In the current object-oriented paradigm, software construction increasingly involves creating and utilizing "software components". These components can serve a variety of functions, from common algorithmic processes to database connectivity to graphical interfaces. The advantage of component architectures is that programmers can use pre-existing…

Describes the technical characteristics of Telidon, a second-generation videotex system developed in Canada and announced in August 1978, and discusses what has occurred since that time in planning field trials, developing information services, and in planning a coordinated development for Canada of this new technology. (Author)

Reviews five areas in which computer graphics technology has been applied: animation, computer-aided design, home information systems, scientific uses, and geographic information systems. (FM)

Academic libraries customize, support, and provide access to myriad information systems, each with complex graphical user interfaces. The number of possible information entry points on an academic library Web site is both daunting to the end-user and consistently challenging to library Web site designers. Faced with the challenges inherent in…

Describes significant attributes of expert systems, contrasts them to conventional computer systems, and provides an overview of the R1 expert system used by Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC) to put together operational systems that meet customers' requirements. Document handling, particularly pictures and images in documents, is also briefly…

In senior-level undergraduate research courses in Computer Information Systems (CIS), students are required to read and assimilate a large volume of current research literature. One course objective is to demonstrate to the student that there are patterns or models or paradigms of research. A new approach in identifying research paradigms is…

This article illustrates how Lotus 1-2-3 software can be used to create graphs using downloaded online searches as raw material, notes most commands applied, and outlines three required steps: downloading, importing the downloading file into the worksheet, and making graphs. An example in bibliometrics and sample graphs are included. (EJS)

Describes capabilities and advantages of spreadsheet software, including its ability to perform "what-if" analysis quickly and easily. Also noted are additional advantages; applications, including use in the library environment; history and development; new-generation spreadsheets; and enhanced packaging in the near future. A spreadsheet…

In personal information retrieval, items are associated with events and can be accessed by their relationship to events as well as content. Describes two early projects and a prototype graphical event-based retrieval system comprising file changes, mail messages, active badge sightings, video snapshots, desk diary entries, notes, weather reports…

Information systems in public places such as community centers and libraries require some means to provide access to individuals with physical, visual, and, if sound is involved, hearing impairments. This paper proposes a seamless adaptable human interface protocol that would allow users to incrementally modify the command and presentation aspects…

Discusses how simulation technology for the analysis of information systems (IS) supports human decision making. Examines online help and knowledge-based support, graphics, and visual interactive simulation (VIS) and animation. Concludes that there are opportunities to improve the decision support role of simulation technology in IS with enhanced…

Discusses new possibilities that computers and laser printers offer instructional technologists. Includes a brief history of printed communications, a description of new technological advances referred to as "desktop publishing," and suggests the application of this technology to instructional tasks. (TW)

The PLATO IV computer-based educational system contains its own communications hardware and software for operating plasma-panel graphics terminals. Key echoing is performed by the central processing unit: every key pressed at a terminal passes through the entire system before anything appears on the terminal's screen. Each terminal is guaranteed…

This paper describes the development of a campus wide information system (CWIS) at Metropolitan State College of Denver (MSCD) in Colorado. The paper discusses the background of the college, its computing environment, interactive voice response system, and information technology plan. The CWIS was first implemented on gopher. Gopher was…

Describes the creation and purpose of the Colorado Alliance of Research Libraries (CARL), the subsequent development of CARL Systems, and its current research projects. Topics discussed include online catalogs; UnCover, a journal article database; full text data; document delivery; visual images in computer systems; networks; and implications for…