It is high time now, when we see the institution enter its 25th year of activity, to attempt to draw a sketch profile. One needs show clear what one works to, even if only as a sign of gratification for all those taking pains to move it forward, and having the sense of their efforts and involvement. For twenty five years now, ICI has been one of the most powerful and active centres for advanced researches in the field of computer science and automatic control via computer. Its prestige is a matter of course.