bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AN EXPLORATORY STUDY INTO THE APPLICABILITY OF WESTERN HRM PRACTICES IN DEVELOPING COUNTRIES: AN ALGERIAN CASE STUDY
Authors: Mellahi Kamel , Frynas Jedrzej George
Published: February 2008

This paper explores the issue of transferring western human resource management (HRM) practices to Algeria. Drawing on a case study of a large industrial company, the research identifies the motives for the transfer and examines the selection and implementation process of western HRM practices in Algeria. Evidence generated from the case study reveals that while management justifications for the transfer of western HRM practices capture the economic and technical rationale for western HRM practices, they fail to identify local conditions under which these HRM practices might be transferred. The applicability of western HRM is hindered by the unplanned and haphazard importation of western HRM practices.
EMPIRICAL EVIDENCE ON THE USE OF MANAGEMENT ACCOUNTING TECHNIQUES IN A SAMPLE OF SAUDI MANUFACTURING COMPANIES
Authors: El‐Ebaishi Mohammad , Karbhari Yusuf , Naser Kamal
Published: February 2008

This study examines the use of selected management accounting techniques by a sample of large and medium sized Saudi manufacturing companies. The analysis revealed that the vast majority of management accounting techniques that are the focus of this study are used. Traditional management accounting techniques are perceived to be important and are heavily used by participant companies. Although new management accounting techniques, such as ABC and JIT, are used by a limited number of participants, the result is in line with those reported by studies conducted in some developed countries.
THE IMPACT OF SEGMENTAL REPORTING DISCLOSURE ON A FIRM'S PERCEIVED RISK
Authors: Jahmani Yousef
Published: February 2008

This paper investigates the impact of line of business and geographical segments information disclosure on the firms' perceived risk when either of them is disclosed for the first time without prior segmental information. British data for both treatment and control groups were utilized and a dummy variable technique was employed in the study. The results show that the dummy variables in the treatment groups (line of business and geographical segments) were significant, but insignificant in the control group. The results indicate that the disclosure of line of business and geographical segment information does have an impact on a firm's perceived risk.
THE IMPACT OF THE TYPE OF STRATEGY ON ENVIRONMENTAL SCANNING ACTIVITIES IN THE BANKING INDUSTRY: AN INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE
Authors: Hagen Abdalla , Haile Semere , Maghrabi Ahmad
Published: February 2008

This study investigated the impact of the type of strategy on the type of environmental scanning activity of Egyptian CEOs at Egyptian banks. Results indicated that CEOs with a cost‐leadership strategy were involved in environmental scanning activities that provide information concerning threats. Their counterparts with a differentiation strategy were involved in environmental scanning activities that provide information concerning opportunities.
Universal Robotics Systems: Homebrew Developments in the Field
Authors: Prather Richard D.
Published: February 2008

Universal Robotics Systems is a small Palo Alto R&D company dedicated to the development of unique mechanical, electromechanical, and electronic devices for application to the fields of industrial robotics, robotics research, and rehabilitative robotics/ electronics. In the past 18 months, a number of projects have been brought to the working prototype stage. These are:
Computer Cat™ at Mountain View Elementary School
Authors: Armstrong Margaret , Costa Betty
Published: February 2008

The computer‐based card catalog of Mountain View Elementary School, Broomfield, CO, is described. This system is compared to the traditional card catalog. Younger children find it easier to use than traditional card catalogs. An implementation schedule and further information sources are included.
Spreadsheet Models of Library Activities
Authors: Cummings Miller Bruce
Published: February 2008

A general description of microcomputer‐based spreadsheet software capabilities and their usefulness in library management analysis and planning are presented. Five specific spreadsheet models which apply to retrospective conversion cost and scheduling, COM and book catalog costs, and acquisitions processing costs are discussed. Models are displayed in self‐contained notation permitting them to be duplicated in the user's particular spreadsheet software. The user may then input a library's variable key assumptions to simulate comparative costs.
Selecting a Retrospective Conversion Vendor
Authors: Lisowski Andrew , Sessions Judith
Published: February 2008

Contracting with a vendor to provide retrospective conversion services is an often considered alternative to an inhouse project. George Washington University's Gelman Library has used several vendors to augment its retrospective conversion project, depending upon the requirements of the project at a particular time. It is from this experience that this paper will seek to answer such questions as: when should a library consider using a conversion vendor; what methodologies are available from them; and what factors should be considered before selecting the vendor?
“Dear PPO5”
Authors: Porter Peggy
Published: February 2008

