Adapting the principles that have evolved in the development of heraldry to current needs, an algorithm was developed to aid in the description of graphic designs. It provides an efficient method of describing trademarks, logos, and other designs so that they can be found quickly using mechanical searching techniques. (26 references) (EAM)

The issue of free-text versus controlled vocabulary is examined. The history of the issue, which is seen as beginning with the debate over title term indexing in the nineteenth century, is reviewed and questions not satisfactorily addressed by previous research are raised. (Author/EM)

Describes the history, scope, and applications of the Chemical Abstracts Service Chemical Registry System, a computerized database that uniquely identifies chemical substances on the basis of their molecular structures. Explains searching the system is and discusses its use as an international resource. (66 references) (Author/LRW)

The first 10 years of 2 journals on online searching are compared in terms of vital statistics, editorial policies, citation data, author affiliations, subject analysis of titles, circulation, impact factors, and immediacy using data from SSCI Journal Citation Reports. (EAM)

Looks briefly at the history of World Wide Web search engine development and considers the current state of affairs. Reflects on future directions in terms of personalization, summarization, query expansion, coverage, and metadata. (Author/AEF)

Provides overview of design requirements for transparent information retrieval (implies that user sees through complexity of retrieval activities sequence). Highlights include need for transparent systems; history of transparent retrieval research; information retrieval functions (automated converters, routers, selectors, evaluators/analyzers);…

Describes the CD-ROM version of the "Congressional Masterfile," a comprehensive index of congressional committee reports and prints, hearings, and documents from 1789 to the present. The description of this product includes hardware and software considerations, user aids, and search options. The Masterfile CD-ROM is compared to print…

Describes the historical development of online information retrieval systems and services. Gives an overview of the three pioneer groups of the online age: (1) programmers, system designers, and researchers; (2) managers, trainers, and custom service representatives; and (3) users. Also examines those individuals who made exceptional contributions…

Reviews the developments of the 1960s that laid the groundwork for computer-assisted literature searching (CALS), the establishment of CALS as a major research tool in the 1970s, and the advent of end-user online CALS programs in the 1980s. The impact of CD-ROM products on librarians and students, future prospects, and global concerns affecting…

Summarizes the growth of databases, including major milestones, issues, and trends of the past 20 years, during which time the database/online industry had become a large and thriving segment of the information industry. A time line overview of database developments from 1951 to 1985 is appended. (42 references) (EJS)

An overview of the development of CD-ROMs is presented. Aspects covered include changes in coverage, the use of CD-ROMs in libraries and information units, changes in search interfaces and growth in end-user searching, changes in CD-ROM publishers, and hardware and networking developments. (Author)

The author uses the concept of a technology-science cycle to review early research in coordinate indexing and online searching and to predict the future directions of information technology. (CLB)

Reviews the development of technological innovations in information delivery, including microforms, electronic processing, online distribution, full-text abstracts online, floppy disks, downloading, vertical integration, electronic publishing, and optical disks. The impact of technology on the information industry and the need to use technology…

Reviews the historical development of online information in libraries, including computers, software, and networks. Highlights include quotes from leaders in the field; the end-user movement; commercial products from vendors; the spread of the Internet and its effects on online companies and searchers; options on the World Wide Web; and future…

Reviews changes in online database searching in academic libraries. Topics include librarians conducting all searches; the advent of end-user searching and the need for user instruction; compact disk technology; online public catalogs; the Internet; full text databases; electronic information literacy; user education and the remote library user;…