Reviews the development of online systems in science and technology from batch searching through the advent of multinational online services, describes the key technological components, and discusses the economics of online systems. (Author/FM)

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…

This paper proposes a user designed system, HUC, intended to provide a single index and retrieval system covering all recorded knowledge and information capable of being retrieved from all modes of storage, from manual to the most sophisticated retrieval system. The concept integrates terminal hardware, software, and database structure to allow…

A new search feature has been developed and implemented to enhance online information retrieval from the ABI/INFORM database, which includes abstracts from more than 500 journals covering all aspects of business and management. Published by Data Courier Inc., it includes material dating back to 1971. Because of the diverse nature of the database…

User perception of data importance and the economic feasibility of hardware and storage devices will determine the future direction of online systems. A retrieval system's functions are ultimately dictated by database design. Early online sytems were designed for bibliographic information limited to citations only using sequential files. When…

Discusses the need for knowledge gateway systems to provide access to scattered information and the use of technologies in gateway building, including artificial intelligence and expert systems, networking, online retrieval systems, optical storage, and natural language processing. The status of four existing gateways is described. (20 references)…

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 progress report covers a two-year project which is part of a program that is exploring the value of computer aids in augmenting human intellectual capability. The background and nature of the program, its resources, and the activities it has undertaken are outlined. User experience in applying augmentation tools and techniques to various…

Examines a multiplicity of issues that must be considered as features are taken from two existing systems--libraries and computing centers--and used in moving toward the integrated information support system of the future. Discussion covers indexing, conversion, access, security, costs, changes in the workplace, and challenges of transition. (EJS)

In the first of three articles, the producer of Energyline, Energynet, and Tele/Scope recalls the development of the databases and database business strategies. The second describes the development of biomedical online databases, and the third discusses future developments, including full text databases, database producers as online host, and…

Stanford's Terminals for Managers Program was undertaken with two objectives: (1) to create a decision support system that would demonstrate the functional, technical, and economic value of electronic mail and other information technology services for university administrators, and (2) to educate these executives in information technology and…

After surveying the history and current status of online database searching, this report offers a timeline describing four stages of possible developments for online systems. In the first stage, an expert interface assists CD-ROM-based searching by offering advice about search strategies. Advantages are that search logic can be refined with the…

Advocates systems analysis as a first step for documents librarians considering the use of computer based technology, outlines the necessary steps, and cites publications that provide practical instruction. The areas of bibliographic control, collection development and integration, and documents reference service are discussed. (CLB)

Redesign of human-computer interface for users of computerized information systems can make substantial difference in training time, performance speed, error rates, and user satisfaction. Information and computer scientists are using controlled psychologically oriented experimentation, and evaluations during system development and active use to…

Discussion of knowledge-based technology highlights the ability of knowledge systems to integrate training and support for computer users in business offices. This type of expert system would use a common-knowledge base for computer-based training, online documentation, print documentation, and help systems for both experienced and novice users.…