Examines issues of CD-ROM networking for companies; identifies cost savings and focuses on administrative and technical problems. Highlights include slower access speed, technical design deficiencies, inconsistency in search engines and user interfaces, installation problems, drive letter selections, designs that work for LAN access, questions to…

Provides an overview of CD-ROM technology and local area networking focusing on NetWare Loadable Modules (NLMs) which provide network access to CD-ROMs, using Novell's NetWare operating system. The characteristics and benefits of various products and concerns in choosing one are discussed, and comparative specifications and vendors are listed.…

Discusses CD-ROM development, including common production terms (data acquisition, rights acquisition, data conversion, indexing, authoring, premastering, image building, replication); describes the roles of project team members (script writers, artists, designers, programmers, managers, distributors); and explains the differences between CD-ROM…

Discusses design options for CD-ROM storage. Highlights include a marketing strategy resulting in the creation of the jewel box; replacement and duplex jewel boxes; caddies; business furniture companies for large collections; flip-racks; and lazy-susans. (AEF)

Provides a comprehensive system for professional evaluation of CD-ROM software. The system extends the work of Peter Jacso by including a detailed evaluation form using a simplified rating scale. It also incorporates the CD-ROM Consistent Interface Guidelines, which propose 13 basic functions for CD-ROM user interfaces. The evaluation form is…

The first of a two-part series on design of CD-ROM work areas in libraries discusses (1) space and location considerations; (2) ergonomics, including work surface, chairs, lighting, printers, other accessories, and security; and (3) other considerations, including staff assistance, reference tools, literature racks, and promotional materials. (MES)

Presents a guide to multimedia production staffing. Discussion includes understanding the market (profit and loss), the management and production teams, costs, salaries and budgets, the preproduction phase, the production and design phase, staff cooperation, work assignments, media-specific professionals, and quality control. Sample staffing costs…

Discusses the factors considered at DIALOG before creating a CD-ROM version of a data file, including increased revenues potential, technical viability, and user expectations. A checklist of questions used to review possible CD-ROM projects is provided. (EA)

Describes the step-by-step process of writing a bootable CD-ROM. Discusses equipment and background. Steps include copying the hard drive, creating an image, editing, determining boot catalog placement, and creating the boot record. (AEF)

Discusses the alliance of artists and technologists for business multimedia development. Highlights include building design/technical work groups; project management planning; and the establishment of preset principles for business (defining the scope and variety of products and services), content management, technical design, and interface…

Argues that the most effective CD-ROM user's guides are written by a documentation team skilled in instructional design, graphic design, and writing. Three purposes of a manual--installation guide, teaching tool, and ongoing reference--are explained, and 10 guidelines for developing effective documentation are offered. (NRP)

Discusses emerging portable CD-ROM technology and suggests guidelines for selecting and configuring a cost-effective system. Factors covered include portability, battery life, performance, durability, and display. Connecting the CD-ROM drive to the computer, producing and updating the CD-ROM database, use of the database, and accommodating…

Examines technical and support issues that impact on libraries' decisions to provide patrons with remote communication access to CD-ROM local area networks. Areas discussed include licensing costs for CD-ROM, remote control communications software, dedicated hardware, system maintenance, computer security, and the provision of quality, user…

Describes contents and format of effective quick reference guides for users of CD-ROM databases. The different needs of beginning and more sophisticated users are detailed; guidelines for organizing information and laying out the text are provided; and two formats for user aids are pictured. (KRN)

The first of two articles on multiuser access to CD-ROM databases examines options that do not involve a local area network (LAN). Hardware and software requirements, advantages, and disadvantages for several alternatives are described. A product and company directory is included. (MES)