Micro CDS/ISIS Brief

 Micro CDS/ISIS is an advanced software designed by UNESCO in 1985 to cater to the information storage and retrieval needs of institutions, particularly in developing countries. Its aim is to streamline information processing using cost-effective modern technologies. This software evolved from the mainframe version of CDS/ISIS from the late '60s.

Key Features:

- Handles variable length records, fields, and sub-fields, optimizing disk space and accommodating larger bibliographic data.

- Comprises a database definition component to specify data for specific applications.

- Offers a data entry component with user-configurable worksheets.

- Provides a robust information retrieval component with a potent search language, including field-level, proximity, and Boolean search techniques, alongside free-text searching.

- Features a versatile report generator to create catalogues, indexes, etc., in desired formats.

- Supports data interchange using ISO 2709 standard format.

- Integrates an application programming language (CDS/ISIS Pascal) for customization.

- Facilitates building pseudo-relational databases.

- Interfaces with IDAMS software for statistical analysis.

- Offers multi-lingual support in English, French, and Spanish versions.

Historical Development: - Version 1.0 (1985) was created for IBM PC/X with 256K RAM and hard disk capacity, divided into six programs. Limited to 32,000 records. - Version 2.0 Window Version(1989) integrated all programs into one, extended database capacity to 16,000,000 records, and introduced the CDS/ISIS Pascal programming language interface. CD-ROM version released. - Version 3.0 (1993) added Local Area Network (LAN) support, along with a UNIX version. - 1997 brought Version 1.0 of CDS/ISIS for Windows.     Currently, UNESCO maintains three compatible versions tailored for different hardware/software platforms: 1. MS-DOS Version 3.0 with local area network support. 2. UNIX Version for multi-user remote access, especially via the Internet.

3. Windows Version.

Hardware and software requirements for the various versions of CDS/ISIS are as follows:

1. MS-DOS Version:

- IBM PC or compatible microcomputer.

- Minimum of 640K RAM.

- 2 MB hard disk capacity.

- 3 1/2 inch high-density floppy disk drive.

2. UNIX Version:

- Intel 386/486 processor. - 3 1/2 inch high-density diskette drive. - Operating System V, release 3 or higher (or SCO). - VT 100 or compatible terminals. - Peripherals such as a printer.

3. Windows Version:

- Intel Pentium processor. - At least 16 MB RAM. - Minimum of 10 MB hard disk space. - 3 1/2 inch high-density floppy disk drive. - Operating System: Windows 3X or Windows 95.     To streamline maintenance and promote consistency, UNESCO took the strategic decision to rewrite the CDS/ISIS software in C++. This move standardized the programming language across all versions, reducing maintenance costs. This rewrite also facilitated the development of a multiplatform software system, enhancing portability across various hardware and operating systems. In effect, this shift increased portability from standalone PCs to more robust mini-computers. Consequently, it enabled the adoption of a Client-Server architecture using established market interfaces. Micro CDS/ISIS finds practical application in libraries, particularly in alleviating repetitive tasks. Common operations like ordering, receiving, processing, and circulating books involve the use of recurring information like author, title, and publication date across various tasks such as acquisition forms, catalog cards, and circulation lists. This redundancy leads to unnecessary duplication of effort. To address this, microcomputer-based database management tools like CDS/ISIS come into play, streamlining library tasks.     By employing programs like CDS/ISIS, the redundancy in library operations can be eliminated. This involves entering various pieces of information, such as author details, into the database management system. Subsequently, this information can be manipulated to generate different types of outputs. In the context of developing a micro CDS/ISIS application, the following tasks are essential: 1. Application Design: Creating a blueprint for how the CDS/ISIS system will be utilized within the library's context. 2. Database Definition: Defining the structure of the database, which includes specifying what types of information will be stored and how they relate to each other. 3. Data Entry and Indexing: Inputting data into the system and ensuring it's appropriately categorized and indexed for efficient retrieval. 4. Searching: Utilizing the search capabilities of CDS/ISIS to retrieve specific information from the database as needed.

