Discussion of a new method of index term dictionary compression in an inverted-file-oriented database highlights a technique of word coding, which generates short fixed-length codes obtained from the index terms themselves by analysis of monogram and bigram statistical distributions. Substantial savings in communication channel utilization are…

Presents questions to consider when selecting a computer gradebook program. Questions cover (1) attendance, (2) academic progress, (3) reports, (4) design features, and (5) customer support. (CH)

This manual is designed to assist librarians in programming unique database applications that meet specific library needs. Chapter 1 goes over the basic functions of working with Windows, describes terms such as multitasking, and shows how to use the menu and tool bars. Chapter 2 covers the basics, defines some useful terms, and presents the steps…

Presents a statement of requirements developed by the University of Pittsburgh School of Information Science ensuring the preservation of evidence in electronic form. Although specifically addressing electronic record-keeping systems, the requirements are also applicable to manual or hybrid systems. (PEN)

The director of facilities at a prestigious 75-year-old Delaware school located an easy-to-implement software program to computerize the schools's physical-plant system. The right software helps facilities managers oversee schools' physical plants, including budgeting and maintenance. (MLF)

Discusses the role that information resource management (IRM) plays in educational program-oriented budgeting (POB), and presents a theoretical IRM model. Highlights include design considerations for integrated data systems; database management systems (DBMS); and how POB data can be integrated to enhance its value and use within an educational…

Describes Structured Query Language (SQL), the result of an American National Standards Institute effort to standardize language used to query computer databases and a common element in second generation database management systems. The discussion covers implementations of SQL, associated products, and techniques for its use in online catalogs,…

Discusses the technological changes that will necessitate the prospective conversion of library data over the next decade and addresses the problems of converting data from obsolete personal computers to newer models that feature radically different operating systems. Three case studies are used to illustrate possible scenarios. (11 references)…

Describes the development and impact of minicomputer-based system of instructional management for the general psychology program at Texas Tech University (Lubbock). Discusses how a program might be used for educational research in other university settings. Suggests the program can be used in either large or small departments. (KO)

This article surveys recent developments in hypertext software, a highly interactive nonsequential reading/writing/database approach to research and teaching that allows paths to be created through related materials including text, graphics, video, and animation sources. Described are uses, advantages, and problems of hypertext. (PB)

Compares two full featured database management systems for bibliographic information in terms of programs and documentation; record creation and editing; online database citations; search procedures; access to references in external text files; sorting and printing functions; style sheets; indexes; and file operations. (four references) (CLB)

Examines the possibility of using expert system tools for environmental data management. Describes the domain-independent expert system shell SAK and Knowledge EXplorer, a system that learns rules from data. Demonstrates the functionality of Knowledge EXplorer on an example of water quality evaluation. (LZ)

Discusses "REFLEX," a software package for scheduling. Explores the program's applications in preparing a departmental class schedule. Explains that "REFLEX" includes a filter function and some attributes of a spreadsheet but lacks the ability to interact with other databases. Concludes that the program can make scheduling…

Examines why the "paperless office" has failed to materialize despite the availability of appropriate information technology. Conceptual limits are discussed, including the continued reliance on relational database management systems; the use of free-text retrieval software is considered; and social limits are described, including access…

Discusses the process and demonstrates the utility of repackaging lantern slides (i.e., photographs printed on glass or film sandwiched between glass) as digital images. A prototype community memory interface for access to the images is described, and photographs of the visual index to stored images are included. (seven references) (KRN)