RECENT DEVELOPMENTS in electronic technologies have revolutionized the way people communicate. Information can be retrieved at astounding speeds -- but for optimal results, one must have access to the technologies and know how to use them.

GTRI researchers working on a project called FoodLINK say advanced information technologies offer countless possibilities for Georgia's food industry.

Research engineer Chris Thompson is heading a feasibility study to assess methods that could connect the food industry with informational resources using cutting-edge information retrieval systems. His team is evaluating an advanced communications infrastructure built around the Internet and tailored to the needs of FoodPAC advisory members, researchers, education centers and industrial partners. Using FoodLINK, a company having a problem with wastewater treatment could easily find out what the current regulations are, which institutions and vendors could handle this problem, and the costs of their services.

FoodLINK could deliver a range of services including messaging, data transfer, information searching, distance training and even long-distance virtual laboratory support. Electronic linkages among food companies, governmental agencies, universities and suppliers would promote rapid and efficient communication.
-- Dara O'Neil

Further information is available from Chris Thompson, Electro-optics, Environment and Materials Laboratory, Georgia Tech Research Institute, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA 30332-0823. (Telephone: 404/894-6143) (E-mail: chris.thompson@gtri.gatech.edu)

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Last updated: 12 Sept. 1996