Illinois economics and micrographics.

Area of Science:

• Information Science
• Archival Science
• Management Information Systems

Background:

• Increasing demand for computer data output for management.
• Need for cost-effective data storage and retrieval solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the operational and financial aspects of the first computer-output microfiche installation in Illinois.
• To evaluate the economic benefits of micrographics in managing large data volumes.

Main Methods:

• Comparison of fiscal 1981 operational costs and output with historical data.
• Analysis of monthly report forms for source document microfilming, photographic processing, and laboratory services.
• Development of cost per microfiche copy and per original silver negative.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of cost savings through micrographics implementation.
• Quantification of operational costs associated with microfiche production.
• Exploration of the distinction between "savings" and "cost avoidance" in this context.

Conclusions:

• Micrographics offers significant economic advantages for managing increasing computer data output.
• Detailed operational cost analysis is crucial for understanding the true financial impact of microfiche systems.
• The study provides a framework for evaluating the financial benefits of archival data management technologies.