Electronic error reporting via Internet in the VAX environment

Abstract

Describes an electronic OCLC error reporting (OER) program developed at the Albert B. Alkek Library, Southwest Texas State University, in response to the OCLC announcement that OCLC users could begin submitting bibliographic record change requests and duplicate record reports via Internet e‐mail. OER is a menu‐driven program written in VAX VMS which facilitates sending OCLC error reports by providing blank error‐report forms for various error‐reporting activities. This is accomplished by adding constant and system‐supplied information to the forms and then automatically sending the forms, while giving ample opportunities to review the accuracy of the outgoing report. Doing so provides more uniformity and accuracy in the reporting process and saves money and staff time. Suggests that, although the program is written for the SWT library, it may easily be modified and used by other compatible institutions.