Electronic mail (EMS) is a new and increasingly common mechanism for communication. How computer‐mediated communication affects human behavior has become the focus of research and of commentary in the popular press. An etiquette or rules of conduct when using EMS appears to be needed. Suggestions are offered based on experience utilizing an electronic mail system for intra‐organizational communication in the Carnegie‐Mellon University Libraries.
End‐User Searching of Online Databases: A Selective Annotated Bibliography
Authors: Lyon Sally
Published: February 2008

Literature related to end‐user searching of online databases is cited and annotated. Questions such as the role of the librarian/intermediary, the cost effectiveness of end‐user searching, and the training of end‐user searchers are addressed by the cited literature. Articles and conference papers from 1981–1984 are covered.
ALANET: Building an Electronic Information Service
Authors: Lee Joel M.
Published: February 2008

Using ALANET as the example, the steps and procedures of establishing an electronic mail service are described. The goals of the service are defined, including improved access to the resources of ALA. Support features, such as bulletin boards and electronic newsletters, and the need for flexibility in meeting the unanticipated needs of members are stressed.
Authoring Systems: The Key to Widespread Use of Interactive Videodisc Technology
Authors: Sinnett Dennis , Edwards Sheila
Published: February 2008

The attributes of laser discs are reviewed, as are the “traditional” objections to the use of audiovisual materials — including their lack of specificity to precise objectives. Use of authoring systems is described as a means of tailoring laser disc programs to meet those precise objectives, as well as updating aging materials. The flexibility and power of the Video Nova Authoring System is explained and illustrated. A sidebar at the end of the article evaluates the Sony SMC‐70 microcomputer.
Common Sense and Computer Magazines, or, What's the Good Word, Part 1: Periodicals
Authors: Crawford Walt
Published: February 2008

Microcomputer magazines can be an important source for learning about microcomputers and for increasing awareness about new hardware and software. Hundreds of microcomputer magazines and newsletters exist, including 60 or so that can be found at newsstands. Those 60 microcomputer magazines, encountered during September 1984, are broken down by specific computer coverage, and 22 are reviewed. Eight magazines are recommended for most libraries; recommendations for users are included in the ratings, with a list of five that should satisfy most interested users.
Open Systems Interconnection
Authors: Denenberg Ray
Published: February 2008

The need for standards allowing computer‐to‐computer communication, and examples of technical issues are discussed. The framework of the Open Systems Interconnection Reference Model, consisting of seven layers, each performing a distinct and defined function, is explained and illustrated. Sidebars feature: 1) public data networks and X.25, 2) OSI standards, and 3) the OSI layer functions. A glossary is included.
The Macintosh Office: “Software for the Rest of Us”?
Authors: Kibbey Mark
Published: February 2008

The characteristics of an effective office system, such as simplicity and familiarity, are described. The application‐experience of control designers is also reviewed as another basis for evaluating the design of microcomputer software features. Packages from various software developers (for the Macintosh computer) are reviewed for features that facilitate ease of learning and use.
BLIS: Biblio‐Techniques Library and Information System
Authors: Stucki Curtis W.
Published: February 2008

The Western Library Network software, installed at such libraries and networks as the National Library of Australia, the National Library of New Zealand, The British Library and the Universities of Illinois and Missouri, is also available through Biblio‐Techniques as a fully vendor‐supported system called BLIS. Currently installed at six major research libraries, BLIS supports an online union catalog; a catalog management facility, including authority control, acquisitions, and accounting control. Circulation and other modules are under development.
Integrated Library Systems for Small Libraries: Estimating the Cost
Authors: Havercamp Dan
Published: February 2008

The small library frequently presents an inadequate justification for the installation of an integrated library system. The “average” costs of system components—including hardware, software, and related expenses—are outlined to assist in projecting the costs of a small system. The potential benefits of a system—the areas in which operational costs can be reduced through the use of an integrated library system—are also reviewed. The realistic projecting of costs and potential long‐term savings (through increased performance and efficiency) will form the basis for justifying an integrated library system.
What Lies Beyond the Online Catalog?
Authors: Drabenstott Jon
Published: February 2008

Five prominent consultants look into the future, projecting technological advancements that, in some cases, will enhance current library systems, and in many cases will cause them to become obsolete. Major trends include advances in mainframe and microcomputing technology, the development of inexpensive local area networks and telecommunications gateways, and the advent of (mass) optical storage.
System Performance
Authors: Drabenstott Jon
Published: February 2008

Five prominent consultants—James Rush, Richard Smith, Susan Baerg Epstein, Jose‐Marie Griffiths, and Rob McGee—address the issues that most effect system performance. They note that virtually every phase of planning for a system involves issues related to performance. No single topic is more essential to the successful implementation of a system. Guidelines and advise are provided.
Automation and Ethics: A View from the Trenches
Authors: Stahl Wilson M.
Published: February 2008

