Versatility of the PRISM SaveScreen Facility and Function Keys in Training and Analysis

Abstract

The PRISM SaveScreen facility and function keys provide alternatives in producing data for budget planning and PRISM search cost estimation, and also facilitating PRISM search training. By combining the SaveScreen function key with frequently used PRISM function keys such as 〈SEND〉, 〈DISPLAY RECORD SEND〉, 〈FOR〉, and 〈BAC〉, the activities of a PRISM user can be recorded and stored in a predefined data file for later analyses. For example, from the results of the analyses, the usage levels of OCLC workstations and the approximate monthly PRISM search cost of each workstation were obtained. In addition, based on the recorded search activities, a retraining in PRISM search can be planned. Certainly, by familiarizing oneself with PRISM search commands and search structures, a user can perform cost‐effective and efficient searches. Toward that end, also presents methods of performing cost‐effective PRISM searches.