Usually repeating columns in newspapers have names next to the byline. So this one is attributed to Farhad Manjoo - STATE OF THE ART which is explained as "A column from Farhad Manjoo that examines how technology is changing business and society."

Columns are very much opinion pieces. Editorials are opinion pieces written by the editorial staff and usually are looked at as having the support of the paper (like endorsing a candidate). It definitely be more clear though.