Surveys four possible types of multimedia computer systems: hypermedia, multimedia database, multimedia message, and virtual reality systems. The potential use of multimedia computer systems as public access systems in libraries is discussed, including fiscal, legal, organizational, standardization, and technological challenges that would have to…

Discusses expected future developments in full text databases (FTDs) in three main areas: host-based menu-driven systems; menu and front end interfaces on gateway and mailbox services; and microcomputer or front end computer-based systems which already have good retrieval interactions and input output processing features. (24 references)…

Describes an electronic bulletin board called LIBRARY that was developed at Carnegie Mellon University to display the tables of contents of scholarly journals and timely postings of new monographs in the fields of computer science and robotics. Areas discussed include preparation involved in beginning the service, management and upkeep, feedback…

Discusses the concepts, costs, and benefits of bulletin board services (BBSs) as a distance learning strategy for staff training and communication. The New York State Independent Living Bulletin Board System (NYS IL BBS) for caseworkers monitoring at-risk youth is described as an example of how to plan bulletin board content. (Contains six…

This discussion of Alanet, a comprehensive information system for professional librarians, covers its development; program features; advantages; uniqueness as a complete and integrated electronic information system for library professionals; system applications; benefits; costs; future developments; and user education. (MBR)

The first of 10 sections in this report focuses on factors that will affect the evolution of Space Station Project (SSP) documentation systems. The goal of this project is to prepare the space station technical and managerial structure for likely changes in the creation, capture, transfer, and utilization of knowledge about the space station which…

This newsletter presents information about the status of the Standardization of Postsecondary Education Electronic Data Exchange/Exchange of Permanent Records Electronically for Students and Schools (SPEEDE/ExPRESS), a system developed for the electronic exchange of student academic records. The awarding of the new SPEEDE/ExPRESS contract, the…

Presents a 10-step goal-oriented method for establishing an electronic college. Commitment to training, support, and motivation of people is advocated, as well as technological expertise. Each of the steps is described in detail using the "TowerNet" system from the Adult Education Department at Pennsylvania State University as a case…

Describes the strategies used to develop the "Seattle Times Extra," an online bulletin board service, and outlines some of the challenges that the introduction of this two-way computerized medium brought to the company and the newspaper. Discussion includes issues of competition, content development, technical support, finances, marketing, union…