Describes a computer-assisted system for the production of printed indexes based on networks of concept relations expressed in natural-language-like form. The LIPHIS is designed to handle more complex networks of concept relations, and so produce better indexing of highly detailed subjects. (Author/CWM)

The application of computer techniques to the making of concordances and indexes has brought about many innovations including the KWIC format and the exhaustive concordance. Although claims for the merits of these concordances are not always justified, the KWIC method offers the following advantages: (1) the detection of formulaic expressions and…

Work has been performed on a fully automated approach for the general categorization of documents based on a training set of document titles and abstracts and journal-level indexing of the journals in which the documents are published. The goal of this research is to automatically index documents using a consistent, timely set of controlled…

Describes a system for the automatic coding of most descriptive titles which generates Nested Phrase Indexing System (NEPHIS) input strings of sufficient quality for permuted index production. A series of examples and an 11-item reference list accompany the text. (JL)

Presents arguments supporting microcomputers as unprecedented tools for controlled vocabulary development and generation of references for small-scale indexing, illustrating the arguments through discussion of the experience of developing a controlled vocabulary for environmental studies. Some detailed aspects of system and program design are…

Discusses problems and costs involved in the use of the Library of Congress List of Subject Headings (LCSH) and speculates on how these problems can be minimized once the traditional card catalog is replaced with computer technology. (LLS)

Proposes that error rates in indexing using string index languages such as NEPHIS might be reduced at relatively low cost by having the indexer enter strings via a microcomputer system which could provide simple validation and feedback in the form of graphic displays of concept links. (Author/FM)

Compares the retrieval performance of a technique for machine-aided indexing using a controlled vocabulary with that of a Key Word Out of Context Index, basing conclusions on the results of 20 subject searches of a database containing summaries of defense management data. (FM)

Discusses standards as tools to promote compatibility and improve practice, the role of research versus expert opinion in creating standards, and the changing scope of indexing standards. The current draft of the NISO (National Information Standards Organization) American Standard Guidelines for Indexes in Information Retrieval (Z39.4) is…

Discusses shortcomings of a computer program previously described (Electronic Library, April 1985) to create Keyword Out of Context (KWOC) indexes. Program modifications are described which allow indexers to edit terms as the index is being compiled so term consistency is achieved and language conventions are observed. Examples are presented. (MBR)

Following a discussion of derivative versus assignment indexing, use of roles, and concept behind Preserved Concept Indexing System, features of PERMDEX (microcomputer program to assist in creation of permuted printed index) are described including indexer input and prompts, the shunting algorithm, and sorting and printing routines. Fourteen…

Analyzes a study of the effect of controlled variations in indexing vocabulary size on retrieval performance, using the Cranfield 200 and 1400 test collections. Sets of variable-length character strings were tested, in an application of the Cluster Hypothesis and in a series of linear associative retrieval experiments. (Author/SW)

Description of a computer system that converts text automatically into a form suitable for browsing and consultation online focuses on its use for online documentation. Also discussed are possibilities for its applications in automatic indexing, index access, and authoring systems for computer-assisted instruction (CAI). (four references)…

Describes a study that examined back of book indexes produced by 37 authors and 27 nonauthors to see whether differences between the 2 groups of indexers could be discerned by counting the occurrence of 3 characteristics in their indexes: number of index pages, modified headings, and cross-reference use. (27 references) (LRW)

Makes a case for the production of printed subject indexes and describes the MICROSPI package, which allows the production of NEPHIS (NEsted PHrase Indexing System) and KWAC (Key Word And Context) indexes on a microcomputer. (Author/MBR)