A recently developed cost-effectiveness model for on-line retrieval systems is discussed through use of an example utilizing performance results collected from several independent sources and cost data derived for a recently completed study for the American Psychological Association. One of the primary attributes of the model rests in its great…

Examines various ways of dividing the labor of an information search between the person and the system. Different configurations of two dimensions--degree of system involvement in searching and types of search activity carried out by the person or system--are discussed. Recommendations for further research and development are offered. (49…

Describes an information system interface that allows specification of uncertain queries and combines evidence about the relevance of documents to produce an overall ranking. Results of an experiment that addressed some of the cognitive aspects of such an interface are also reported. (22 references) (Author/MES)

Examines the implications of incorporating user-centered design within information systems design practices. Highlights include a definition of user-centered design based on human-computer interface; questions asked about users, including outcome, process, and task variables; and three criteria for when to use this approach in information systems…

Discusses human-computer interfaces in information seeking that focus on end users, and provides an overview of articles in this section that (1) provide librarians and information specialists with guidelines for selecting information-seeking systems; (2) provide producers of information systems with directions for production or research; and (3)…

Described is a complete and technical description of one component of the Information System for Vocational Decisions (ISVD) total data storage and access system. Both a verbal and a graphic flow chart of its functions within the system are presented. (TL)

Presents an overview of the IR-NLI II system, an expert interface that allows users to access online information retrieval systems and that encompasses user modeling capabilities. Highlights include the design of the system, the structure and content of stereotypes that represent typical classes of users, and construction of user models.…

Examines some of the specifics of the Stanley House criteria for humanizing information systems. (IRT)

The focus of this article is on the human interaction characteristics of an information retrieval system, some design considerations to improve man-machine cooperation, and a research system at Stanford that is exploring some of these techniques. (55 references) (Author/NH)

Presents three current areas of research in human relations at Harvard University which may help solve the problems professionals face due to widespread introduction of new information technologies into the work environment. These include organizational learning, information mapping, and principled negotiation. (CT)

Augmentation systems are composed of things that will add to what the human is genetically endowed with in order to extend the net capabilities that a human or human organization can apply to the problems or goals of human society. A broad brush categorization of the components of an augmentation system includes three distinct though interacting…

From the standpoint of information network technology there is a necessary emphasis upon compatibility requirements which, in turn, will be met at least in part by various techniques of achieving convertibility --- between machine and machine, between man and machine, and between man and man. It may be hoped that improved compatibilities between…

This discussion of three automated acquisitions systems--Bib-Base/Acq, The Book Trak Ordering System, and Card Datalog Acquisitions Module--covers searching and updating, editing, acquisitions functions and statistics, purchase orders and order file, budgeting and accounts maintenance, defining parameters, documentation, security, printing, and…

Describes the sixth Nebraska Videodisc Symposium (September 30-October 3, 1985). This convocation of interactive video programs and professionals included Nebraska Awards (Best Consumer Achievement, Best Educational Achievement, Best Data Bank Achievement, Best Industrial Training Achievement, Best Overall Achievement, Special Recognition);…