This first part of a report originally published in 1992 compares micrographics and digital imaging as methods for preserving printed materials. Topics addressed include costs, standards, ease of access, optical disks, archival quality, resolution, and the benefits of a hybrid-system approach that combines technologies. (Contains nine references.)…

Evaluates different types of storage media for long-term archival storage of large amounts of data. Existing storage media are reviewed, including optical disks, optical tape, magnetic storage, and microfilm; three models are proposed based on document storage requirements; performance analysis is considered; and cost effectiveness is discussed.…

Describes the findings of the Committee on Preservation of the National Archives and Record Service, which compared the effectiveness of machine readable records and microfilm as storage media for archives. Discussion of the disadvantages of machine readable records focuses primarily on the rapid changes in technology. (4 references) (CLB)

Discusses the dual nature of EIPs (electronic information products), which display characteristics of both tangible products and intangible services. Differences between products, services, and EIPs are summarized in table form, and several advantages of and reasons for purchasing CD (compact disc) products are presented. (MES)

This study conducted at Texas A&M University compares two types of training approaches using ERIC SilverPlatter (ERIC SP). Education students received either: (1) a one hour training session on basic search commands and strategies, or (2) a four page instructional handout that described basic search commands, Boolean logic, and special…

Considers the appropriateness of using CD-ROM versus online systems. Topics discussed include cost effectiveness; how current the information is; full-text capabilities; a variety of interfaces; graphical user interfaces on CD-ROM; and possibilities for image representations. (LRW)

Representing the point of view of Philips Subsystems and Peripherals on Compact Disc-Read Only Memory (CD-ROM) and Compact Disc-Interactive (CD-I) issues, this position paper attempts to point out differences and similarities between the basic CD-ROM standard and the CD-I standard proposed for interactive use of data. (Author/MBR)

Consumer demand and advances in technology are generating increases in the availability of brand name compact disc (CD) recorders priced for average consumers. A comparative analysis of CD-recorders is presented based on functions, capabilities, cost, and marketability. Related issues are also discussed, including computer software; technical…

Discusses the cost of constructing a hypertext database and suggests cost forecasting approaches that can be used to determine whether organizations can internally fund a hypertext database, or whether producers can afford to market hypertext databases. Production costs in differing hypertext strategies are also compared. (27 references) (LRW)

A school librarian reviews CD-ROM encyclopedias, determining their suitability for school and public library use with children and young adults, and favoring content and accessibility over special features and multimedia enhancements. Outlines essential considerations when choosing encyclopedias (price, network and print versions, and online…

Presents the results of a comparative evaluation of four CD-ROM retrieval software packages using the Revised Richards-Brown CD-ROM Software Evaluation Model. CD Answer, SPIRS, KAware2, and ROMware are evaluated, and results indicate that SPIRS and CD Answer are the favored packages. (LRW)

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)

Discusses the importance of user cordial interfaces to the successful marketing of optical data disk products, and describes features of several online systems. The topics discussed include full text searching, indexed searching, menu driven interfaces, natural language interfaces, computer graphics, and possible future developments. (CLB)

Discussion of CD-ROM evaluation and selection processes focuses on a pairwise comparison method for knowledge acquisition with a consistency measure as a validation technique. Highlights include human experts' preferences and judgments; a CD-ROM selection model, including format, contents, usage, and technical considerations; and consistency…

Compares compact discs (CD-ROMs) and online services in terms of cost of information delivery; system advantages and disadvantages; future possibilities; and role in the National Information Infrastructure. Analysis reveals that CD-ROMs have the lowest information delivery cost and are endorsed by the marketplace as a cost-effective way to deliver…