Potomac Fever.

The Uniform Computer Information Transaction Act (UCITA) has become law in Maryland. (It already passed in VA. OTE 4/00: Software Legislation). While some cosmetic attempts were made at consumer protection in the MD version, they are without effect. (See www.infoworld.com 4/24/2000 p. 121). "Consumers' remain protected against defective software, but the definition of consumer is so narrow as to exclude all but those using a computer to write a personal letter. Further, the right to disable software products remotely cannot be exercised in 'mass markets', but the definition is so complex it might appear that a copy of Microsoft Office, purchased at a mass-market retail outlet such as Staples, might not be covered." Business Week (4/17/00, p.94) proclaims "This Law Is User-Unfriendly" in its headline referring to UCITA. The article lists a veritable who's who in consumer protection as opponents of the law - including the Federal Trade Commission. There may be hope - in Iowa. The state house has passed a law making the laws of Iowa prevail in any transaction between an Iowa party and a party in a UCITA state. 

(OTE 4/00: Security Remains An Issue) Hats off to Chuck Isaac, the AT&T product manager. Acceptance of customer feedback, and hard work by his staff, have brought the service a long way in a short time. The use of standard and custom reports, both selected and activated from the AT&T web site, has reduced processing time by 70% for one service bureau. Much of the time spent - in data translation, reformatting, and manipulation - has been eliminated. While former AT&T 'strategic alliances' with '800' and '900' service bureaus have focused mostly on price, volume, and exclusivity, this time they are providing meaningful advantages in the area of customer support. For more details, see https://www.iadvantage.att.com/login.jhtml

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