    Overall, micro CDS/ISIS proves invaluable in minimizing redundant efforts in libraries by centralizing and managing information, making tasks more efficient and streamlined. 

i) Application Design

    Micro CDS/ISIS is a text-oriented software package particularly suitable for storing and managing textual data. It's a favorable choice when the objective is to store textual information, retrieve it based on specific criteria, and present or print it in a customized format. One of its common applications is in creating machine-readable library catalogs. This involves storing details about books or documents as records within a master file database. This same approach can be extended to store information about various entities like plants, individuals, institutions, and more.

    When designing a database using Micro CDS/ISIS, certain crucial considerations must be addressed. First, the data elements to be included and their corresponding attributes need to be defined. For instance, in a bibliographical database, elements like author names, titles, publication details, and subject descriptors are specified. Moreover, it's essential to determine which fields are applicable to a particular database. This involves: - Assigning a numerical identifier (tag) to each field. - Providing a descriptive name for easy recognition. - Defining the maximum length (field length) for each field. - Indicating whether a field can be repeated.     CDS/ISIS necessitates the division of records into fields. It also requires specifying the maximum length of a field, with flexibility for adjustments later. The CDS/ISIS package is structured to manage fields and records of varying lengths, accommodating a maximum record length of 4096 characters.

    Deciding on the structure of fields and sub-fields in a database is a critical responsibility. It involves considering not only accurate data entry and proper display/printing capabilities but also the suitability of the record and field structure for different types of searches. This thoughtful design ensures efficient data management and retrieval processes.

ii) Database Definition

Creating a structured database involves four essential steps, outlined as follows:

 

1. Creating a Field Definition Table (FDT):

   - Determine potential data content by crafting a Field Definition Table (FDT) using Micro CDS/ISIS's Line Editor.

   - For each field, specify a tag number, name, maximum length, repeatability, and possible sub-field identifiers.

 

2. Creating a Data Entry  Worksheet:                                                                              

   - Compile the default data entry worksheet using the Worksheet Editor.

   - Tailor separate worksheets to match distinct requirements, utilizing the features of the Worksheet Editor.

 

3. Defining Display/Print Formats:

   - Specify a default display/print format, outlining the arrangement and sequence of fields.

   - Utilize the Print Formatting Language to detail field manipulations, an integral language throughout the system.

   - Different display formats can be established to accommodate varying needs.

 

4. Creating the Field Selection Table (FST):

   - Entering data and forming search indexes are pivotal aspects of information storage and retrieval software.

   - Focus on user-friendliness, reliability, and data validation.

   - Before data entry, the system manager should define the worksheet.

   - The data entry process utilizes the Data Entry Menu.

   - The Field Editor controls entering and editing aspects of fields, offering features like insert, overwrite, cursor movement within a field, text deletion, and cut/paste functionalities.

   - Swift navigation between fields and pages of the worksheet is enabled.

   - If a field contains errors, the program issues error messages and audio signals.

   - For fields with multiple values, continuous entry separated by a (%) sign is supported.

 

 

    This comprehensive approach ensures the meticulous structuring and efficient utilization of the database, with a focus on user convenience, accurate data entry, and effective retrieval capabilities.

 

iii) Indexing

    Within the CDS/ISIS package, all selected indexing fields are consolidated into a singular file termed the 'inverted file.' This file holds indexing elements derived from lines, phrases enclosed in triangular brackets (< >), slashes (/), and individual words within the field. To enhance search efficiency, insignificant words can be excluded by defining them in a stop word file. After new records are entered, the inverted file requires updating to ensure accurate record retrieval during searches. CDS/ISIS allows flexibility in choosing when to update the inverted file.

 

iv) Searching the Database

    Database search and result presentation are integral facets of the CDS/ISIS package. The query formulation strategy, rooted in Boolean logic, is enhanced by proximity operators. Search capabilities are confined to indexed fields, as determined by the Field Selection Table (FST). Saved searches can be accessed for display, sorting, writing to disk, or printing. Further refinement is achievable by combining saved search expressions using Boolean operators. The output of search results can be tailored into various formats using the formatting language. 

