EVENT: - Join Business Week Magazine senior writer Steve Baker for breakfast and a book signing while he discusses "The Numerati," his new book published this month by Houghton-Mifflin Co. In it, Baker describes how computer scientists and applied math experts he calls "numerati" are tracking the digital trails we leave as we work, shop, play, vote, and live. They gather up the reams of data created by using our computers, cell phones, and credit cards and by analyzing the information, they're able to build models of us and predict our behavior. In the short term, such information can enable companies to increase worker productivity, and develop more focused marketing strategies. Ultimately, for better or worse, these practices can affect all facets of our lives. Baker interviewed several Carnegie Mellon computer science faculty for "The Numerati," including social networking expert Kathleen Carley, language technologies guru Jaime Carbonell and data mining expert Artur Dubrowski, as well as members of the faculty at the Tepper School of Business. Their input influenced his book.

WHEN: Baker will begin his talk at 9:30 am, Tues., Sept. 17, 2008. Breakfast will be available beginning at 8:45.

WHERE: 3305 Newell-Simon Hall