Disruptive technologies, such as mobile applications development, will always present a dilemma for Information Systems educators as dominant paradigms in our environment will tend to favor the existing sustaining technologies that we have become known for in our discipline. In light of this friction, we share our approach in investigating and…

Examines two methods of generating synthetic speech in voice response systems, which allow computers to communicate in human terms (speech), using human interface devices (ears): phoneme and reconstructed voice systems. Considerations prior to implementation, current and potential applications, glossary, directory, and introduction to Input Output…

Discusses technological developments causing changes in personal information systems: increase in commercial support services; proliferation of microcomputers; capability to download from secondary services into private files; and developing desire to utilize functions such as electronic mail and automated office functions. Appendices list 21…

Reviews computer applications in judicial, legal, and legislative information activities being used to support litigation and court administration, assist in searching for legislation and laws, aid criminal justice information systems, and provide appropriate bibliographic and reference assistance. Management issues in automating systems are…

Important features of local area networks (LAN) are reviewed, and several microcomputer LANs are described (ARCnet, Hinet, ShareNet, Ethernet, Omninet, PLAN 4000). Results of survey of 10 libraries using or planning to use a microcomputer LAN and considerations in choosing a LAN are reported. Forty-one references are cited. (EJS)

Thoughts on planning, from the perspective of managers/administrators are presented. Eleven steps of the planning process are identified: statement of objective, proposal outline, management approval, organization, outline of plan, organization of data, evaluation of data, formulation of conclusions, review of draft plan, preparation of plan, and…

Presents an overview of computer based library networks, what they are and are not, and their advantages and disadvantages. (JEG)

Identifies weaknesses of conceptual modelling languages for the problem domain of information systems (IS) development. Outlines an approach called facet modelling of real-world problem domains to deal with the complexity of contemporary analysis problems. Shows how facet models can be defined and visualized; discusses facet modelling in relation…

Yale University (Connecticut) uses a "constructive evolution" method of coping with maintenance and fine-tuning of aging information systems. In this process, system developers form partnerships with user department representatives to plan and coordinate system changes. Evolution of the personnel/payroll system over five years provides…

Discusses the nature and current state of knowledge-based systems and expert systems. Describes an expert system from the viewpoints of a computer programmer and an applications expert. Addresses concerns related to materials selection and forecasts future developments in the teaching of materials engineering. (ML)

The question "Can a machine counsel" asks not if a machine can imitate the behavior of counselors, but rather if an identity of goals can be achieved between machine and counselor. If the goal of counseling is the discovering and internalizing of problem-solving processes, is it possible to create ".....a machine environment such than an…

Description of the computerized information system that supports the editorial and manufacturing processes involved in creation of Wilson's subject indexes and catalogs includes the major subsystems--online data entry, batch input processing, validation and release, file generation and database management, online and offline retrieval, publication…

The implementation of a microcomputer-based student advising system and its evolution into a successful academic network providing electronic mail, document transfer, information access, and a powerful advising tool are described. (Author/MSE)

An information view of history is proposed. This would include the study of information and communication technologies as products of communal human labor. The late 19th-century United States is suggested as a critical period for innovation in modern information technologies. (Author)

Curriculum planners and educators continuously need the latest information on employment trends and workplace skills to assist them with validating, updating, changing, expanding, or revising the courses in the office occupations programs to reflect the most important skills needed. The purpose of this study was to identify the skills that need to…