This introduction to Database's annual review issue highlights trends covered in the 1991-93 reviews; lists 13 trends described as a continuation of the trends of the past 2 or 3 years; and discusses the World Wide Web and America Online's innovative development of a database that combines text, images, sound, and commentary. (KRN)

Argues that the selection of a database is a significant factor in the success and cost effectiveness of an online search, and provides guidelines for determining whether the content of a database is relevant for a particular search and whether the database is accessible, affordable, and suitable for the search. (LAE)

Reviews recent trends in databases and online systems. Topics discussed include new access points for established databases; acquisitions, consolidations, and competition between vendors; European coverage; international services; online reference materials, including telephone directories; political and legal materials and public records;…

Review of developments in databases highlights a new emphasis on accessibility. Topics discussed include the internationalization of databases; databases that deal with finance, drugs, and toxic waste; access to public records, both personal and corporate; media online; reducing large files of data to smaller, more manageable files; and…

Describes some of the problems encountered in full text searching and suggests ways to overcome them. Areas discussed include differences between online and offline versions of full text; lack of precise and flexible indexing; software inadequacies; record displays; typographical errors; and problems with both global and source searching. (six…

Reviews developments in the database industry for 1993. Topics addressed include scientific and technical information; environmental issues; social sciences; legal information; business and marketing; news services; documentation; databases and document delivery; electronic bulletin boards and the Internet; and information industry organizational…