The purpose of this study was to examine use of decision-making tools and feedback in strategic planning in order to develop a rigorous process that would promote the efficiency of strategic planning for acquisitions in the United States Coast Guard (USCG). Strategic planning is critical to agencies such as the USCG in order to be effective…

This continuation of the previously published four part directory reports information on several additional laserdisk databases and provides updates on some of those included in the original listing. Included in the product descriptions are producers; compatibility; type of laserdisk; software; interface with magnetic media; conditions of usage;…

Presents an overview and statistical profile of currently available CD-ROM databases. Trends in the following areas are discussed: types of databases available (index, source, reference, full text, numeric, software and images); subject areas covered by databases; update frequency; and pricing. A list of key publishers and software is provided.…

Based on evaluations of 1,025 CD-ROM products, this article summarizes trends in (1) growth of commercially available CD-ROM titles; (2) types and subjects of products produced; (3) update options; (4) hardware systems CD-ROMs are designed to run on; (5) prices; and (6) multimedia products. Possible future developments that could revolutionize…

Guidelines for library automation include information on currently available microcomputer-based software products appropriate for small libraries and integrated systems for the larger libraries that can afford them. Costs, capabilities, functions, and vendor service are discussed, and a directory of vendors is included. (CDD)

Survey of currently available CD-ROM products discusses: (1) subject orientation; (2) database type; (3) update frequency; (4) price structure; (5) hardware configuration; (6) retrieval software; and (7) publisher/marketer. Several graphs depict data in these areas. (five references) (MES)

Describes the value and use of In-Search, an access software program designed to make online searches simpler--and less costly--for Dialog users by helping them to decide on a search strategy before signing online. (MBR)

Describes the Kodak Picture Exchange that includes a database of over 200,000 photographic images collected from 28 stock photography companies in the United States that allows the user to search for images by topic. Highlights include installing the software, alternative search strategies, costs, manipulating images, and rules governing the use…

This digest reviews three CD-ROM (compact disc-read only memory) versions of the ERIC (Educational Resources Information Center) database currently being delivered or tested and provides information for comparison. However, no attempt is made to recommend any one product. The advantages and disadvantages of the acquisition of CD-ROM databases are…

The market availability of optical storage technology will radically change the nature of information distribution, especially by reducing the high cost of mass data storage. The three general classes of optical storage are: (1) mass-produced read-only storage, (2) write-once storage, and (3) erasable optical storage. (CDD)

Discusses microcomputer software designed specifically to be used in the online bibliographic database search process. The specialized communications software discussed includes programs that aid in database selection, logging on, uploading, searching, downloading, post-processing, and recordkeeping. A directory of specialized communications…

This paper summarizes information about using computer hardware and software to aid in making purchase decisions that are based on user needs. The two major options in hardware are IBM-compatible machines and the Apple Macintosh line. The three basic software applications include word processing, database management, and spreadsheet applications.…

This list of 126 software programs includes the title, description, producer or address to contact for additional information, system requirements, and cost. Programs listed are categorized by the following library functions: audiovisual catalog, audiovisual equipment inventory, bibliographies, catalog card printing, circulation and overdues,…

Examines issues that librarians must address when purchasing databases on CD-ROM for networking. Highlights include network licenses; costs; restrictions on network rights; ownership of CD-ROMs; hardware requirements; fees for upgrading software; CD-ROM servers; pricing options; training materials; and disk drives. (LRW)

This bibliography lists 371 selected citations to materials on CD-ROM technology and its applications. The first section includes journal articles subdivided by topical areas: (1) General; (2) Online Public Access Catalogs; (3) MEDLINE; (4) Bibliographies/Directories; (5) Hardware/Software; (6) Cost/Economics; (7) Databases; (8) Publishing; (9)…