SETH'97:

Home Networks ("Smart Houses") is an emerging field of technology that holds significant promise for enhancing the quality of life for disabled and elderly people and in supporting efficient and enhanced services delivered to their homes. There has been much work developing prototype applications and pilot installations that have been successful in demonstrating this. However there are diverse and significant challenges to be met if this potential is to be realised widely. This paper outlines and suggests ways to address key challenges in 5 broad areas: User Issues; Commercial Considerations; Service Delivery; Buildings and Technological Issues.