    Beyond the discussed aspects, the micro CDS/ISIS package furnishes data exchange features. This means the software can import and export data files utilizing the ISO 2709 standard format. Such functionality facilitates the smooth transfer of databases between different information management systems, enhancing compatibility and interoperability.

Distribution of the Package 

    Over the past 12 years, CDS/ISIS software has gained immense popularity and stands as one of the most widely used packages in its category. Its user base is estimated at around 20,000 individuals globally. While UNESCO directly distributes many copies from its headquarters in Paris, the approach encourages the establishment of distribution centers in various countries, particularly where there's a substantial user count, thus alleviating UNESCO's financial burden. Officially appointed distributors, numbering 138 worldwide, with 72 being national members of UNESCO, contribute to the software's distribution network.

    The terms for utilizing CDS/ISIS are outlined within a license agreement signed between UNESCO (or its official distributor) and the recipient institution. The package is offered either for free or at a cost that covers production expenses for non-profit entities. Fundamental information regarding the CDS/ISIS package can be accessed through the Internet CDS/ISIS Home Page.

 

DELPHI-ISIS: A Front-End for CDS/ISIS Database Under Windows 95/NT

    A new user interface named DELPHI-ISIS, tailored for CDS/ISIS databases under Windows 95/NT, was recently reported in Information Studies (Vol.4, No. 4, Oct 1998). This interface seeks to address challenges faced by users employing the standard DOS version of CDS/ISIS.

     DELPHI-ISIS is a 32-bit graphical user interface (GUI) application developed using Borland's Rapid Application Development (RAD) tools. Following the Single Document Interface (SDI) model, it combines various functions like searching, browsing, displaying, sorting, printing, and downloading within a single window. This interface offers concurrent access to search history, retrieved records, search term dictionaries, and user-defined terms. Users can personalize search outputs, simultaneously search multiple databases, and enjoy the benefits of a streamlined installation process.

     DELPHI-ISIS is distributed on a single diskette and can be installed and configured with ease. The complete software version can be obtained by paying the associated cost from Shell L.J. Haravu, located at 69 Krishnapuri Colony, Hyderabad.

In Brief:

Main Features of CDS/ISIS Software Package

The CDS/ISIS Software Package encompasses several key features:

1. Handling Variable Length Records: Capable of managing records with varying lengths, optimizing disk space and accommodating more bibliographic information.

2. Database Definition Component: Allows users to define specific data for processing within applications.

3. Data Entry Component: Facilitates data entry and modification using user-created database worksheets.

4. Information Retrieval Component: Employs a robust search language with Boolean search methods and free-text search capabilities.

5. Powerful Report Generator: Enables users to generate printed products, including indexes.

6. Data Interchange Facility: Supports data exchange using the ISO 2709 standard format for bibliographic databases.

7. Integrated Application Programming Language: Incorporates CDS/ISIS Pascal for tailoring the software to users' specific needs.

8. Building Relational Databases: Assists in constructing relational databases and includes an interface with IDAMS software for statistical analysis.

Versions of CDS/ISIS

CDS/ISIS is currently available in three fully compatible versions for distinct hardware/software setups:

1. MS DOS Version 3.0: Supports local area networks.

2. UNIX Version: Initially designed for multi-user remote access, particularly through the Internet.

3. Windows Version: Optimized for the Windows operating system.

Database Creation Using CDS/ISIS Software

Creating a database using CDS/ISIS involves four fundamental steps:

1. Creating a Field Definition Table (FDT): Define data content in an FDT, detailing tag numbers, names, maximum lengths, repeatability, and sub-field identifiers for each field.

2. Creating a Data Entry Worksheet: Compile the default data entry worksheet using the Worksheet Editor. Tailor separate worksheets as needed.

3. Defining Display/Print Formats: Specify default display/print formats, using the Print Formatting Language to determine field manipulations. Custom display formats can be defined.

4. Creating the Field Selection Table (FST): Prior to data entry, system managers define the worksheet. Data entry and index creation are controlled by the Data Entry Menu and Field Editor. User-friendliness, reliability, and data validation are paramount considerations.

These steps collectively ensure the meticulous construction and management of databases, enhancing data retrieval and manipulation efficiency.