, and research directions in computing.
- The journal has been recognized with several awards for its contributions to the literature of computing.
Access and Distribution
- It is available in both print and digital formats, with the digital version accessible through the ACM Digital Library.
- Subscription is available to both members and non-members, though members receive it as part of their membership benefits.
Notable Features
- The "Last Byte" section often contains thought-provoking or humorous content related to computing.
- There is also a section called "Viewpoints" where leaders in the field share their opinions on current issues and future directions in computing.
Sources
Related Topics