Assesses the changes in interlibrary loan (ILL) practices, and points the way to an ideal future. Discusses patron-initiated document request systems; library-mediated ordering systems; document delivery suppliers; accessing electronic resources; ILL management software; paying ILL invoices; new electronic delivery options; and results of a…

Discussion of the growth of online courses in higher education and outsourcing for online course development focuses on the work of VCampus, an application service provider that develops online instruction for corporations and academic institutions. Discusses partnering arrangements; merging goals; intellectual property rights; marketing plans;…

Describes a project at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas that evaluated the effects of an unmediated document delivery service. Discusses interlibrary loans, staffing, user satisfaction, choice of document supplier, and user training; and suggests questions to consider when deciding whether to offer this service. (LRW)

Describes methods of correcting MARC records in online public access catalogs in school libraries. Highlights include in-house methods; professional resources; conforming to library cataloging standards; vendor services, including Web-based services; software specifically developed for record cleanup; and outsourcing. (LRW)

Attention has been focused on critical shortages of information technology professionals. These shortages have begun to affect the ability of state and local governments to perform core operations, meet new agency program needs and support the development of new enterprise-wide capacities. The shortages are not expected to disappear any time soon.…

This module presents information to administrators and teachers planning to use telecommunications in the business and office curriculum in grades 9-12. It accompanies three modules designed for use in three courses in which a unit on telecommunications can be taught. The module addresses four major needs. The first section discusses required…

This thesis charts the development of a reference guide to searchable fields in the ERIC online database including identifying a target audience, planning and preparation of drafts, testing drafts with experienced online searchers and students, incorporating suggestions, and preparing and distributing the final version of the guide. The thesis…

This review of new developments and products in online services discusses trends in travel related services; full text databases; statistical source databases; an emphasis on regional and international business news; and user friendly systems. (Author/CLB)

Recent trends in the pricing of online database systems are described and their impact on searcher behavior and satisfaction is discussed. A design is proposed for a major research project that would use data gathered by the Information Market Indicators to assess the feasibility of a price-based solution. (CLB)

Reviews the literature on user studies in both online catalogs and bibliographic retrieval systems. User problems with both mechanical and conceptual aspects are reviewed and potential sources of problems due either to individual characteristics or system variables are discussed. Possible solutions and areas that need further research are noted.…

There are a variety of reasons which prevent users from making the most of information products. The practitioner must keep current with the myriad of information sources available and try to stay aware of changes in coverage. This paper categorizes the types of data in a large financial institution as follows: press sources, mergers and…

After a period of slow growth, companies that provide business news to the manager's desktop PC are now among the most rapidly growing companies in the United States information industry. Well established companies such as Desktop Data and Individual, Inc. are now being joined by a number of new services and by enhanced versions of existing…

Until recently, the World Wide Web (WWW) public access search engines have not included many of the advanced commands, options, and features commonly available with the for-profit online database user interfaces, such as DIALOG. This study evaluates the features and characteristics common to both types of search interfaces, examines the Web search…

This book seeks to guide information providers in establishing accessible World Wide Web sites and acquiring the hardware and software needed by people with disabilities, focusing on access to the Internet using large print, voice, and Braille. The book also covers how to acquire the funds for adaptive technology, what type of equipment to choose,…

Explains the unique benefits of using simulation software in place of physical experiments testing in high school science. Supplies detailed examples of students' usage. A sidebar presents vendors of simulation packages. (AEF)