The software for library professionals
WinIBW is Pica's search interface for library staff. WinIBW is a multifunctional, fast and effective tool with which you can use OCLC PICA's library systems in a uniform way. Owing to its IP-connectivity, WinIBW is particularly fit for use in an Internet/WWW oriented environment.
Functionality
WinIBW is developed to optimally support library staff in their daily routines. Library staff can use all functions in OCLC PICA's library systems in a uniform and standardised way.
WinIBW can be used for:
- entering bibliographic records in the shared catalogue system
- searching in the union catalogue and handling the ILL process
- the various modules in the local library system for loan-, acquisitions administration and cataloguing
- registering end-users
- retrieving statistical data
- sending Pica mail
Characteristic for WinIBW is its simple operation. All processes can be activated with help of the OCLC PICA command language. The most important functions are presented as buttons and can be started with a single mouse click. It is possible to learn the OCLC PICA command language in one day during one of our trainings.
WinIBW is largely based on standard Windows-functionality. This makes it possible for instance to have several windows opened simultaneously, in which sessions to various systems can be started. Via the Windows menu bar any number of practical options can be activated, such as defining macros to pre-program routine actions. Other menu-options are related to the printer definitions and the fonts and screen colours. WinIBW supports scripting with Visual Basic which makes it possible to perform advanced, automated actions.
Communication
Datacommunication is based on the TCP/IP protocol. Each task sent to on of the OCLC PICA systems is validated by WinIBW. Because the Windows sockets also support SLIP and PPP connections, it is also possible to use WinIBW in combination with a modem. In that case, the connection with OCLC PICA is made via an Internet provider. There is no limit for the transmission speed: the speed of WinIBW is determined by the baudrate of the modem used.
System's requirements
For optimal performance of WinIBW a Pentium PC with 16 MB internal memory is advised. WinIBW is developed for an operating system of Windows 95/98 and NT.
