Presents revision of Book Industry Systems Advisory Committee (BISAC) format designed specifically for electronic transmission of purchase orders for monograph or series titles combining fixed and variable length data fields which was approved in January 1983. Special characters, sample address descriptions, summary of fixed records, glossary, and…

Beginning on the cover, this article suggests school administrators can reduce paperwork burdens by using personal computers along with general software programs. Describes general programs--such as word processing, item bank, electronic worksheet, and database management programs--and discusses their applications and gives tips for buying and…

Discusses the various factors involved in the selection of a satisfactory and flexible microcomputer system, with emphasis on the limited technological sophistication of current models produced by Apple, Radio Shack, and others. Disk operating systems, questions of intersystem compatibility, and the future of microprocessor chip technology are…

Recounts some of the problems encountered in the use of an Osborne-1 microcomputer for personal purposes by a computing veteran, describes some of the shortcomings of the sales system for microcomputers as it presently exists, and makes some conjectures concerning the impact of those shortcomings on the personal computer industry. (JL)

Six school administrators and computer users give advice on coping with microcomputer software problems. Suggestions include contacting other software users, sampling computer programs or watching software demonstrations before buying, and ensuring adequate program documentation. (RW)

Describes floppy disk information storage systems and discusses capabilities and advantages of floppy disks for microcomputer users. The functions of disk operating systems (DOS) are reviewed and the effect of DOS formats on the choice of an appropriate disk drive system is outlined. (JL)

Many library routines can be accomplished more efficiently by the use of an electronic typewriter or word processor. (Author/MLF)

Lists some criteria that should be considered before purchasing any computer-based training product or service. Points out some negative economic ramifications that result from not consulting this or a similar list of criteria. (CT)

A computer program that utilizes an optical scanning machine is used for ordering supplies in a Louisiana school system. The program provides savings in time and labor, more accurate data, and easy-to-use reports. (Author/MLF)

Explains the various types of word processing systems and factors to be considered in assessing needs for a word processing system. (Author/MLF)

Provides a brief review of various computer funding alternatives, suggests a methodology for evaluating the alternatives, and presents an example of the methodology applied to an actual case. (Author/IRT)

Offers some new approaches to film previewing designed to save time and money for both film distributors and users. (FL)

A step-by-step guide to setting up an inventory control system that works. (Author)

An account is given of a consumer's visits to a number of retail computer stores to catch a glimpse of what the innocent consumer can expect when buying a home computer. (MP)

Reviews two research articles. Gratton and Taylor, using economic analysis and market research, found that consumers of leisure experiences complained about price increases, but continued consuming. They recommend discounts for those in need and price increases focusing on service quality. Greenleaf and Lehmann identified 11 reasons why people…