Managing the Electronic Office - Page 2
   
CRITERIA
HARD COPY
ELECTRONIC
Accuracy
Are the data reliable? Are the data published by a reliable source and is the information itself reliable?
Timeliness
Are the data updated annually? Less frequently? 
 
Are the data updated annually, quarterly, every 20 mins.? 
Ease of Use
Is the information presented clearly? See also "Index" below. Is the information presented clearly? Is the user interface intuitive? Does the service/CD search and sort quickly?
Availability
Is the volume available for ASAP use? Can it be obtained for free in another office/library? Are data needed regularly ASAP? Can the data be found for free or more economically elsewhere?
Index
Are there adequate indexes for cross-referencing and for creating lists? Is there a search engine or online index for cross referencing and for creating new lists?
Range
How far back in years does this volume/collection go? How far back do you need on hand? Do you need historical data? How far back in years does this service/CD go?
Completeness
Does the volume contain enough data to answer basic subject- related research questions? Does the service/CD contain enough data to answer basic subject-related research questions?
Bibliography
Does the volume have a bibliography leading to additional useful resources? Does the service/CD contain multiple, linked resources? Does the Web site have useful hot links?
Space/Storage
Is there adequate storage and worktable space available? Is there adequate computer disk space for product use? 
Number of Users
Is the volume for one user? Multiple/library use? Is it routed? Is the service/CD for single user or network use? Do the data need to be circulated? 
Access
N/A
How reliable is your Internet access? Do you have a fast telecom link?
Uniqueness
Can you find this info anywhere else? Can you find this info anywhere else?
AND
(After the above criteria have been compared)
 
Price
Free but old information? 
Under $100 annually? 
Over $100 annually?
Free on the Internet? 
Under $1,000 annually? 
Over $1,000 annually?
 
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