Discusses the need for computer assisted strategies to search multiple databases. A method is presented in which a pool of predefined searches is set up and a strategy is developed to identify an optimal search path. The application of this method is illustrated using a search carried out in seven databases. (11 references) (CLB)

Using the experience of Ford Motor Company, Oscar Meyer, and IBM, this article shows that companies are enjoying high quality product performance and substantially lower costs by converting from premium white bond computer stock forms to blended bond forms. School administrators are advised to do likewise. (MLH)

Reviews the status of photostats and microfilm at the New York Public Library, including evaluations of the demand for each and the relationship between the two forms during the 1930s, 1940s, and 1950s. Reasons why the two forms continue to coexist--even though it was predicted that microfilm would replace photostats--are discussed. (24…

To help educators evaluate the cost effectiveness of their district's reading program, this article shows how New Haven (Connecticut) Public Schools approached five crucial factors: creating an environment conducive to reading, organizing and managing a reading program, staffing the program, selecting and using materials, and fostering reading…

Describes a management training project at GTE Corporation that aimed to improve the quality of every product and service they offered. (JOW)

The author reviews current literature related to cost-benefit analysis of employee training programs. After the necessary concepts are defined, methodologies for measuring costs and benefits, and problems related to this process are discussed. Concluding comments focus on the need for practical applications of cost-benefit research. (Author/CH)

Proposes a cost/benefit model coupled with a decision tree for determining normal forms, which are used in information systems development processes to group data into well-refined structures. The three primary variables that impact the benefits and costs of normalization (reduced anomalies, storage requirements, and transaction response times)…

Presents theoretical integration of recent contributions to psychological intervention literature as they relate to consultation. Describes synthesis under rubric of Functional Outcome Analysis. Describes methods of assessing intervention costs and benefits and their distribution. Describes quantification of intervention efficiency and potential…

Responds to previous article (Noell and Gresham, this issue) on Functional Outcome Analysis (FOA) as important construct for evaluation of consultation and prereferral interventions. Notes that, practically speaking, one must wonder if information gleaned from FOA is worth costs. Addresses perceived scientific and practical merits of FOA. (NB)

Responds to previous article (Noell and Gresham, this issue) on Functional Outcome Analysis (FOA) as important construct for evaluation of consultation and prereferral interventions. Sees core question being utility of most prominent alternative service delivery model for school psychologists, that of prereferral interventions/problem-solving…

Notes that, very early in program planning, budgets are estimated for major program components, including evaluation. Proposes heuristic for establishing reasonable evaluation estimates in initial planning. Describes logical sources of information from which to construct such a heuristic. Recommends that, for typical programs and projects, initial…

Offers three clinical guidelines designed to deliver quality chemical dependency care that is cost effective: use least restrictive level of care most likely to initiate abstinence; assess likelihood of treatment failure at level of care chosen and risks to client if treatment fails; and identify treatment failure quickly and move client to more…

Cost-benefit analysis of 59 case studies of Australian employers indicates that companies incur considerable net costs (wages and staff time) in training apprentices. These costs decline over the term of the apprenticeship. Vast variation in costs is due to individual company characteristics. (SK)

Describes the use of sample surveys to estimate the amount of time spent volunteering. States that it is necessary to estimate the number of hours involved and to establish an appropriate value per hour. (SK)

This commentary on a study comparing use of the brand-name drug Depakene with generic valproic acid to control seizures in people with mental retardation notes the importance of distinguishing between Depakene and Depakote, which is an enteric-coated formulation for which there is no generic form currently available. (DB)