It is important that librarians know that unethical practices occasionally have occurred, and will occur in the future, in the field of library automation. Some vendors have “low‐balled” a bid—undersized a system—in order to make a sale. Some have bid undeliverable products. Libraries have occasionally “wired” a request for proposal—stated required specifications so that only one vendor can qualify. Consultants have occasionally compromised their objectivity and independence. Examples of unethical practices are described, as are procedures that will help identify and prevent those practices in the future.
The Roles of the Future Library
Authors: Murr Lawrence E. , Williams James B.
Published: February 2008

“Library,” as a place, will give way to “library” as a transparent knowledge network providing “intelligent” services to business and education through both specialized librarians and emerging information technologies. Libraries will rely heavily on computers and peripherals to facilitate electronic document imaging, publishing, telecommunications, and information delivery in addition to networked collection management and reference services.
Moveable Compact Shelving: The Current Answer
Authors: Gorman Michael
Published: February 2008

The compact shelving discussed in this article is defined as moveable shelving driven, in the main, by electric power. The shelving eliminates all but one aisle in any set of ranges of shelving. Most such shelving moves in a perpendicular direction on rails mounted on the floor. Moveable compact shelving provides a successful permanent answer to the storage and preservation problems that afflict many libraries. Its advantages greatly outweigh its minor disadvantages. “Any library which installs such a system will find that it has made a prudent and cost‐effective investment.”
Technology's Impact on Library Interior Planning
Authors: Leroy Michaels David
Published: February 2008

Each component of a library requires careful planning so that precious financial resource are maximized, and future renovation costs minimized. Library administrators and governing boards need a realistic conceptualization of the future library, and a solid understanding of building sciences, prior to launching a new construction, renovation, or addition project. Reading, visits to other library facilities, and a spirit of teamwork and cooperation within the entire planning team will be vital, as always.
Networks: The Telecommunications Infrastructure and Impacts of Change
Authors: Learn Larry L.
Published: February 2008

This article reviews the telecommunications environment and infrastructure, discusses the major forces influencing change within this environment, and suggests certain likely outcomes, as seen by the author, that will have significant influences on the future telecommunications infrastructure. This information is then used as the basis for assessing likely impacts on various aspects of library and information systems, their providers and users. Specifically discussed are impacts foreseen for: 1) national online information providers; 2) local online information providers; 3) local and long‐distance telephone companies as providers of information; and 4) users of information. Impacts on library and information system‐related endeavors are seen to be generally unfavorable in the near term, with information delivery costs seen to rise significantly in the next three to five years. A more favorable prognosis, however, is seen for the longer term.
Beyond the Online Catalog: Great Potential and Profound Change
Authors: Drabenstott Jon
Published: February 2008

Today's online catalogs typically access machine‐readable records for books, journal titles, and audio‐visual materials, and indicate their circulation status. In the future, the database of these traditional records may be dwarfed by additional databases that will become part of the future electronic library. A few libraries are already experimenting with the addition of other text files to their catalogs. Broad‐band telecommunications networks and supporting technologies are being developed rapidly and will significantly affect the evolution of online catalogs. Growing applications of online catalogs, and network access to them, will require more sophisticated and powerful processing. Six prominent consultants—Joseph Becker, Gayla Kraetsch Hartsough, Raymond DeBuse, Jose‐Marie Griffiths, Rick Richmond, and Wilson Stahl—address these and related issues.
The ARPANET and the DARPA Internet
Authors: Perry Dennis G. , Blumenthal Steven H. , Hinden Robert M.
Published: February 2008

The ARPANET, initiated in 1969 by the Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) of the Department of Defense (DoD), was the first wide area packet switching network. In 1984, the ARPANET, which had grown to over 100 nodes, was separated into two parts: an operational component, the MILNET, to serve the operational needs of the DoD, and a research component that retained the ARPANET name. After the network split, the MILNET expanded, and it should reach over 250 nodes within a year. The DARPA Internet was formed in the 1970s in response to a requirement to interconnect different types of packet‐switching networks that were being implemented. It has grown to be very large; it now consists of over 330 networks, hundreds of gateways, and tens of thousands of hosts. Where the ARPANET used to connect hosts that were single computers into a network, many of these hosts now serve as gateways to local campus networks, regional networks, and other national networks, such as the NSFNET. The impact of this growing system of inter‐connected networks on research, communications, and library access will be profound.
The Library Automation Market: Why Do Vendors Fail? A History of Vendors and Their Characteristics
Authors: Rush James E.
Published: February 2008

