The technology of intelligently filtering out useless data, and seeking necessary information may be the single most important application for advancing both human and network communications. A first generation of such gathering/filtering process incorporates a "real" intelligent agent which goes out on orders of its principal, and executes certain transactions.

While the idea of an intelligent agent is unclear, what is less clear still is how agent technology, whatever form it takes, will be deployed nationally and on a worldwide basis. Complex issues involving technology application and uptake rates, demand, information validity, human psychology, privacy and security must be addressed.

Defining the Intelligent Agent: What is it Today, and What will it Be Tomorrow?
Discussants:

• Jim Daniell, Director of Business Communications Services, AT&T
• Glenn Edens, Researcher, Interval Research, a Paul Allen Company
• Jessica J. Josephson, CITI Affiliated Research Fellow
• Ben Schneiderman, Professor, University of Maryland, Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory

Implementation: What are the Political, Social, Cultural, Privacy, Business Security, and National Security Rela ted Questions that Must Be Adressed?
Discussants:

• Robert Cohen, Broadband Economist, Advisor to NII Task Force
• Hal Josephson, CEO & President, Interactive Media Festival
• Mike Liebhold, Vice President, Technology, Times Mirror

How will Intelligent Agents be used by the Entertainment, Information, and Publishing Businesses Globally? And How Might People Change as a Result?
Discussants:

• Susan Deneholtz, Vice President, Dunn & Bradstreet
• Edward D. Horowitz, CEO, Viacom In teractive Media
• Katherine Kreech, Vice President, Hearst Online Services

The Economic Foundation of Intelligent Agent Services: Who Pays?
Discussants:

• R.J. Goldberg, Stanford University
• Craig Gugel, Senior Vice President, New Media, BS B
• Richard Shaffer, Founder, Technologic Partners
• Stephen L. Tomlin, Vice President and General Manager, Interactive Technology, QVC

Reality Check: When, Where, and How - Timing, Social Theories...
Discussants:

• Charles Kreitzberg, President, Cognetics Corp.
• Ben Schneiderman, Professor, University of Maryland, Human-Computer Interaction Laboratory