Used the INSPEC database to compare two search options available on the DIALOG system for the purpose of establishing criteria to determine which of the alternatives would prove more cost effective than the other. (FM)

The method of handling the printed documentation associated with online information retrieval, which is described, involves the use of a series of separate but related files: database files, system files, network files, index sheets, and equipment files. (FM)

Analyzed data gathered from 78 online searchers to examine attitudes toward the use of DIALOG and SDC's ORBIT command languages. It was found that most users preferred DIALOG for ease of use. Twenty sources are listed. (FM)

Briefly describes the origin and development of some major online bibliographic utilities, including the Ohio College Library Center (OCLC), the Research Libraries Information Network (RLIN), the University of Toronto Library Automation Systems (UTLAS), and the Washington Library Network (WLN). (FM)

Presents a series of questions and answers pertaining to the relationship between the Ohio College Library Center (OCLC) and the Research Libraries Group (RLG) and touches on matters of policy and linkages. (FM)

Reports the findings of the SLA Information Technology Division's survey of database searchers regarding their opinions of current system capabilities and their requirements for future developments. Factors affecting use, text searching, standardized formats, and replacing print subscriptions with online services are discussed. The questionnaire…

A review of published studies reveals that the cost of comparable manual and online searches are approximately equal. Cost trends and the relative effectiveness of both methods are evaluated. A bibliography of 51 references is appended. (Author/RAA)

Classifies the types of online databases available through System Development Corporation (ORBIT) and Lockheed Information Systems (DIALOG) that access government information; briefly describes those which include access to government sources; and discusses in greater depth five databases which exclusively access U.S. Federal Government Documents.…

Concentrates on the practical, everyday aspects of online search strategy, specifically offering ideas and comments on search strategies for STAIRS users. Included are tables listing the logical operators available on the system and the search level (document, paragraph, sentence, word) of each. (Author/JD)

Provides a systematic guide for evaluation and selection of an online service vendor. Topics briefly considered include the availability of selection aids, cost, online services, system search capabilities, training services, file documentation, and complimentary services. A selective listing of database directories is provided. (Author/JD)

Addresses the problem of systematic biases which affect the way that individuals construct and modify search queries on online retrieval systems, and suggests a searching algorithm that helps to avoid the effect of those biases. (FM)

Examines the issue of OCLC benefits for special libraries in terms of find rates and suggests that special libraries consider OCLC participation when find rates are low. (FM)

Describes the origin and development of the NICEM (National Information Center for Educational Media) database and provides current information on bibliographic elements in the database entries, searchable indexes, searching, and search aids. Sample citations from NICEM subfiles are included. (JD)

Compares the user features of an in-house online search system based on automatic indexing with those of commercial search services, considering specific user types, file structure and applications, and the basic operating system environment. (FM)

Describes the advantages and drawbacks to high-speed conference searching and outlines the procedure for a standard conference search. (FM)