Using a microcomputer to access bibliographic databases: experience with Userlink software in the ICI Organics Division Information and Library Services Unit

Describes development projects for utilising relatively cheap but powerful microcomputers to facilitate the searching of remote, dial‐up, databases. Viewdata and databases with graphics output, as well as ones with text output, were dealt with in the projects. Current ‘state of the art’ uses software developed by Userlink Systems Ltd to provide access via an IBM PC to both in‐house mainframe systems and external information sources. In addition, other but related facilites were built into one of the systems developed; these included word processing, housekeeping procedures and limited downloading capability. With the ability to store and retrieve easily the often lengthy and complicated procedures necessary for gaining access to online hosts, and transmit rapidly a search, the user is saved much time, effort and cost. The projects were undertaken jointly between an industrial information unit, providing the system definitions and evaluating the development, and a team of computer software specialists.