Abstract
The state, problems, and prospects of the new field of computer-assisted chemistry, namely the design and search for new ways of synthesising organic compounds with the aid of a computer (computer-assisted synthesis), are described. The principal developments in programming, used directly by organic chemists are examined. The existing programs for computer-assisted synthesis are subjected to a comparative analysis and the features which more than 20 computer systems have in common, including the "FLAMINGOES" system devised by the authors, as well as the differences between them are elucidated.
The bibliography includes 123 references.