Computerized scientific exhibit utilization: observations from infoRAD at the Radiologic Society of North America Scientific Assembly.

No publication has discussed utilization of computer scientific exhibits (CSE) at national symposia, despite their growing numbers. The hypothesis of this project was that, when given a choice, viewers initially would prefer a more conventional paper presentation of a scientific exhibit over that of an electronic presentation. A nearly identical paper version of the introductory screen to an infoRAD CSE was placed adjacent to the workstation. Utilization of the paper introduction, computer introduction, and both, as well as subsequent behavior, was recorded. Of 67 visitors, initial user choice was 56.7% paper and 43.3% computer. Over the entire time at the exhibit 25.4% only looked at the handout, 25.4% only at the computer, and 49.3% perused both. Only 10.5% completed the entire exhibit, and 0.94% of total registrants visited the CSE. Overall, 74.7% perused the CSE when leaving the exhibit area. Upon arrival, viewers preferred the more conventional paper presentation, confirming the project hypothesis. Surprisingly, about 75% eventually perused at least a portion of the computer presentation. Although a small fraction of Radiologic Society of North America (RSNA) registrants visited the CSE, the findings presented are promising and suggest that CSE presence at national meetings is justifiable, providing a 'first step' toward CME outcomes analysis of CSE. Overall, these findings are promising and suggest that computer scientific exhibit presence at national meetings is justifiable. Copyright © 2001 by W.B. Saunders Company [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]