Presents a new technique for information access based on a combination of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and conceptual structures as modeled in relational concept analysis. Describes a graphical interface that allows access of spatial, hierarchical, and linear data in a common manner; discusses its features and limits. (Author/AEF)

Suggests that a faceted thesaurus should be used as the basis for organizing a small-scale institutional Web site. Contends that a faceted approach to knowledge organization can make the process of organization less random and more manageable. Reports on an informal survey of three Web sites, underscoring the problems of organization that can…

Evaluates Web sites representing businesses in 11 countries in East and Central Europe (ECE) by taking a stance of the Western business user. Findings indicate that the ECE business Web is showing a capability of survival usability, while lacking for the most part more competitive usability. (Author/AEF)

Describes design considerations of two interrelated programs that together make LEArning Portfolio (LEAP) prototype system for accessing engineering information for engineers. The two programs are: Engineering Information Sources and Access (EISA), implemented as a Web-based self-learning prototype system; and Information Sources that Every…

Reports on the results of a study of a community computing system, Prairienet. Examines characteristics of users and the extent to which Prairienet is serving its purpose as a community resource for networked communication and information access, through the analysis of usage patterns and logs. (Author/AEF)

Proposes a user-centered framework for intranet design based on an understanding of people, their typical problems, information behaviors, and situated contexts. Argues that by adopting such an approach, intranets can be designed which facilitate organizational information access and use. (Author/AEF)

Examines Web site assessment criteria that producers of public information may use to evaluate the effectiveness of a Web site. The goal of this study was to design analytical tools from system-based techniques and user feedback with which federal Web site administrators can assess the quality of their Web sites. (Author/AEF)

Reports results of a research project assessing state-funded community networking (CN) sites in India. Explores the organization of information resources and services provided by 24 Web-based community networks, examines the core design principles that have been most useful in the development of these sites, and assesses strategies currently used…

When young people are provided with the means to effectively reach political decision makers and influence them, there is hope to make them participate in politics and to revitalize democracy. This paper presents the conceptual design of an Internet-based system intended to enable such participation; the presentation is illustrated with the case…

Presents the Virtual Reference Desk project, its activities, and a proposed information system architecture to build a human intermediated network of expertise and experience. The project seeks to study, support, and improve current K-12 digital reference services, as well as to build a foundation for a national cooperative digital reference…