Librarians have been concerned about the long‐term success of library automation vendors, and their concerns have been confirmed by the decline and fall of a number of library system vendors, or, at least, by the demise of their products. This paper is an attempt to document the history of events in the library automation marketplace, and to put these events into meaningful business perspective. Among the issues examined here are: a) Who are the players? b) How can vendors be characterized? c) How do these characteristics reflect present and future success in the marketplace? d) How can the marketplace be characterized? e) How do these characteristics influence the success or failure of vendors? f) Is current success of a vendor indicative of a good product, of sound management, of customer satisfaction, and of future success? g) How, in fact, is success measured? h) Are there quantitative measures that can be applied to estimate the likely future success of a vendor?
The OCLC Network: Its Architecture, Application, and Operation
Authors: Learn Larry L. , Carpenter George L.
Published: February 2008

The OCLC Network and its associated information processing facilities constitute the largest and most extensive network of its kind in the world. This article presents a technical overview of the existing OCLC telecommunications network, its use, and operation. It includes discussion of: the scope and magnitude of the network and its applications; its technical attributes, traffic, and facilities characteristics; its user types and demographics; the architecture and implementation of the network and its supporting OCLC computer systems; the terminals and workstations utilized; the protocols employed; other networks supported; gateways and linkages supported; costs incurred; diagnostic, maintenance, and operating goals and procedures; vendor service relationships; availability and performance levels achieved; and related network engineering and implementation.
An Optical Disk‐Based Information Retrieval System
Authors: Bender Avi
Published: February 2008

A microcomputer‐based optical disk system provides the user with a capability for combined full text search and image retrieval. Conceived initially to demonstrate a potential tool to assist lawyers in adjudicatory proceedings, the system appears to have potential for addressing a broad spectrum of record management requirements.
An Electronic Library Communications Format: A Definition and Development Proposal for MARC III
Authors: Brownrigg Edwin , Butler Brett
Published: February 2008

The Memex Research Institute has proposed a research project to describe in machine‐readable form all the information needed to create electronic “books” in a standard communications format. Two kinds of extended computer file formats employing the MARC structure will be defined: Access Formats that take into consideration the many existing index and abstract system formats and their associated databases; and Document Formats that provide for storage, representation, transmission, and display of machine‐readable works in text or image form. The formats that emerge can be employed by libraries, publishers, information utilities, and computer users worldwide to convert printed works to electronic forms or to create original works in electric format, and thus foment the creation of networked electronic library collections.
An experiment in enhancing catalog records at Carnegie Mellon University
Authors: Michalak Thomas J.
Published: February 2008

Historically, libraries have always included special features in their catalogs to meet local needs. This trend has changed over the years as cataloging standards have been developed and accepted. The sheer volume of materials and the rising costs of operations have also curtailed the customizing of local records. However, the desirability of enhancing local records has been readdressed at Carnegie Mellon University. It has undertaken an experimental project to enhance catalog records for new books that meet defined criteria: for example, the books contain “citable” references in the table of contents; chapter titles, while not separately citable, do contain additional useful information; and exhibition catalogs cover 25 or fewer artists. The criteria for and process of enhancing records are discussed, and sample screen displays are illustrated.
The interlibrary loan protocol: AN OSI solution to ill messaging
Authors: Turner Fay
Published: February 2008

The Interlibrary Loan (ILL) protocol is a standard based on the OSI Reference Model that permits ILL messages to be exchanged between heterogeneous systems. By defining a standard for computer communications, the protocol permits the exchange of ILL messages between bibliographic institutions that use different computers, systems, and communication services. Recently approved as a Draft International Standard by the International Standards Organization, the protocol is expected to become an International Standard in 1991. Implementations based on this standard are currently being developed by institutions and software vendors in North America and Europe.
OSI Conformance testing for bibliographic applications
Authors: Arbez Gilbert
Published: February 2008

The objective of OSI conformance testing is to provide a standardized and rigorous means of determining the extent to which a specific implementation conforms to an OSI protocol specification. As part of its ILL Implementation Program, the National Library of Canada has developed a test system and service for the interlibrary loan (ILL) protocol using the ISO standard methodology for conformance testing (ISO 9656). Development of test suites, conformance testing tools, and conformance testing services are presented. The article also discusses related topics such as interoperability testing, arbitration testing, and international harmonization of conformance testing.
How teachers teach, how students learn: “Doing” history and opening windows
Authors: Hume Werking Richard
Published: February 2008

