InfoWorld: The Evolution of a Tech Industry Mainstay
For decades, InfoWorld has served as a critical chronicle of the personal computer industry. Described by Edward Mendelson in 1986 as a publication filled with enough gossip, shoptalk, and scandal to interest even those not typically excited by computers, it has evolved from a niche journal into a digital authority on professional technology.
The Origins and Early Years
The publication began its journey in 1978, founded by Jim Warren under the original name The Intelligent Machines Journal (IMJ). This early phase captured the nascent excitement of the computing revolution.
A pivotal shift occurred in February 1980. One year after the magazine was acquired by the International Data Group (IDG), it was rebranded as InfoWorld, signaling a broader focus on the information world at large.
Growth and Influence in Silicon Valley
By the mid-1980s, InfoWorld had become a central hub for industry insights. In 1986, the magazine introduced the Robert X. Cringely column. Written under a pseudonym, this column became the public face of the publication and solidified its deep connections to the heart of Silicon Valley.
The publication's corporate structure also shifted over time. Until the June 15, 1987 issue (Volume 9, Issue 24), it was published by Popular Computing, Inc., a subsidiary of CW Communications, Inc. Following this period, publishing responsibilities moved to InfoWorld Publishing, Inc., a subsidiary of IDG Communications, Inc.
Leadership and the Digital Transition
The 1990s brought high-profile leadership to the magazine. Bob Metcalfe, the inventor of Ethernet (the standard technology for wired local area networks), served as CEO and publisher from 1991 to 1996. Metcalfe continued to influence the publication through a weekly column that ran until 2000.
As the media landscape shifted toward the internet, InfoWorld eventually moved away from physical paper. The final print edition was published on April 2, 2007 (Volume 29, Issue 14, Number 1384), marking the end of its era as a printed magazine.
Today, in its web-based incarnation, InfoWorld has pivoted its editorial strategy. Rather than focusing on general news stories, it now emphasizes thought leadership, expert testing, and detailed how-to guides for technology professionals.
Key Facts
- Founded: 1978 as The Intelligent Machines Journal (IMJ).
- Rebranded: Renamed InfoWorld in February 1980.
- Key Figures: Founded by Jim Warren; led by Bob Metcalfe (CEO 1991–1996).
- Print End Date: April 2, 2007.
- Current Focus: Expert testing, how-to content, and thought leadership.
| Year | Event/Milestone | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| 1978 | Foundation | Launched as The Intelligent Machines Journal |
| 1980 | Rebranding | Name changed to InfoWorld |
| 1986 | Column Launch | Robert X. Cringely column begins |
| 1991-1996 | Executive Leadership | Bob Metcalfe serves as CEO and publisher |
| 2007 | Digital Pivot | Final print edition published April 2 |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was InfoWorld called when it first started?
It was founded in 1978 by Jim Warren as The Intelligent Machines Journal (IMJ).
Who is Robert X. Cringely?
Robert X. Cringely was the author of a pseudonymous column that began in 1986, becoming a symbol of InfoWorld's close ties to Silicon Valley.
Did a famous technologist ever lead the magazine?
Yes, Bob Metcalfe, the inventor of Ethernet, served as the CEO and publisher of InfoWorld from 1991 to 1996.
When did InfoWorld stop printing physical copies?
The final print edition was dated April 2, 2007, after which the publication became exclusively web-based.
How has the content of InfoWorld changed in the digital age?
The publication has transitioned from providing widely available news stories to focusing on expert testing, how-to guides, and thought leadership.