Introducing the concept of an electronic information service

Abstract

In order to realize fully the potential benefits of electronic information services (EISs), information managers need to understand the overall context of developing a total EIS where maximum use is made of electronically held information. While number of library and information science (LIS) managers have become experts in building and stocking virtual libraries, there are many who are not directly involved in this work but can see considerable potential value if it could be adapted to their own situation. Recent research suggests that there is still very little real guidance specifically aimed at the LIS practitioner in business and other workplace environments about how to introduce and manage a complete EIS. Proposes that an initial series of questions should be asked about services with potential for delivery as part of an EIS. Such questions will enable the information managers to: enhance the services given to users; cut down on repetitive work; and maximize the stock available by holding information and documents in electronic forms. Depending on the main subject area in which the LIS is operating, typical elements of the choices involved include: computer software; stand alone and network databases; CD-ROMs; electronic journals; multimedia products; image collections; encyclopaedias; reference materials; daily news; access to financial information sources; and scientific, technical and medical information.

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References

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