The role of information technology in providing animal health information - a publisher's point of view

Abstract

CAB International has been providing animal health information in printed form for over 60 years, and in various machine-readable forms for nearly 20 years. However, the tremendous advances in information technology over the past 5 years, and the expected continuation of this trend offer vast opportunities for information suppliers and users alike. This paper discusses relevant advances in technology and how they can best be utilized to provide new and better access to the literature relating to animal health. Some of the technologies covered include digital scanning and optical character recognition, magnetic and optical storage capacities, networking, CD-ROM, expert systems, and multi-media products. Examples are drawn from CAB International's existing range of products, and advances are viewed in relation to CABI's strategic plan for future development.