With the current state of computing and data communication technology, connecting widely dispersed, multivendor computing resources is a complex and expensive undertaking. Network strategies and management issues are discussed. (MLW)

Describes the Bradley Library Information Support System (BLISS), a comprehensive local area network designed to provide library users with electronic information access and management services to support Bradley University (Illinois). System architecture is explained; and six sidebars provide more detailed information on various services, the…

The rapid proliferation of personal computers on many campuses has raised a number of questions as to how best to support them. An approach based upon network service machines is discussed. These services include mail, printing, plotting, batch execution, file storage, etc. (Author/MLW)

The data communications requirements of California State University, Los Angeles, reflected in its proposals for an integrated voice/data communications system are described. The advantages and disadvantages of three data communications technologies--voice-and-data private branch exchange, data private branch exchange, and the local area…

Reports the results of a survey designed to determine the frequency and purpose of individuals' use of electronic mail in relation to their professional development. Survey was distributed using three newsletters found on BITNET. Finds that electronic mail is replacing other means of communication and stimulating new communication among diverse…

Discusses computer networking and the cost effectiveness of decentralization, including local area networks. A planned experiment with a centralized approach to the operation and management of file servers at the University of South Carolina is described that hopes to realize cost savings and the avoidance of staffing problems. (Contains four…

Describes present and future plans for the campuswide communications network at Case Western Reserve University (Ohio). Highlights include upgrading from baseband to broadband technologies; ATM (Asynchronous Transfer Mode)-based networks that allow simultaneous voice, video, and data transmission; strategic planning goals; implications for…

Explains light-wave communication and optical fibers. The impact of fiber optics on communication is discussed; uses of fiber optic technology in elementary, secondary, and higher education are described; and possible futures of light-wave communication are considered, including Integrated Services Digital Networks and the National Research and…

Examines the rationale for the development of educational computer networks and the potential consequences of the microcomputer revolution. Suggests that rather than being competitive, microcomputers and mainframes are complementary computing environments. (Author/IRT)

The Academic Computing Center at Winthrop College has gone beyond simple connectivity in linking its three local area networks to each other and the campus minicomputer. The environmental impact of the installation of bridges and gateways on systems, personnel, and end users is described. (MLW)

The installation of a local area network (LAN) to support two classrooms at Lehman College is described. The objectives were to improve the effectiveness of staff by reducing the time required for distributing and collecting diskettes and for maintenance of the diskette library, and to facilitate access to peripheral devices. (Author/MLW)

The evolution of value-added network services (VAN), current technology, and some of the major VAN vendors and types of services for universities are described. A network glossary is included. (MLW)

This ERIC Digest examines some of the trends and issues in academic information systems design and describes the policies of several universities that are taking creative advantage of these systems as educational tools. The current emphasis on microcomputers in campus information networks instead of terminals connected to a mainframe computer is…

"Waterloo MacJANET," a local area network developed by the University of Waterloo for the Apple Macintosh computer, provides an environment appropriate for developing students' computer-related skills, minimizing both the human and the computing resources needed to support such courses. The system also serves as an efficient distributor…

Micro-computers and local area networks are opening up new possibilities for streamlining the administrative support system of universities and decentralizing decision making. Such decentralization needs to be complemented by improved coordination between units responsible for different application systems. (Author/MLW)