The first section discusses two common styles of microcomputer consulting, when each is appropriate in libraries, and the dangers of using one type. The second section focuses on types of vaporware, the effects of each, and steps to minimize potential damage. A bibliography of this quarter's literature watch on microcomputer hardware and software…

Explains the Common Gateway Interface (CGI) protocol as a set of rules for passing information from a Web server to an external program such as a database search engine. Topics include advantages over traditional client/server solutions, limitations, sample library applications, and sources of information from the Internet. (LRW)

This guide lists more than 5,000 library-related computer services, resources, and supplies in the following sections: (1) products and services, including hardware and supplies, software, and services; (2) vendor products/services; (3) product names; (4) vendor addresses; and (5) consultant addresses. (MES)

Discusses MARC records and describes a HyperCard script that translates MARC records from a communications format into an easy-to-read tagged format. An appendix lists a script from a HyperCard program called "The MARC Reader," and it is suggested that it could represent the beginning of an automated catalog. (two references) (LRW)

Argues that the key reason for using the services of a library automation consultant is to obtain expertise not available in the library staff, and that the library must continuously evaluate the consulting process and provide feedback to the consultant. Related insights and perspectives of both librarians and library system vendors are provided.…

Describes a project control system for Indiana State University's Library Systems and Automation Department. Organizing project information, managing priorities, defining projects and recurring activities, time management, identifying tasks, and service requests are discussed. The management decision-making process for new, proposed, and completed…

Describes a study that was conducted to determine the filing rules used by depository libraries that shelve their documents by the SuDoc (Superintendent of Documents) classification scheme. Results are discussed in terms of creating an automated program to produce a shelf list of publications arranged by SuDoc numbers. (five references) (LRW)

Reports on a survey which assessed automated authority control capabilities of 18 vendors' automated library systems, software, or services. Graphs rank vendors according to overall score, authority record source, format/storage of authority records, database dynamics, matching/linking authority and bibliographic records, syndetic structure,…

Provides an overview of indexing in database management systems to provide librarians with more understanding of the possibilities and limitations of current information systems. Sequential, direct, indexed sequential, and virtual sequential file accessing methods are explained, and various binary tree structures are described. (EAM)

As technology becomes more pervasive and complex, employees who know how to use it are being tapped to train their colleagues. Novice trainers should not be expected to take on the role without guidance. (JOW)

Describes a procedure for automated-test-forms assembly based on Classical Test Theory (CTT). The procedure uses stratified random-content sampling and test-form preequating to ensure both content and psychometric equivalence in generating virtually unlimited parallel forms. Extends the usefulness of CTT in automated test construction. (Author/SLD)

Examines the impact of continued growth of information technologies on the business environment and business education. Outlines the knowledge worker's need for applied communication, math, technology, and basic business skills. (SK)

Describes ID Expert, an intelligent computer-based multimedia interactive instructional development and delivery system. Topics include instructional transactions with built-in instructional design; knowledge bases and knowledge representation; automated instructional design; and similarities to GTE (Generic Tutoring Environment). (Author/LRW)

Administrative office technology assessments were delivered via the Internet to 141 vocational students. Compared to 61 who took a paper test, scores for the Internet group were significantly higher; 62% preferred the Internet format. There were few problems with accessing, downloading, taking, and submitting the test. (SK)

The impact of digital check imaging technology on two bank departments was compared. In one, tasks that were not automated were subdivided into narrower jobs. In the other, managers combined multiple related tasks to create jobs of greater complexity. The consequences of technological change thus depended in part on management decisions. (Contains…