HSPD Query Process:

Since the HSPD databases are hierarchical in organization, the
user can retrieve more detailed information with a more
particular (qualified) query.  If the user desires, information
that does not exactly match but is related to the query
parameters can also be retrieved from the databases.  The query
process instructs the user to enter data specifiers that
establish the context of the information query.  These specifiers
are element, unit, material, type, and problem.  Only one
specifier needs to be entered to begin a search of the database,
but the more parameters specified, the greater the detail and
context sensitivity of the information retrieved.  In addition to
the five specifier fields, the user can choose to retrieve data
"related" to the specified search parameters.  To retrieve
detailed information about a particular topic, the query itself
must be as detailed as possible.  General query parameters yield
only the most generic levels of information.  As an alternative
to a well defined query, the HSPD does allow the user to specify
"ALL" as a search parameter. This all inclusive specifier will
yield information about the query topic from every category in
each database (except the reference database).  

If mistakes are made in specifying query parameters, the user can
respond "Yes" to a final prompt of "Any Corrections?" before the
search begins.  The user is then returned to top of the specifier
screen.  The program does not give the user the ability to move
backwards on the specifier screen, so corrections tend to be
rather cumbersome.  When returning to the specifier screen,
whatever search parameters were last entered remain on the screen
as the default specifiers.

The HSPD has context sensitive "Help" which can be called during
the process of entering query parameters by pressing the [F2]
function key.  A screen will appear that presents an explanation
of the current operation and examples of allowable user input. 
After reviewing the Help screen(s), the user is returned to the
current operation and can then continue the execution of the
program.

Search results are presented sequentially to the user.  On the
last screen of the search results, the program informs the user
about "related information that the computer cannot automatically
include as part of the data set... requested" (Battle, 1988). 
Additional information pertaining to ASTM standards, National
Park Service policies, federal specifications, and other relevant
references is also displayed if available.  A bibliographical
database is also intended to become part of the system, with
annotations and abstracts to be included according to
availability.  In the final step of the HSPD data retrieval
process, the user can send the complete set of retrieved data to
a printer after the screens have been reviewed.

<dfile18>   HSPD: Premise
<dfile21>   HSPD: Assembly