A Mathematical model for use in studying how to minimize the cost of operating a mechanized retrieval system is developed. Through the use of cost analysis, the model provides a method for comparative evaluation between information retrieval systems. (15 references) (Author/SJ)

The research reported here deals with the formulation and subsequent evaluation of different promotional programs for a batch-processed current awareness service provided by the Mechanized Information Center (MIC) at Ohio State University. (7 references) (Author)

A distinction is made between cost-effectiveness analysis and cost-benefits analysis as applied to information systems; and the relationship between costs, performance, and benefits is discussed. (Author)

Reviews the use of signatures to improve the performance of text searching and considers the use of signature trees to further accelerate text searching. Based on the analysis of experimental results, it is concluded that the improvement in text searching performance using signature trees outweighs the increase in required storage. (12 references)…

An analytical model for a cost-effectiveness approach to the journal disposition problem is presented. An example based on data from a real university special library situation is presented. (Author/PF)

An analysis to ascertain which electronic data processing (EDP) systems are most flexible in processing wide ranges of volumes efficiently. A simulation model of the job environment of three common EDP systems provides information on the shape of their cost functions in the neighborhood of optimality. (Author/LS)

Arguments for and against library service fees for users are presented, and models for setting such fees are illustrated in terms of profit maximization and maximization of user benefits. (FM)

The cost effectiveness of several commercial data bases, journal scanning by information scientists, and the impact of private communication are compared in this study. A previously developed technique for measuring the usefulness of commercial data bases is utilized. (21 references) (Author/KE)

Activities within a library are combined with the library's floor plan to develop a model of the library as a network of queues. This model can be used to predict average patron processing times and costs as they are affected by demand characteristics and floor plan variations. (Author/FM)

A comparative study of the cost effectiveness of retrospective manual and on-line bibliographic searching is described. Individual task times for question analysis, searching, photocopying, shelving and output distribution were measured, and component costs for labor, information, reproduction, physical space and telecommunications calculated. The…

In part I (JASIS, March-April 1973) the author proposed a methodology for evaluating a retrieval system based on how much users are willing to pay to use the system. Part II sets forth steps in testing the methodology through the analysis of underlying assumptions and through experimentation. (3 references) (Author/RS)

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)

Views assessment of "Costs of Electronic Reference Resources" both in a general descriptive framework and within the context of a specific model for costing of library operations and services called LCM, the Library Costing Model. Examples of costing data uses are provided, and categories of costs are related to types of electronic…

The on-line serials control system in use at the UCLA Biomedical Library is compared with former batch processing and manual procedures. It is evaluated in terms of performance, user satisfaction and costs, and is shown to be superior in these respects. The system makes possible increased productivity and savings. (8 references) (Author/KE)

Defines the domains that specific hypertext environments (DSHE) represent and examines DSHE for the domains of journal and book publishing, insurance policy management, and software engineering. The discussion covers seven dimensions along which the power of DSHE can be defined; organizational costs; and topics for further investigation. (27…