I have also been in contact with Micromedex about their pricing structure,
among other things.  It is likely that we will no longer be able to afford
this product in the bundled mainframe version.  I have asked for price
sheets for both stand-alone and networked CD versions.  Will we be able to
continue to offer the same level of service with either of these options?
No.  But neither can I continue to justify to my administration the
charges we are being asked to pay.
 
In my discussions with Bob Ackley and others at Micromedex, it is pointed
out that Micromedex is a dynamic product, with information being added
with each update, as Suzanne also points out.  Price aside, that creates a
massive space problem for us on our equipment.  The latest update maxed
out the capacity of our VAX. We've also been told that the CD version is
going to 2 disks.  We have the CD version as a backup in a CD tower.  We
have no more slots for another disk.  This uncontrolled growth is costing
us in more than just the product price.  And it is very difficult to
justify new capital equipment purchases needed to accomodate a product
that we also have to pay more for.
 
I have been complaining to Micromedex about these issues (and others) for
a number of years.  The complaints are obviously not being addressed.
I'm afraid that the only message I can send now will be with our
checkbook.
 
Laurie Thompson
Associate Director, Himmelfarb Health Sciences Library
George Washington University
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