Grace Hopper

Quotes are word for word from the source.

• Define the problem

  “We need to define the problem instead of the procedures.”

  Our noteHopper discusses the need for better data-processing language structures.

• Overcoming skepticism

  “I had a running compiler and nobody would touch it. ... they carefully told me, computers could only do arithmetic; they could not do programs.”

  Our noteHopper recalls the early resistance to her invention of the compiler.

• Future focus

  “I've always been more interested in the future than in the past.”

  Our noteHopper reflects on her personal outlook and career interests.

• Parallel systems

  “They'd do much better to build a system of computers and have them operate in parallel. We'd get much more done, faster.”

  Our noteHopper explains why multiple smaller units are better than one giant machine.

• Resisting status quo

  “Humans are allergic to change. They love to say, "We've always done it this way." I try to fight that.”

  Our noteHopper discusses the human tendency to resist new methods.

• Human intelligence

  “A human must turn information into intelligence or knowledge. We've tended to forget that no computer will ever ask a new question.”

  Our noteHopper emphasizes the human role in processing information.

• Management vs leadership

  “You manage things, you lead people. We went overboard on management and forgot about leadership.”

  Our noteHopper distinguishes between managing resources and leading individuals.