Evaluation and compression of scientific and technical information at the nuclear safety information center

Abstract

An brief resume of the operation of the Nuclear Safety Information Center with emphas i s on those functions whi ch const i tute evaluation or compression of technical information was presented. The computer i zation of the center ' s information store and the several information retrieval programs includes some evaluation. However, i n addit i on to expediting searches of categorized information, the use of computers is des i rable in freeing technical personnel for more productive uses as in the preparation of technical review art i cles and state-of-the-art reports. A "compression" ratio greater than 100 is a reasonable expectation for such documents and offers the most promi sing hope to the individual desirous of maintaining his currency in a particular technology. A recent development involving the storage of data files on computer tape and the development of programs to evaluate the data in response to preconceived cri teria was also described. NOTICE This document contains informa t ion of a pre liminary nature and was prepared primori ly lor internal u se at the Oa k R idge Not io nal Laboratory. It is subject to revision or c orrection and therefore does not represent a final report.