It is proposed that market research needn't be formal but can be useful. Suggestions include using a variety of existing information sources; conducting focus groups; using readership surveys of school publications; paying attention to the timing of surveys; and sharing results with others who can use it. (MSE)

The Higher Education Information System (HIS) is Germany's publicly financed service institution serving higher education. One of its functions is to act as a clearinghouse for computer software for higher education. The evolution, role and mission, founding principles, and services of HIS in this capacity are explained. (Author/MSE)

Development of the newly federally authorized National Research and Education Network should offer administrative computing and communications organizations at institutions of higher education new levels of network capacity, connectivity, and reliability. Administrative applications will include improved professional communications, sharing of…

This article describes Arizona State University's solution to security risk inherent in general access systems such as TCP/IP (Transmission Control Protocol/INTERNET Protocol). Advantages and disadvantages of various options are compared, and the process of selecting a log-on authentication approach involving generation of a different password at…

Discussion of problems that organizations face regarding the selection, management, and accession of information services focuses on the extent to which document information systems (DIS) and text management systems (TMS) can improve the management and accessibility of information sources. Examples of TMS applications are described. (11…

Discusses issues connected with developing information systems for competitive intelligence support; defines the elements of an effective competitive information system; and summarizes issues affecting system design and implementation. Highlights include intelligence information; information needs; information sources; decision making; and…

Describes the history of automation at the Harvard University Art Museums, the collaboration between the museum and a vendor in developing a collections management system, and the current status of the project from the museum's perspective. Topics include imaging technology and image management; file structure; and management of change. (LRW)

Evidence presented suggests that indicator systems monitor what is valued and that teachers teach what is monitored. That which is monitored is bound by time, context, and politics. Indicators should embody the best knowledge and democratic values, which has not always been the case, to result in educational improvement. (SLD)

It is argued that monitoring through indicator systems is the way to keep education on track. An example of an indicator system in England is described, with emphasis on use of the system related to classroom processes. Rationale for an indicator system and the A-Level Information System are described. (SLD)

Defines the Integrated Information Center (IIC) as an emerging information technology-intensive environment which captures, integrates, and provides information resources to academic departments. Sample IIC configurations are described--i.e., expertise poor/technology poor; expertise rich/technology poor; expertise poor/technology rich; expertise…

The Georgia Southern University admissions office implemented Total Quality Management (TQM) principles to control the quality of information management. It is suggested that, although TQM is used best on an institutionwide basis, it can also be useful in improving quality, reducing cost, increasing productivity, and achieving competitiveness on a…

The paper addresses the potential of informatics to patient care quality assurance curricula, focusing on (1) terminology and developments related to quality of care evaluations; (2) criticisms of traditional approaches; (3) limitations of existing data sources for quality assurance in dentistry; and (4) quality assurance considerations in…

Describes a method of analyzing serials collections in special libraries that combines evaluative criteria with database management technology. Choice of computer software is discussed, qualitative information used to evaluate subject coverage is examined, and quantitative and descriptive data that can be used for collection management are…

Describes two experiments that were conducted at the University of Illinois to determine how cognitive abilities of users of information retrieval systems and specific design features combine to create system usability. Logical reasoning and perceptual speed are examined, and reliability and validity are discussed. (Contains 12 references.) (LRW)

Proposes a method of evaluating information retrieval systems by concentrating on individual tools (commands, their menus or graphic interface equivalents, or a move/stratagem). A user would assess the relative success of a small part of a search, and every tool used in that part would be credited with a contribution to the result. Cumulative…