The purpose of this book is to assist libraries and librarians in resolving some of the problems faced in utilizing the new computer technology. The intent is to provide a concrete, factual guide to the principles and methods available for the application of modern data processing to library operations. For the librarian it is a handbook to guide…

Criteria used by the Information Services Department in deciding on the feasibility of proposed computer applications are reviewed. Natural trends in the development of information systems are described. Suggestions are made for increasing the probability of developing a successful application and for insuring that subsequent applications will be…

This report of a conference convened by the Federal Library and Information Center Committee (FLICC) Subcommittee on Education provides brief summaries of four panel discussions conducted by 15 federal librarians who had assembled automation systems for their agencies' libraries and information centers. The first panel, consisting of Dean Hough,…

The dental profession can contribute to effective computer-based decision support through developing data standards and a comprehensive computerized patient record system that can be integrated with evolving health care decision support networks. (DB)

Overview of activities and issues that face library administrators considering automation emphasizes acquisition of turnkey systems. Discussion covers reasons for automating, options available, major marketplace issues, keys to a successful automation project, the Request for Information, the Request for Proposal, evaluation techniques, the…

Objectives of the study (summarized in Chapter I) were (1) to propose a task-oriented viewpoint in which the scientist actively participates as an integral part of the system in performing research tasks, (2) to identify major system planning decisions and criterion concepts for use in evaluation of proposed information systems, and (3) to…

The requisites for the development of sophisticated and meaningful information systems being applied in varying degrees in universities and colleges are discussed. It is suggested that a philosophy that provides for an adequate, reasonable amount of computer power for administrative use is mandatory, and that users should not be slaves to the…

This essay illustrates a technique for reducing the risks of capital investment decisions involving considerable sums for advanced technologies by considering its application to a problem that arises frequently in selection of automated library systems. Incomplete information, using available information, selecting a system, and consultants are…

Discusses the processes involved in migrating a library's automation system. Highlights include getting information from vendor demonstrations, setting up an evaluation database to analyze RFPs (requests for proposals), making a spreadsheet that compares costs of packages, making recommendations once the data are analyzed, and implementation…

The project of the Archivo General de Indias (AGI) in Seville, Spain has digitized more than 11 million of its pages of documents relating to Spanish history in the New World. This report illustrates the experience of the AGI, and the range of decisions that managers have faced throughout the project. Following an introduction and background…