Phone lines connect users' personal computers to computers in their local areas called servers. Because the Internet can be accessed around the clock from virtually anywhere in the state, it could offer a significant improvement over office-based information and referral systems available only during traditional working hours. Emerging Internet tools can search very large databases quickly and thoroughly. Finally, Internet databases require no more maintenance than existing ones, and because they are more widely and easily accessible, they could be used to provide information and referral services with fewer staff members, at a lower cost. Many state and local governments, including Texas, have used the Internet to provide public information in a number of areas including economic and demographic data for prospective businesses, and recreational and travel information for tourists.
Private businesses use the Internet to communicate with customers and business partners.
Federal Express, for instance, allows its customers to place pickup orders, track package deliveries, and even credit deliveries to their payment accounts via the Internet, thereby significantly reducing the company's costs. The agency is reviewing the work processes of various state and local information and referral operations, identifying some possible standards and assessing system requirements. Providing this information via the Internet would not require the state to abandon the locally based nature of its information and referral systems. Local entities continue to know their areas' resources and needs best, and are best positioned to ensure that information is kept up to date. Nevertheless, a single entity could facilitate linkages between state agencies and local information and referral centers, to minimize duplicated efforts and databases.