Explains how to create an organizational system that will result in good performance. Topics discussed include process versus system; two views of a system, i.e., mechanistic and organic; and components of a system, including performance guides, measurement of results, feedback, and training. (LRW)

Examines six steps inherent to development of in-house automated library system: (1) problem definition, (2) requirement specifications, (3) analysis of alternatives and solutions, (4, 5) design and implementation of hardware and software, and (6) evaluation. Practical method for comparing and weighting options is illustrated and explained. A…

Describes interorganizational information systems and the necessity for cooperation. Topics discussed include managerial considerations, including objectives, benefits, and resources; considerations in systems development, including telecommunications skills; considerations for users of information systems, including user needs; and considerations…

Discussion of potential library applications for microcomputers focuses on effective software and professional system design practices and describes OCLC projects involving microcomputers to illustrate their use as a stand-alone unit, back-up system, interface device, and an enhancement mechanism. Additional sources of information on microcomputer…

Delineates the differences between simulators and training devices, and discusses the possibility of inadequate training when simulators are used as training devices. Guidelines for appropriate training device development using a behavioral learning approach are presented. (13 references) (CLB)

Describes use of RFPs (requests for proposals) to specify requirements for automated library systems and presents advice on when to use RFPs, how to construct the statements, and how to present library needs and priorities so that maximum success in choosing a vendor and system are achieved. (Author/CLB)

Presents detailed guidelines based on the literature for screen layout and design of online catalogs, and discusses the potential advantages in terms of number of transactions per hour and user satisfaction. Further research questions are suggested and an extensive bibliography is provided. (CLB)

The nature and form of useful management information in a variety of situations is discussed. It is suggested that questions posed by managers may determine the effectiveness of the management information system. Questions concerning demographic trends and enrollment declines are used to illustrate this point. (SF)

Offers guidelines for selecting community members for systemic restructuring efforts in public schools. Definitions of community and of systemic restructuring, or educational systems design, are presented; the importance of selection efforts is discussed; a community selection model is described and explained; and further research is suggested.…

This description of a method for using task analysis information to derive skill and knowledge requirements in the development of a training course begins by considering two important aspects of deriving skill and knowledge requirements. First, it is argued that task description is an important part of system design and training development in…

Information systems are becoming more than computer systems, with new equipment and techniques combining with data processing to form a new field called information technology. The emerging discipline of systems engineering is discussed along with nine systems engineering techniques. An organization chart of an information services department is…

Discusses incremental decisions that need to be made when selecting a videodisc system and presents guidelines for moving through the learning and decision-making process. Guidelines cover understanding the technology, understanding the videodisc project process, composing the project team, establishing requirements and considering the budget, and…

The drive for systemic reform in education reflects a widespread hunger in all sectors of society to make sense of the whole, as is shown in the increasing recognition of people in organizations of the interrelatedness of the organizations' parts. However, many attempts at systemic reform are hampered by the lack of a common view of what an…