For the history teacher, the next 10 to 15 years will contain important elements of continuity, as well as interesting new opportunities. Much of today's information landscape will not be so much supplanted by new technology as supplemented by it. Some opportunities probably won't be pursued because of faculty conservatism and also because of considerable unevenness in the ability of different institutions to pay for parts of the new technology. Still, many history teachers will be confronting more information resources that are available for their (and their students') work, in a much greater variety of formats. A history faculty member must become even more of a coordinator, helping to arrange his or her students' encounters with the resources they need to do history. This article is adapted from Teaching and Technology: The Impact of Unlimited Information Access on Classroom Technology (Ann Arbor: Pierian Press, 1991); for information on the book, please see page 82.
The FirstSearch Experience at the Ohio State University
Authors: Snure Karen R.
Published: February 2008

In February 1991, OCLC began testing its newly developed product—the FirstSearch™ Catalog. Designed distinctly for the end‐user, FirstSearch is an online computer system providing access to a variety of databases, most notably the OCLC Online Union Catalog. By October 1991, the system was made commercially available to all OCLC member libraries with a pricing structure different from any previously marketed system. As a test site, the Ohio State University has had experience with the system for several months, and has now made the transition from test site to customer.
A browser with a neural network user model
Authors: Jennings Andrew , Higuchi Hideyuki
Published: February 2008

New methods are needed for accessing very large information services. This paper proposes the use of a user model neural network to allow better access to a news service. The network is constructed on the basis of articles read, and articles marked as rejected. It adapts over time to better represent the user's interests and rank the articles supplied by the news service. Using an augmented keyword search we can also search for articles using keywords in conjunction with the user model neural network. Trials of the system in a USENET news environment show promising results for the use of this approach in information retrieval.
Automatic document content analysis: The AIDA project
Authors: Jones Richard L.
Published: February 2008

The AIDA project is a program of research being carried out by Computer Power in Canberra, Australia, in collaboration with the Australian Parliament. Its primary objective is to develop practical methods for carrying out document content analysis with minimal human intervention. Following a very successful independent assessment of the techniques, the first commercial‐strength tool has now been developed. It links the different AIDA analyses (point form summary, keywords, and so on) with the original document to form a “complete” hyperdocument. The different techniques employed by AIDA to achieve its results are described.
OPAC workstation evaluation: The third time around
Authors: Martin Ron G.
Published: February 2008

It has been three years since an OPAC workstation at Indiana State University Libraries (ISU) was designed and constructed. During the planning stages, two surveys helped determine user preferences at the time. More recently, a third survey was conducted. The purpose of this survey was two‐fold: to assess how well the workstation was actually meeting users' present needs, and to provide guidance in the construction of future OPAC workstations. In particular, the survey sought ideas both on what new equipment should be purchased for a future workstation and how to better arrange the equipment that is already part of the present workstation.
The limits and limitations of transaction log analysis
Authors: Kurth Martin
Published: February 2008

Introduction Since the earliest transaction monitoring studies, researchers have encountered the boundaries that define transaction log analysis as a methodology for studying the use of online information retrieval systems. Because, among other reasons, transaction log databases contain relatively few fields and lack sufficient retrieval tools, students of transaction log data have begun to ask as many questions about what transaction logs cannot reveal as they have asked about what transaction logs can reveal. Researchers have conducted transaction monitoring studies to understand the objective phenomena embodied in this statement: “Library patrons enter searches into online information retrieval systems.” Transaction log data effectively describe what searches patrons enter and when they enter them, but they don't reflect, except through inference, who enters the searches, why they enter them, and how satisfied they are with their results.
Collection development for the electronic library: A conceptual and organizational model
Authors: Demas Samuel
Published: February 2008

The elements of a conceptual and organizational model for conducting systematic selection of electronic publications are presented. Refined at Mann Library over the past decade, the model is designed to develop staff expertise in selection of information resources across formats, and to ensure that the full impact of selections on every part of the library organization is anticipated at the time of selection. Described are the concept of information genres, the role of genre specialists, and a selection review board, the Electronic Resources Council, which is made up of representatives from throughout the library organization. The model is presented as a method of mainstreaming, or operationally and conceptually integrating, electronic publications into the library's resources and services.
On the construction of selection systems
Authors: Buckland Michael , Plaunt Christian
Published: February 2008

This article examines the structure and components of information storage and retrieval systems and information filtering systems. Analysis of the tasks performed in such selection systems leads to the identification of 13 components. Eight are necessarily present in all such systems, mechanized or not; the others may, but need not be, present. The authors argue that all selection systems can be represented in terms of combinations of these components. The components are of only two types: representations of data objects and functions that operate on them. Further, the functional components, or rules, reduce to two basic types: 1) transformation, making or modifying the members of a set of representations, and 2) sorting or partitioning. The representational transformations may be in the form of copies, excerpts, descriptions, abstractions, or mere identifying references. By partitioning, we mean dividing a set of objects by using matching, sorting, ranking, selecting, and other logically equivalent operations. The typical multiplicity of knowledge sources and of system vocabularies is noted. Some of the implications for the study, use, and design of information storage and retrieval systems are discussed.
SIRSI: History and “vizion” of an integrated information systems vendor
Authors: Young Jacky , Collins Debbie , Keel Kerry
Published: February 2008

