DATABASE SUPPORT

The information that your organisation generates about its products, research or services is a key resource. Vital Information can help you make the best use of that knowledge.

	Database work was one of the first services offered by Vital Information. We can support all the tasks associated with database maintenance and development. Our particular strength is having the necessary subject knowledge that supplements our information skills.
While we can provide consultancy services, we only offer advice when it is asked for. Our aim is to fit seamlessly into your department.
¨ Indexing and abstracting
We have a track record in providing timely and accurate indexing and abstracting services to our clients’ guidelines. Vital Information can help with a backlog or provide a regular service on a monthly, weekly or even daily basis.
¨ Thesauri
Controlled subject indexing is the key to reliable retrieval from a database. We can advise on suitable subject indexing schemes and thesauri or help you to create or revise your own.
¨ Indexing standards
Consistency of indexing is impossible without clear guidelines for indexers. Vital Information can help you write and maintain an indexing manual.
¨ Training
We can provide indexing training for your staff, in both the general principles of information handling and points specific to your in-house system.
¨ Database design
If you are introducing a new database Vital Information can work alongside your system designers to ensure that the database meets your information needs.
¨ Database editing
Vital Information can check, verify and edit your data. If you have an established database that needs checking for currency or have converted data from a different system we can help you maintain the quality and integrity of your information.

Over the last twenty years we have been involved in the development of databases of all sizes and although most have been pharmaceutical or heath care related we have also tackled other areas where specialist subject knowledge is less critical. We count ten major pharmaceutical companies among the users of this service.