Rapid developments in computing, telecommunications and microtechnology are expanding the ways in which information can be obtained. The online systems are now firmly established and the Post Office Prestel service is com mencing operations. There are several packages available for large-scale and medium-scale in-house computing systems and the advent of microcomputers means that complete informa tion systems for well under £ 10 000 will soon be available. Personal information systems can already be found for a few thousand pounds. The opportunities for the smaller informa tion unit are surveyed and the costs and difficulties of the possible options are reviewed.
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