All the major search systems and CD-ROM vendors are making Web access a priority. While Windows and DOS clients may still be available, with even a telnet version or two, the major development efforts are being focussed on the Web interface. Web access to these bibliographic database systems comes in many flavors. The CD-ROM can be loaded locally. The software needs to be installed and maintained.
Local loading can allow more customization and easy changing of installation and setup options.
The other approach of the database vendors is to dispense with disseminating periodic copies of the databases and instead make it directly available via the Web. This remote hosting of databases has a number of advantages. The local institution does not need to have much technical expertise for support as the vendor maintains the software on the remote system. And the search software can be updated as soon as bug fixes or enhancements are implemented. Unfortunately, the remote hosting creates other difficulties.