Examines the cost effectiveness of using DIALORDER, an online document ordering service provided by DIALOG. (FM)

Offers guidelines and a checklist to use when buying a computer. (WD)

This resource directory provides brief evaluative descriptions of six popular home computers and lists selected sources of educational software, computer books, and magazines. For a related article on microcomputers in the schools, see p53-58 of this journal issue. (SJL)

Presents a model procedure for defining one's own computing needs and using that definition to compare the features of various microcomputers. (SJL)

Provides information on the advantages and disadvantages of different photographic lenses, including normal, wide angle, telephoto, zoom, macro, and mirror lenses. (TJ)

Discusses how schools can benefit by establishing sustainable purchasing practices for furniture and furnishings. Describes the elements of sustainable purchasing (reduce, reuse, recycle; ingredients/contents; emissions/indoor air quality; and corporate guidelines), and the added vigilance required of purchasing agents. (EV)

Discusses key factors to consider when selecting furniture for offices and other administrative areas, including flexibility, ergonomics, aesthetics, and cost. Includes a sidebar on dealing with bulky wiring at computer workstations. (EV)

Shares tips for making the right purchases of furniture for college residence halls, including issues of durability, aesthetics, flexibility and floor space, and delivery. (EV)

Presents comprehensive lists of educational facilities products, services, and suppliers. Includes a product index, suppliers list and directory, product showcase, and free literature information. (EV)

Presents comprehensive lists of educational facilities products, services, and suppliers. Includes a product index, suppliers list and directory, product showcase, and free literature information. (EV)

Discusses schools' use of Web-based procurement for supplies. Describes the cost savings and other benefits of this purchasing method, along with prominent vendors. (EV)

Presents a straightforward method for evaluating lease versus borrow (buy) decisions illustrated with actual financing cost data reported to new car purchasers. States that individuals should consider after-tax cash flows associated with alternative arrangements, time in which cash flow occurs, and opportunity cost of capital to identify the least…

A study tried to distinguish between consumers (n=440) who bought and did not buy an extended service contract, to find out why a consumer would buy an extended service contract, and to profile those most likely to purchase one. Results showed that most consumers felt such contracts were worthwhile and offered peace of mind. (JOW)

A survey of Minnesota businesses about their efforts to buy recycled content products. Results discuss reactive versus proactive policies, the corporate advantage of environmental protection, how efforts are hampered by confusion, suppliers as key informants, and businesses' need for information. (MDH)

Discusses strategies for providing students with current computer software technology including acquiring previous versions of software, obtaining demonstration software, using student versions, getting examination software, buying from mail order firms, buying few copies, exploring site licenses, acquiring shareware or freeware, and applying for…