This feasibility study will design the database and information processing system for and test a system mock-up of a microcomputer-based statistical information system on long-term care and aging. The project will also create a system development plan and time schedule and, using potential user survey information, focus group findings, and the mock-up system test findings as well as related information, assess the technical and commercial feasibility of this information system.The planned system will include demographic and medical data for the nation and the states, population-based projections and forecasts, and similar information pertinent to analysis and planning vis-a-vis the aging and their long-term care uses and needs. The system will also contain data source bibliographic materials. Overall, it will build on recent work in developing a published factbook on long-term care and aging and on Levine Associates, Inc.'s, expertise in the subject matter and in microcomputer database management techniques. The major issues in Phase I are: (1) database content and structure design, (2) development and testing of methods for creating the database, (3) design and field testing of a system mock-up, (4) distribution and supplementary product design, (5) market analysis, (6) developmental planning, and (7) feasibility assessment.
Anticipated Results:The results of this project are intended primarily for the roughly 4,000 public academic libraries, most of which are equipped to use CD-ROM products. In the longer run, it is intended to market to industry, government, and nonprofit institutions, as well as individuals. Pretesting and market analysis indicate that this is a very viable commercialization strategy.National Institute on Aging
