Selective dissemination of information using a low‐cost relational database at GEC's Engineering Research Centre

Abstract

A technique for providing a selective dissemination of information service and a printed current awareness bulletin using modestly priced equipment and software was investigated. It is shown that by using a cheap IBM AT clone, a standard relational database package (Paradox) and a word processor package (WordStar), this can be achieved. A useful in‐house database is created at the same time which can be used for retrospective searching of library stock. Techniques of multirelational searching are described, and a method of multi‐database data entry is outlined. Selection criteria for hardware and software are discussed as are other applications of the equipment.

Citation

Green, K.E. (1988), "Selective dissemination of information using a low‐cost relational database at GEC's Engineering Research Centre", Program: electronic library and information systems, Vol. 22 No. 2, pp. 163-176. https://doi.org/10.1108/eb046995