Unicorn and STILAS are multiuser client/server systems developed in and for the Unix environment to automate all aspects of information management, from cataloging and authority control to intelligent access of non‐SIRSI databases. In keeping with the client/server concept, SIRSI has introduced a graphical user interface (GUI) to Unicorn and STILAS. The SIRSI system provides a path to information both inside and outside the library. SIRSI provides a standard interface, an “Intelligent Interface” client to diverse database systems and other vendors' library automation systems. SIRSI's Reference Database Managers provide an intelligent connection to locally mounted reference databases. SIRSI's VIZION, a stand‐alone desktop client, provides an automatic graphical user interface to hundreds of online sources of information and services available through the Internet and via modem. Furthermore, SIRSI has recently introduced WebCat, which facilitates mounting and access to the complete catalogs and other services of libraries over the Internet's World Wide Web.
The TULIP project
Authors: Gusack Nancy , Lynch Clifford A.
Published: February 2008

This issue of Library Hi Tech contains a series of articles about the TULIP materials science journal access project, an unprecedented cooperative undertaking involving Elsevier Science Publishing and a number of major universities in the United States.
TULIP at Virginia Tech
Authors: Dougherty William C. , Fox Edward A.
Published: February 2008

In 1992, Virginia Tech began its participation in the TULIP (The University Licensing Program) project. OCLC agreed to collaborate, providing a turnkey software solution as well as assistance with implementation and processing. An RS/6000 and optical disc jukebox were ordered during the spring to provide hardware support. Staff from the Computing Center and Library were identified to help with project administration and implementation.
Libraries and the empowerment of persons with disabilities
Authors: McNulty Tom
Published: February 2008

This special theme issue of Library Hi Tech includes eight articles on technology and its impact on persons with disabilities. These articles represent a cross‐section of current research and practice in the field of adaptive technology and librarianship. Susan Beck begins by identifying the architectural barriers facing the disabled library user. Next, Marilyn Graubart tackles a less obvious but equally insidious access challenge: the attitudinal barriers facing the patron or staff member with a disability. Staff sensitivity issues are addressed and concrete solutions to staff training are presented. Other articles deal with various aspects of adaptive technologies. Case studies point out potential pitfalls facing librarians who must decide what to buy and how to best use it. Many in the disabled community have feared that the graphical user interface would reverse progress made with the earlier, primarily text‐based (DOS) systems. Alistair D.N. Edwards' history of the GUI provides the necessary background information for the articles that deal with pragmatic solutions to the graphics problems, including the trend toward graphics‐based OPACs and World Wide Web sites. What role will Braille, large print, and audio books and magazines play in the future of libraries and disabilities? Most libraries still collect books, and the nation's two largest suppliers of alternative format texts, the National Library Service and Recording for the Blind and Dyslexic (RFB&D), are sure to maintain a central role. This special issue winds up with Steve Noble's overview of the new RFB&D Internet‐based online catalog, which enables patrons to gain direct access to this agency's many recorded and electronic text offerings.
The adaptable approach: A practical guide to planning accessible libraries
Authors: Cantor Alan
Published: February 2008

On the road to making libraries more accessible to people with disabilities, librarians often get stuck in technological mud. The choices are overwhelming, and many librarians feel they lack the technical expertise to select appropriate equipment. They have many questions about assistive technologies (AT): Should we buy a monochrome or color CCTV (close circuit television)? Which scanner works best? Can scanning software be used independently by someone who relies on synthesized speech output? How much RAM (Random Access Memory) and how large a hard drive are needed to run assistive technologies? How big a monitor is needed for screen enlargement software? Is the screen enlargement program compatible with the voice output program? Do we need a Braille printer? a refreshable Braille display? a personal transmitter/receiver system? If yes, FM or infrared? And what about a voice recognition system?
Levelling the road ahead: Guidelines for the creation of www pages accessible to blind and visually handicapped users
Authors: Dixon Judith M.
Published: February 2008

Traditionally, it has been the role of the librarian to locate, select, organize, and disseminate mainly print information resources. With the advent of online services, this role is now being extended to include providing information about electronic resources.
Enhancing a new design for subject access to online catalogs
Authors: Drabenstott Karen M.
Published: February 2008

