Sophisticated managers know that reams of data cannot take the place of important information. Planning is necessary to ensure that what is being reported in an organization is necessary and useful and that data are not assembled just because the computer makes it possible. (MLF)

The ability of operating departments of an institution to mechanically gather, summarize, and report "local" data is discussed. Problems are outlined that arise when departments have the ability to produce data and do so with rigorous quality control by the institution's central information management organization. (MLW)

Examines the beginnings of office automation from the development of the typewriter; describes the productivity crisis in American offices; and looks at the future of the changing office environment. (SK)

Describes the provisions of the bill and provides comments of information professionals from government, industry, and academia on the proposed Institute for Information Policy and Research. These include a plea for more funding, an expanded role for the National Telecommunications and Information Administration, and development of a trained…

Assesses the effect of the communications technology revolution on library and information specialists and the environment for the delivery of library services. Four functions affecting the library and information environment--management, communications, instruction, and publication--are noted. (EJS)

Suggests a unified concept of a lexical subsystem as part of an information system to deal with lexical problems in local and network environments. The linguistic and control functions of the lexical subsystems in solving problems for large computer systems are described, and references are included. (Author/BK)

Reviews the historical development of libraries and the evolution of the information industry to describe the impact of information technology upon libraries. Opportunities for librarians are illustrated by practical suggestions for transition from a library to an information context. (RAA)

Discusses the societal implications of advanced information technology, focusing on ethical questions and the personal responsibility of the information professional in designing information systems. (FM)

New legislation should ensure the development of an information system to identify priorities in vocational education related to occupational forecasts. Information on employment needs is essential to good educational planning. (JOW)

Europe's lag in databanks and online commercial availability is contrasted to its lead in numbers of bibliographic files. Intelligent use of new technologies such as Viewdata and the European Communications Satellite are expected to correct this imbalance. (RAA)

Examines the fragmentation, political control, and paternalism involved in communications policy making in Western Europe. These characteristics are evident in broadcasting, the postal service, telecommunications, and the press. (JMF)

Describes limitations inherent in traditional computerized information systems in school districts. Characteristics of more flexible, humanistic systems are described, and techniques for utilizing new technology to establish such systems are discussed. Emphasis is placed upon the changing role of nontechnicians with respect to direct communication…

Examines the relationship between librarians and information industry professionals, and outlines the types of systems and services which characterize the growing role of the information industry in contemporary society. (FM)

Discusses the present information age and considers ways in which government information can be better managed. Government information systems in the areas of economic statistics, educational statistics, and health statistics are examined; paperwork reduction efforts are described; and improving information resources management is discussed with…

Uses examples from military strategic communications to demonstrate that organizational structures and the distribution of power within organizational structures adapt to changes in information handling capability. It is concluded that delegation and decentralization can be viewed as indicative of inadequate information handling and that improved…