Gestalt programming
Douglas T. Ross · 1956
Synopsis: In any human endeavor there are three major phases: conception, expression, and execution. Gestalt programming is an attempt to make these three phases as nearly identical to each other as possible with respect to computer programming. In this paper the word Gestalt is used to mean a concept of a task to be performed by a computer. In a Gestalt system of programming, the Gestalt, or idea, is expressed simply and unambiguously in a special language, rather than through the laborious assembling of machine codes, pseudocodes, subroutines, etc. Using a Gestalt system, the expression itself in effect ties together integrated units of computer behavior, which function singly or in interrelation, to achieve the desired effect. The purpose of a Gestalt system is to facilitate the transmission of general ideas as in a conversation, between a human and a computer, so that the maximum use of their respective capabilities can be made.