Search trees are a set of paths with branches or choices that enable a system to carry out the most sensible search approach at each stage of a search. A new design for subject access to online catalogs enlists search trees to identify the characteristics of end‐user queries for subjects, control system responses, and determine appropriate subject‐searching approaches in response to the subject queries users entered. The purpose of this article is to identify characteristics of the most difficult user queries and recommend enhancements to the new subject‐searching design to enable it to produce useful retrievals in response to the wide variety of queries users pose to online catalogs. Online catalogs governed by search trees are more effective than the users themselves in selecting subject‐searching approaches that would produce useful information for the subjects users seek. The enhanced search trees presented and tested in this article enlist subject‐searching approaches that are not typical of the functionality of operational online catalogs. Design and development is required to upgrade existing online catalogs with search trees and new subject‐searching functionality to be successful in responding with useful retrievals to the most difficult user queries.
Illinois: Library automation and connectivity initiatives
Authors: Lamont Bridget L. , Bloomberg Kathleen L.
Published: February 2008

As Illinois completes 30 years of library systems and 100 years of the Illinois Library Association, it is appropriate to review “recent” history as a harbinger of what may lie ahead for the Illinois Library and Information Network (ILLINET). The network of libraries in Illinois, formally named in 1975, recognizes the cooperative efforts of library staff members in over 2,700 libraries and the leadership of the Illinois State Library in bringing resources to bear on the needs of all citizens of the state. Libraries of all types (academic, public, school, and special) become members of ILLINET when they join their regional library systems.
German library networks in the web age
Authors: Baker Thomas
Published: February 2008

The Internet arrived on the German library scene in the fall of 1994. Until then, libraries had connected to hosts or offered their catalogs, if at all, over networks based on the X.25 protocol. Because of Telekom's monopoly, these services were several times more expensive than comparable services in the United States—prohibitively so for small libraries and private citizens, who rarely ventured beyond CompuServe or videotext. The Internet arose alongside these networks in the late 1980s, first at university computer science departments and in the form of pioneering companies such as EUNet. But it did not attract much attention until 1993, when Mosaic became available, allowing text and graphics to be displayed side‐by‐side and providing an easy way to surf the Web with mouse clicks. Weekly magazines began to carry dramatic stories about the coming Datenautobahn.
Learning Team Skills—An Experience Based Model
Authors: Eskin Frada
Published: February 2008

The increasing complexity of knowledge and skills relating to health and disease, together with the development of a variety of professions and disciplines contributing to health care, has encouraged the development of multidisciplinary teams in the health care field. This natural tendency towards a teamwork approach was reinforced in 1974 by the reorganisation of the management structure of the National Health Service, when formal recognition was given to the need for a multidisciplinary consensus team approach to health service management.
Team Skills Management
Authors: Mottram Roger
Published: February 2008

“Team skills management” grew out of research into management selection methods. Applied research in industry, ranging from creativity in food processing to trainability in systems analysis, led us to some obvious truths: individuals are seldom good at everything; their effectiveness is often dependent on the people they are working with; and they usually have a lot more to contribute than their particular profession or expertise may suggest.
Influencing Work Performance:The Development of Diagnostic Skills
Authors: Taylor D.S. , Wright P.L.
Published: February 2008

Influencing the work behaviour of subordinates is an essential part of a manager's job. It requires skill, and can be seen as a basic leadership activity. However, appropriate influence depends on more than interacting skilfully with subordinates. As Schein states, to deal with the complexities of human behaviour, “the successful manager must be a good diagnostician and must value a spirit of enquiry”. That is, a manager in attempting to remedy some performance problem needs to be able to identify the probable causes of the problem and the relevant actions required for its solution. In order to achieve successful solutions, valid causes of the problem behaviour need to be found, followed by appropriate remedial actions. This requires an understanding of the range of factors which can influence work behaviour.
Organisational Improvement in Mobil Oil
Authors: Barratt A.M.
Published: February 2008

You are all aware of the difficulties in obtaining management commitment of the right type for implementing management development and training plans in any organisation. The development of managers and supervisors to improve the effectiveness of their on‐the‐job performance continually provides a challenge and opportunity. In recent years, Mobil has developed and implemented a philosophy and system that attempts to integrate the needs of the organisation with the needs of individual supervisors and managers.
Developing Middle Managers in Shrinking Organisations
Authors: Hunt John W.
Published: February 2008

The central concern of this paper is managers in the middle who are hierarchically suppressed by new systems from above and squeezed by new technologies from below. They represent one of the most disillusioned groups in work organisations. Mid‐career crises, redundancies and exhortations to perform better make their plight worse. One answer has been management development. My thesis here is that very little development actually occurs as strategies and structures work against it and the realities of learning are ignored. If we hope to address this middle management problem we should return to the basics of the learning process.
Management Development as the Key to Organisation Renewal
Authors: Lippitt Gordon
Published: February 2008

