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Tracy Kidder's Bestseller Shines Light on Tech Design Risks

4/16/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Tracy Kidder, a freelance writer, authored The Soul of a New Machine about Data General's Eagle minicomputer.
He embedded himself in the design team to gather material.
The book was published in 1981.
The book became a bestseller.
The book highlighted the risks and advantages of adopting programmable logic devices (PALs) and influenced design choices in the electronics industry.

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Story summary

Tracy Kidder, a freelance writer, authored The Soul of a New Machine about Data General's Eagle minicomputer.
He embedded himself in the design team to gather material.
The book was published in 1981.
The book became a bestseller.
The book highlighted the risks and advantages of adopting programmable logic devices (PALs) and influenced design choices in the electronics industry.