Discussion of the application of CD-ROM technology for online public access catalogs (OPACs) covers: (1) the production process; (2) costs; (3) advantages and disadvantages of using CD-ROM; (4) current CD-ROM applications; and (5) future developments. (5 references) (MES)

Discussion of recent developments in personal workstations and software that make it possible to extend the utility of library systems presents the advantages of workstations as well as technical problems and potential solutions. Development of a simple prototype workstation environment at the University of Western Ontario is described. (16…

Provides an overview of recent technological developments in the area of multimedia technologies that enhance information access and describes recent developments in PROJECT EMPEROR-I, an interactive videodisc project that has expanded with multimedia technology. Digital technologies and their interactive applications are discussed, and sample…

Examines issues surrounding CD-ROM as an organizational information management tool: (1) the CD-ROM market; (2) pitfalls, including compatibility, effect on existing information systems, fear of obsolescence, protection of sensitive information, and lack of successful role models; and (3) factors that will fuel growth, including greater…

Suggests ways for educators to become computer literate: (1) admit you don't know about computers; (2) be patient with yourself; (3) read about technology; (4) get a home computer; (5) attend training; (6) experiment; (7) ask for assistance; and (8) talk with others about what works for them. (AEF)

Management of information technology at Dallas County Community College District is centralized. Information technology organization and planning, integrated data network, computer services, end user services, and educational technology are discussed. (MLW)

Reports on the development of a test designed to measure the perceived characteristics of microcomputers as information innovations, with factors measuring complexity, compatibility, and trialability/observability, but not measuring relative advantage or perceived expense. Finds acceptable levels of reliability and construct validity for the test.…

Describes a project in which a group of primary school students tried out a range of IT activities using Xemplar Pocket Book computers. Demonstrates that they improved the quality and range of pupils' learning and supported literacy in science. Explains that pocket computers do not replace but complement the classroom PC. (Author/ASK)

Effective support for end users of computers has been an important issue in higher education from the first applications of general purpose mainframe computers through minicomputers, microcomputers, and supercomputers. The development of end user support is reviewed and organizational models are examined. (Author/MLW)

Describes hypermedia, which allow the associative retrieval, manipulation, and storage of music, video, text, and graphics. Examples of applications are given, the use of hypermedia with interactive video and with microcomputers is discussed, and their implications for library and information specialists are explored. (12 references) (CLB)

Presents an operational definition of personal information retrieval systems and describes design principles of current applications and existing systems, current trends, and research guidelines for general design principles. (4 references) (Author/CLB)

Examines strategies for marketing online searching to new users, discusses reasons why people become online searchers, and presents data on the business information market. The pricing issue and special librarians as a market segment are also considered. (EM)

Describes the origins of hypertext and reviews the history of the concept of nonsequential access to information that led to hypertext. Technological developments that have been combined with hypertext are discussed, including workstations, video and laser disk technology, and microcomputers; and library applications of hypertext and hypermedia…

Discussion of the diffusion of information technology focuses on telecommunications in developing countries, television systems, and personal computers. Examples and statistics from the United States and other countries are provided. (eight references) (MES)

Project management (PM) software, used by business to facilitate planning and implementation of complex projects through database building, is discussed. Typical PM tools are reviewed, uses of the technique on campus are examined, availability of microcomputer PM software is noted, and its functional uses and benefits are explored. (Author/MSE)