The emergence of information networks

Abstract

The information industry has introduced a proliferation of alternative products all supposedly open and capable of interworking. The Automobile Association (AA) responded by developing an information technology strategy based initially on three technology platforms-ICL VME mainframe, UNIX server, and PC/MS DOS-with long-distance connection through X25. Among the issues discussed are the concept of an information network, systems architecture, user presentation, information base, and common services comprising functions such as electronic mail, directory, and file transfer.<>