Abstract
For years, now, we have heard predictions about the paperless office and the paperless lab, and to a large degree, much of what has been envisioned has become part of today's routine reality. It's interesting, though, that despite the enormous convenience and capabilities of electronic media, there remains a strong demand for good old-fashioned printed pages. Research by Blackwell Publishing reveals that members of associations and professional societies like JALA are especially eager to receive printed copies of the journals to which they subscribe.
In the meantime, however, there are many related online resources that ALA members should not overlook. JALA World News Online is located within the ALA Web site (http://www.labautomation.org), and exists to provide ALA members with ways to keep pace with industry news, reference a growing collection of technical and application notes, and access educational resources available in the online libraries of LabAutomation exhibitors.
JALA World News Online comprises five core components, and access is restricted to ALA regular members only (i.e., to ALA members who have paid dues).
Product News—shares information about laboratory automation product launches and enhancements, including hardware, software, accessories, consumables, and manufacturer services.
Company News—keeps readers informed of changes and achievements by leading manufacturers in the lab automation market, including distribution deals, corporate buy-outs, client news and equipment placements, industry awards, executive promotions, and more.
Meetings and Events Calendar—offers a list of global nonprofit meetings and events that may be of interest to lab automation professionals. Each listing includes a link to the event's Web site.
LabAutomation Exhibitor Technical Library Links—provides fast and direct access to the information-rich technical libraries available at many of LabAutomation's exhibitor Web sites.
Application Notes and Technical Notes—is a growing forum that currently houses summaries of more than 200 free application and technical notes available from more than 30 different companies. Organized by company name, each listing includes a link to the source's Web site.
Most ALA members report that this information is helpful and of interest to them. Because this news and information is posted to JALA World News Online before it appears in the printed issues of JALA, many ALA members have made a habit of browsing through JALA World News Online on a weekly basis. I encourage those who have not to bookmark the site, and begin to surf in on a regular basis.
Sincerely,