The development of greater numbers of more competent managers, and their successful management of human resources, has been made urgently necessary for business, industry and government by technological, economic, social and world‐wide change.
Are Management Education Programmes Unmanageable?
Authors: Hall Chris
Published: February 2008

Management is what managers do, and managers do a multitude of different things, at a number of different levels and in a variety of different ways. It is not surprising, therefore, that there is no general consensus as to a definition of management, and that there exists no precise concept of what constitutes a good manager. A pessimist might see this as a problem; management education programmes presumably seek to produce “good managers” by teaching “management”, and if one does not know what either is, it is difficult even to start to devise an educational plan, let alone to assess whether that plan is effective or not. The managers of management education programmes are not, it seems, given to pessimism. In general terms, at least, it is possible to identify the areas in which a manager requires competence. In turn it is possible to specify the skills that are necessary, and the appropriate levels of competence, in those areas.
Learning Style and Learning Skills
Authors: Mumford A.C.
Published: February 2008

I want to start with some statements about the context for management development which I expect to be relatively uncontentious, before I move on to the proposition which will contain the core of what I want to say. Such statements would not have been made years ago, but it seems to me that the context of management development is now recognised, not only by the adventurers of management development but by those who now have adopted early adventures as conventional wisdom, as being that:
Politics of Interpersonal Influence:
Authors: Kakabadse Andrew
Published: February 2008

In a lecture given in 1981 by Professor Lyman Porter examining the successful and unsuccessful promotion bids by management executives, he stated that:
Management Development: The Challenge of Mixed Ability Groups
Authors: Candlin D.B. , Franklin S.D. , Heath J.L. , Knibbs J.R.
Published: February 2008

A common experience of tutors of post graduate management courses is the wide range of backgrounds, attributes, qualifications, experience and competence of course members. In this article the authors explore the nature of this mixed ability, seek to identify the challenges it presents in course design and thereafter explore possible approaches that might be adopted to minimise the harmful effects and optimise the learning to be gained from the mixed ability, post graduate programme. For the purpose of this paper, mixed ability is not used in the narrow sense of cleverness or mental faculty, but rather to encompass the individual's capacity to learn from and contribute to the learning programme.
Management Subcultures: Research and Change
Authors: Knudsen Kjell R.
Published: February 2008

The purpose of this paper is to suggest the existence and nature of management culture. In particular, attention needs to be given to management subcultures. The norms, beliefs and values of these subcultures have consequences for management behaviour, individuals, for the organisation as a whole, and for the ways in which managers become socialised. A simulation approach to researching management subcultures and management behaviour is proposed. The use of the simulation approach for changing management behaviour and subcultures is discussed.
Conflict Resolution Skills and Techniques in Management Development — Part II
Authors: Dick Bob
Published: February 2008

This is the second part of a practical paper showing how conflict resolution skills can be used by managers. Part I of this article appeared in Vol. 2 No. 3 which outlined the FIDO model. This emphasised the importance of working through the four key issues of Feelings, Information, Decisions and Outcomes. The ideas are developed further in this article.
Whither Business Schools? Some International Comparisons in Management Education
Authors: Hall Ken
Published: February 2008

Early post‐war business schools in the major English‐speaking countries were, by present standards, generally “inelegant”, their function being very much directed towards training. They were staffed by people who, whilst often strong on practice, were frequently not particularly well qualified academically. Since then there has been a significant shift towards conceptualisation and theorisation, motivated in no small measure by a desire for “academic elegance”. Staff profiles have consequently also changed. As with most historic swings, may not this one have been excessive? Now may therefore be the right time to question whether this move has not gone too far and if a more balanced approach is not required.
How Managers Make Promotion Decisions
Authors: London Manuel , Stumpf Stephen A.
Published: February 2008

This paper examines how management promotion decisions are made in a large organisation, drawing upon interview and survey data and the results of a decision‐making simulation completed by managers at three organisational levels. The findings describe the relationship between elements of decision process, such as the number of candidates considered to fill a vacancy, and the types of information available and the decision outcome. Implications of the results are discussed in terms of how individual needs and desires formulated during career planning may be taken into account when making promotion decisions. The paper concludes with recommendations for making promotion decisions.
Choosing Experiential Based Learning Designs for Management Development
Authors: Roskin Rick
Published: February 2008

Experientially based learning designs are examined along with their various strengths, weaknesses and applications. The four key underlying considerations to choosing an experientially based learning design are: the learning objective, the learner, the facilitator and the environment.