An automated SDI system for Makerere Institute of Social Research

Abstract

The purpose of this project is to develop an automated Selective Dissemination,ion of Information (SDl) system for Makerere Institute of Social Research (MISR) Library to provide current information to users according to their area of interest on a particular subject. The objectives were to; identify the existing SDl practices at the MISR library, identify requirements for developing an automated SDl system at the MISR library, develop an automated SDl system at the MISR library and test and validate the automated SDl system. o The case study research design was used while adopting a qualitative research approach. Data was collected using face-to-face interview and document review methods. Purposive sampling method was used to select 7 participants who took part in the study. Librarians disseminate information through the use of telephones, displaying information on notice boards, using Email, list of latest periodicals received, news clipping service. The study findings established the requirements for developing an automated selective dissemination of information system at MISR Library. The study also established the usefulness of computer' hardware to a greater extent depends on the available software and the ability of management to evaluate and control utilization of software in order to run the application software in this study. The automated SDl system was designed using "What You See is What You Get" (WYSIWYG) web builder software that allowed researchers create a web based friendly system using a simple drag and drop features. The system was tested and validated to perform the intended purposes at MISR Library, Two librarians tested the system by logging in which was successful and the,se were able to perform the functions of registering users and sending them messages. The study concluded that implementation of an automated SDl system would help librarians alert the library users on the new information resources acquired in the library. The study recommended that MISR Ijbrary should implement the SDI System in order to promote the u rs access to library services.