Vectors of Change: Electronic Information from 1977 to 2007

Reference Type Journal Article
Year of Publication
1997
Contributors Author: Stephen E. Arnold
Author: Eric S. Arnold
Journal
Online
Volume
21
Issue
4
Pagination
18-33
Language
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Region
Chronological Period
Abstract
Many of the assumptions, technologies, and business models of the first 30 years of online and electronic information are now inapplicable. In 1977, the general business climate for information was stable. By 1997, the general business climate had changed. In this new yardstick, one year of Internet time is equivalent to 7 years of regular time. The most dramatic changes occurred between 1987 and 1997. Worldwide usage of online services exceeded 35 million, up 35 times in a decade. By 1987, distinct markets existed, including the library and academic markets. By 1997, these once beefy markets became hamburger. The Internet was the grinder. Since electronic information has entered the mainstream, sales tactics follow fashion: infomercials, special offers, and free services make information marketing a colorful, entertaining bazaar. Content has gone through a singular transformation. In addition to a way for branded information providers to capture customer attention, individuals and small businesses now have a new information dissemination medium. Other events and activities driving electronic information change are discussed.