Addresses some problems associated with technological change and examines the nature of data and technology, organizations, and computer-mediated work. Concepts of sociotechnical systems design are related to library automation, and a set of strategies for facilitating technological change is proposed. (29 references) (Author/CLB)

Discusses the advantages of parallel processor computers in terms of expandibility, cost, performance and reliability, and suggests that such computers be used in library automation systems as a cost effective approach to planning for the growth of information services and computer applications. (CLB)

Comparison of the use in libraries of open systems--a configuration of software and hardware components from separate vendors linked by interfaces--and integrated systems considers selection of services; reliability; relationships with vendors; time needed to implement systems; and overall effectiveness of both approaches. (CLB)

This article describes the Chaminade University (Hawaii) information management system which integrates the fiscal system, the chart of accounts, the general ledger, accounts receivable, budgeting, purchasing and encumbrances, accounts payable, and faculty contracts. Briefly described are the initial system, system revision, design concepts, data…

Waubonsee Community College (WCC) employs electronic technology to meet the needs of its students and community in virtually every phase of campus operations. WCC's Information System Center, housing three mainframe computers, drives an online registration system, a computerized self-registration system that can be accessed by telephone from…

A persistent increase in student, faculty, and administrative demand for information technology has resulted in a sharp rise in the total cost of computing services to universities. In response, universities must develop long-term strategic planning processes and policies to establish priorities for information technology investments, determine…

This guide is intended to provide assistance to educators interested in developing two-way interactive television networks, addressing the educational and cost issues of this technology. Interactive television (I-TV) offers smaller or rural schools the opportunity to offer a comprehensive program within budgetary restraints. I-TV refers to the…

Reviews recent and current research and development projects in the United Kingdom dealing with online information systems. Main areas of research (systems design, impact on user behavior and organizational structure, ergonomics and bibliographic factors) and research techniques (features analysis, transaction log analysis, surveys and comparative…

The 14 City Technology Colleges (CTCs) opened so far in Great Britain are achieving an average attendance rate of between 90 percent and 97 percent. This high level of attendance has been assisted by the use of electronic registration (role taking) devices, including smart cards, portable computers, and optical readers. This report compares…

This manual is written for any library planning to introduce a new or replacement automated system. It focuses on planning for an integrated system that computerizes a multiplicity of library functions using one common database. This second edition contains a new section on the preparation of a technology strategic plan, a section on developing…

Describes the management approach used to introduce new technologies in an academic library and the success of this approach. The management of change is discussed in terms of communication between management and personnel; management style; development of a system; staff development; and sensitivity to staff reactions and needs. (CLB)

The "virtual campus" is a metaphor for the electronic teaching, learning, and research environment created by the convergence of several relatively new technologies including, but not restricted to, the Internet, World Wide Web, computer-mediated communication, video conferencing, multi-media, groupware, video-on-demand, desktop…

Today there is a pressing call for technology o provide expanded higher education opportunities to a wide spectrum of present and potential clientele. This digest summarizes a larger report of the same title which examines the implications of teaching on the "virtual" college campus. It briefly examines the following questions: (1) what…