A comparative study of three systems of information retrieval: A summary

Three approaches to the problems of information retrieval were examined to determine factors affecting conditions of use. Input costs and cost per usage were much higher for the mechanized approaches than for conventional library techniques. The mechanized system was, for certain types of questions, more efficient than the library reference approach in producing answers. The difference was not great enough to offset the higher basic costs; and a punched card‐handbook system of the type examined is not, therefore, recommended. Conditions under which such a system might be feasible, and what such a system should provide if used, are given. The major recommendation, however, points out the need to find ways in which library catalogs can be strengthened to provide a more efficient level of indexing and more ready access to concealed data.