While the IAL specialises in managing large research projects, over the years, the company has undertaken a number of consultancies. There are three related areas in which we can offer advice.

Consultancy on Internet Use and Resources

Information Automation Limited has gained considerable expertise in the professional use of the Internet as a communication medium: for e-mail, publications such as e-journals or e-books, secondary resources, database access, and corporate publishing.

Information Automation Limited is able to advise on the location and use of Internet and World Wide Web resources, and on the development and construction of a Web presence.

Information Automation Limited can:

• organise training courses on all aspects of Internet use
• explain the importance of quality and the evaluation of new resources on the Internet in the light of the current lack of quality control and the ease with which any person or organisation can publish material on the Internet
• help with ‘information overload’
• advise on the most appropriate resources and on the location and evaluation of new resources
• advise and help in the production of a high-quality Web site, designed to meet a client’s needs
• provide backup and support during the initial period of use
• prepare user aids and documentation

Consultancy for in-house information systems

Information Automation Limited can assess your company information needs from outside - an information audit. Many organisations hold a wealth of information resources which are neither recognised nor utilised efficiently within the company. Such untapped data affects the efficiency of the company and represents a valuable asset.

Information Automation Limited is familiar with the complete range of text and information retrieval and management packages which are available to handle in-house information. We have the appropriate experience to:

• evaluate your information in order to suggest the best means to utilise it
• give advice on suitable retrieval software
• evaluate your requirements for additional information
• design databases suited to your information
• provide retrospective data input
• advise on future data use within your corporate structure.

Consultancy for Electronic Information Services

Information Automation Limited is able to advise on the use of online, CD-ROM and Internet information resources. There are over 15,000 remote databases available to users in industry, business and education and almost as many databases on optical discs, as well as countless Internet resources. Matching your needs to what is available is often confusing, difficult and time consuming - the informed opinion of an outside expert who can evaluate your options and suggest the appropriate route forward can be invaluable.

In order to smooth the path, Information Automation Limited can:

• evaluate your information needs
• conduct demonstration online searches
• advise on the most appropriate resources and the means by which they may be accessed
• advise on contracts
• advise on training
• provide customised training which will suit your personnel and information needs
• provide backup and support during the initial period of use
• prepare user aids and documentation.