Prince George's County Public Schools in Maryland, just outside of Washington, DC, has 125,000 students, 200 schools, and an annual budget of about $1.6 billion. Last year that budget was cut by about $16 million. The year before it was cut by $80 million. Every year now, it seems, school districts are forced to leave no stone unturned when it…

The current state of the economy in the developed countries make it possible to characterize them using concepts and terms such as the postindustrial society, the new economy, the service economy, the creative economy, the posteconomic society, the information society, the knowledge society, and the consumer society. Among these terms and…

The purchase of a new telecommunications system at Vanderbilt University is described. By understanding conditions in which buyers generally obtain leverage over sellers in industries, it was possible to improve negotiating power. Strategic-planning concepts developed by Michael Porter in his book "Competitive Strategy" were used as a…

Describes three popular "shareware" computer programs: PC-Write (word processing program for IBM PC and compatibles); PC-File III (electronic file system); PC-Talk III (communications program). Shareware programs are marketed at minimum profit with maximum distribution and unlimited acceptance test; are protected by copyright; and…

Presents revision of Book Industry Systems Advisory Committee (BISAC) format designed specifically for electronic transmission of purchase orders for monograph or series titles combining fixed and variable length data fields which was approved in January 1983. Special characters, sample address descriptions, summary of fixed records, glossary, and…

Outlines the advantages and disadvantages of Integrated Services Digital Network (ISDN) and advises potential users to consider: (1) service availability; (2) service levels offered; (3) service level needed; (4) installation fees; (5) tariff structure; (6) equipment needed; and (7) installation and configuration requirements. A sidebar relates…

Examines the integration of basic school communications technologies into single systems that allow for a growth path into the Internet and for sophisticated media retrieval. Descriptions and benefits of these systems for two school districts are discussed. (GR)

An electronic requisition and purchase-order system helps Louisville's schools stay legal and efficient. Designated individuals in schools create requisitions electronically and route them to the purchasing department, which generates and sends out paper purchase orders after checking the requisitions for correctness and legality. (MLF)

The OnTyme electronic mail service made available to library and information community by CLASS (a cooperative library services agency) is discussed as example of computer-based message system. Use of system by Dynamic Services to support internal and external communications needs and receive orders is highlighted. Examples of online sessions are…

Defines and discusses the equipment and software needed to start telecommunicating: modems (speed, autodial or manual dial, stand-alone or built-in), telephones, telecommunications software, and commercial information services, including electronic mail and bulletin boards. Definitions, communications protocols, equipment features, and costs are…

A tutorial introduction to the evaluation of communications software (enables microcomputer to function as terminal for purposes of communicating with remote device) covers computing hardware, modems, installation and operation, file transfers, printer controls, unattended reception, terminal emulation, documentation, and price. Detailed reviews…

Points out that purchasers of CD-ROM products do not acquire the same rights as they do when purchasing print products. Licensing terms and agreements of 12 CD-ROM producers are examined and the making of backup copies of support software, downloading, multiple use and other restrictions, and negotiating different licensing terms are discussed.…

Discusses how today's technology is encouraging schools to invest in furnishings that are adaptable to computer use and telecommunications access. Explores issues concerning modularity, wiring management, ergonomics, durability, price, and aesthetics. (GR)

Uses made of telemedia by various governmental agencies in Virginia in carrying out their functions are reviewed, and potentials for use offered by current technology are explored. The predominant uses for radio and television by those state agencies that have used telemedia are to distribute public service announcements (PSA's). Scripts, slides,…

This volume, the second of two, presents and analyzes the information technology acquisition plans of the Federal Government by agency and component. A brief description covers the outlays planned for major information technology acquisitions of general purpose data processing and telecommunications systems, facilities, and related services for 6…