Describes a simplified online service specifically designed for school and student use, which accesses 90 appropriate databases through the use of menu options, help screens, and search hints. The costs of the service and its use in teaching online search skills are discussed. (CLB)

Describes the experiences of the American Society for Training and Development library with the CD-ROM version of ERIC. The following topics are discussed: (1) installation of the CD-ROM system; (2) CD-ROM vs. online searching; (3) cost/benefit of CD-ROM; (4) patron response; and (5) future plans. (1 reference) (MES)

Besides redistricting problems engendered by higher elementary school enrollments (and decreasing secondary enrollments), school administrators face student transport challenges. Acquiring new routes and larger buses could be costly. This article advances computerized systems as the most cost-effective way to optimize routes and manage…

Compares OCLC, WLN, and RLIN in terms of the composition of the databases, indexes and searching, special uses for public services, costs, and documentation. Selected bibliographies of general public service uses and interlibrary loan applications are provided. (CLB)

Detailed profiles and comparisons of European databanks being marketed in the United States include marketing strategies, subject content, number and types of databases offered, cost information, value added services, and more. Users' views of the viability, ease of use, and strengths and weaknesses of European databases are presented. (CLB)

Describes and compares three versions of the ERIC database that are available on optical data disks: (1) DIALOG OnDisc ERIC; (2) OCLC Search CD450; and (3) SilverPlatter ERIC. The database contents, software and search commands, hardware requirements, notable features, and costs of each version are discussed. (CLB)

Computerized bus-routing systems plot the most efficient routes, cut the time it takes to draw routes, and generate reports quickly and accurately. However, school districts often underestimate the amount of work necessary to get information into the computer database. (MLF)

The Wichita, Kansas, Public Schools' Food Service Department Project Reduction in Paperwork (RIP) is designed to automate certain paperwork functions, thus reducing cost and flow of paper. This article addresses how RIP manages free/reduced meal applications and meets the objectives of reducing paper and increasing accuracy, timeliness, and…

Describes the downloading capabilities of the WESTMATE version of the WESTLAW retrieval system and compares WESTLAW to LEXIS in terms of downloading functions and costs. The steps involved in WESTLAW access with standard communications software are outlined, and sample screen displays are appended. (CLB)

An executive of Moody's Investors Service explains what past experience has taught the company about municipal analysis, how a bond issue is assigned a credit rating, and what issuers can do to obtain the best rating. (MLF)

Emory University, Georgia, has a space and equipment database management system that maintains inventories and generates reports. (MLF)

Suggestions are offered for automating university telemarketing efforts. The integration of computer technology with existing phone systems can be accomplished using various types of terminals, caller-controlled or computer-controlled dialing, systematic database management, and institutional commitment. Increased efficiency and long-term cost…

School districts should have a records management system through which student, employee, and related documents are maintained. Explains the meaning of records management, the implications of choosing not to establish an ongoing program, and how to be a leader in the program. (eight references) (MLF)

Nevada's Clark County, the fastest growing school district in the nation, uses a life-cycle facilities management approach that monitors the individual components of each building on a database. The district's 10-year building program is addressing facilities infrastructure renewal, deferred maintenance, replacement, and new school construction.…

The characteristics of paper or microform library materials, electronic publications, and online databases are compared in terms of equipment needs, cost effectiveness, budgeting, and satisfaction of users' needs. Suggestions for the effective integration of these materials are offered. (13 references) (CLB)