A Flexible ‘Software Erector Set’ for Mac Users

I came dangerously close to not finishing this column. That’s because I couldn’t tear myself away from Apple Computer’s newest program for the Macintosh. “HyperCard,” introduced Aug. 11 at the MacWorld Expo in Boston, is one of the most intriguing programs I have ever used.

At its most basic level, HyperCard is a database management program that allows users to store and organize information. But calling HyperCard a database program is like calling the Pacific a place to swim.

Apple’s Bill Atkinson, who created HyperCard, describes the product as a “software erector set.” It’s an information organizer that is so flexible it can be used, even by novices, to create new software programs. In a sense, it is a programmable program. And it comes with a new programming language called HyperTalk.

For many Macintosh users, HyperCard is a dream come true. That’s because the Mac has been difficult to program. Unlike the IBM PC, the Macintosh does not allow for batch files, stored instructions that simplify many of the machine’s functions. And whereas the programming language BASIC is easy to use with the PC, it can be a challenge on the Mac. Apple estimates that it takes about a year for an experienced programmer to be comfortable with the Mac.

But HyperCard makes it easier for more people--not just professional programmers--to create some kinds of customized software applications. As Atkinson puts it, HyperCard empowers users to control their own information.

Creating software will no longer be the exclusive domain of professional programmers, or “bit slingers” as Atkinson calls them. Artists, authors and other so-called knowledge workers will be able to create the programs they need to share their information. This technology will be especially important as large data retrieval devices, such as advanced forms of compact disc players, make it possible for computer users to access enormous amounts of data.

HyperCard is easier to use than most languages, but I don’t anticipate the day when every computer user is a programmer. Most people are content to let other people design their programs. What we will see, however, is a larger corps of people creating programs for use by colleagues. Atkinson is encouraging sophisticated users to create HyperCard programs that can be distributed to others within an organization, shared as part of public domain software libraries or sold through the normal software distribution channels.

HyperCard presents information on the screen in “cards” modeled after the 3 x 5 cards familiar to students and researchers. Each HyperCard document, or set of cards, is referred to as a “stack.” A stack is similar to a computer program. In addition to holding data, stacks include the program instructions to manipulate the data.

Stacks also can carry out mathematical equations and display pictures. HyperCard comes complete with its own painting features, similar to MacPaint, which also was written by Atkinson.

HyperCard comes with several free stacks. Even if you don’t do any programming, you’ll be able to use HyperCard as a personal calendar and address, phone and date book, as well as to create a “to do” list and a filing system for graphic images. But that’s only the start. HyperCard users can modify these stacks to suit their own needs.

I’m far from an expert, but after a couple of days with HyperCard I was able to create my own personal information program with a built-in memo pad, telephone dialer and address book. My address book can even display pictures, including photographs that are scanned into the Mac. I wouldn’t even have attempted such a project on an IBM PC, even though I have far more experience with that machine.

With HyperCard, however, the job was easy. The basic tools, including the phone dialer and the routines for sorting and displaying information, are built right into HyperCard. I created the first version of my program by modifying one that is included with the package. The hardest part of my job was determining what features I wanted. The next hardest task was deciding that “enough is enough” and leaving it alone.

The program comes with a 200-page manual--enough to get you started. But if you’re a serious user, you should buy the Complete HyperCard Handbook by Danny Goodman (Bantam Computer Books, $29.95). The 718-page book contains more information than most people will care to digest, but it is well-organized and well-indexed.

While he was working on the book, Goodman created two of his own stacks that will published this fall by Activision of Mountain View, Calif. “Business Class” is a guide for world travelers. You point to your destination on a world map and get, among other things, travel, customs and currency information about the country.

Goodman’s other program, “Focal Point,” is a sophisticated personal management system that can be used to keep addresses, schedules and financial records. Goodman--who is a writer, not a programmer--says that he long envisioned both programs, but lacked the tools to create them.

The only thing more amazing than HyperCard is its price. Apple will give it away free with all new Macintoshes. Current Mac users can purchase the program for $49.