Thinking About Technology – Watson, Answer Me This: Will You Make Librarians Obsolete or Can I Use Free and Open Source Software and Cloud Computing to Ensure a Bright Future?

Authors

Darla Jackson, University of Oklahoma College of Law

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2011

Publication Title

Law Library Journal

Abstract

In February 2011, Watson, IBM's "smart" computer, defeated two former Jeopardy champions. While the application of the technology may support some legal research functions, the current state of the technology probably will not allow Watson to replace law librarians in the near future. Yet, given the economic realities of our firms and institutions, librarians do need to consider technologies that may reduce the considerable cost associated with discovering and maintaining access to legal information. Free and open source software and systems and cloud-based initiatives may provide innovative approaches librarians should consider.

Volume

103

Issue

3

First Page

497

Recommended Citation

Darla W. Jackson, Thinking About Technology – Watson, Answer Me This: Will You Make Librarians Obsolete or Can I Use Free and Open Source Software and Cloud Computing to Ensure a Bright Future?, 103 Law Library Journal 497 (2011).