The benefits of prototyping as a basis for system design include better specifications, earlier discovery of omissions and extensions, and the likelihood of salvaging much of the effort expended on the prototype. Risks and methods of prototyping during rapid systems development are also noted. (Author/MLW)

This in-depth look at database management systems (DBMS) for microcomputers covers data entry, information retrieval, security, DBMS software and design, and downloading of literature search results. The advantages of in-house systems versus online search vendors are discussed, and specifications of three software packages and 14 sources are…

Traces history of the ERIC Clearinghouse on Reading and Communication Skills (originally Clearinghouse on Teaching of English) from 1967 to 1979 at the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE). Highlights include starting operations, three functions of an ERIC Clearinghouse (acquisitions and selection, information analysis, user services),…

Reviews the concept, present operations, and problems of information systems in general, and in probation administration specifically. Describes two different models of information systems-administrative management information systems and caseload management information systems. Explores the feasibility of statewide, multi-state, and nationwide…

Issues in determining how to develop a data communications system at colleges and universities are discussed including; technical requirements; cost; implications for coordination and (de)centralization of hardware/software; deciding when to create a data network; data security, information integrity, and organizational development. (Author/MLW)

The technology of integrating microcomputers into mainframe computing networks is difficult. The functional needs that users have for micro/mainframe linkage are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Discusses the management applications of three categories of software: word processing, electronic spreadsheets, and database management systems. Maintains that most administrative tasks can be facilitated with one or more of these systems. Describes the impact of microcomputers on administration at Chipola Junior College. (DMM)

Addresses problems encountered by a library when considering, selecting, and contracting for an automated library system. Topics covered include information needed by the vendor (size of database, volume of transactions, and acceptable response times), reasons why libraries and vendors have failed, and possible solutions. Six sources are given.…

Faced with deteriorating buildings, overcrowding, an inadequate budget, and government regulations, Columbia University needed data to support facility management decisions. After contacting organizations with similar facilities, the unviersity chose a space inventory database program developed by MIT for a consortium of academic, medical, and…

Espouses two causes reflecting author's involvement with information science over past decade: design of transparent systems to allow potential of automated retrieval systems to be realized by end users; promotion of information science as respected field of endeavor and area worthy of research. Information retrieval and systems research are…

This second of a three-part series compares search features (i.e., truncation symbols, boolean operators, proximity operators, phrase searching, save searches) of two databases providing legal information. Search tips concerning charges and effective searching and tables listing functions of commands and proximity operators for both databases are…

Describes the benefits and how to set up a georeferenced information system that contains standard student demographic data, the geographical location of each student, selected geographic location descriptors, growth factors attached to various land sections, and land usage and zoning. (MLF)

Computing began at Rice University with the first computer project on campus about 1958. In 1960 a computer center was formed. Today's Institute for Computer Services and Applications serves Rice administration, departments, faculty, and students by writing systems, maintaining files, entering data, retrieving information, etc. (MLW)

The evolution of administrative data processing systems at the University of Georgia is summarized. Nolan's revised stage model was used as a framework to present the university's experience and relate it to the growing body of system implementation research. (Author/MLW)

This paper defines "corporate culture" (set of values and beliefs shared by people working in an organization which represents employees' collective judgments about future) and discusses importance of corporate culture, nature of corporate cultures in business and academia, and role of information in shaping present and future corporate…