Blast from the Past: FPRA Online 1995
Posted by Josh Hallett on September 4, 2007 at 09:41 AM
Do you remember FPRAonline? I'm not talking about the first web site, I'm talking about the original FPRAonline....from 1995. Yes, a little over 12 years ago the organization created its first online presence with a dial-up bulletin-board system (BBS). It all started on January 3, 1995.
While cleaning out some files this weekend I found a copy of the original install floppy-disk, remember those? I took a photo to post here.
There was also an instruction sheet that came with the disk. Here are some highlights:
Q. What is an 'on-line' service?
A. A computer filled with information that others may access from their computers via modem over telephone lines.
Q. Does it cost to use this service?
A. The cost of operating the FPRA system is included in your membership dues. You will incur long-distance telephone charges.
Q. If I don't use the system will I 'miss' important communications?
A. No, not at present. FPRA will continue to publish written communication via Esprit!, PR Florida and the membership directory. However, over the next several years it is expected that the trend will be electronic delivery of information. At some point in time, the association may deem the online service as the primary method for communicating with members.
Q. What will I find on the system?
A. General FPRA Information, Statewide Job Bank, FPRA Book Source, News, Tips, Accolades, Electronic Mail, FPRA Calendar, State Board Information. In the future: Golden Image Winner Summaries, Shopping Mall, Annual Conference Information.
Quite a look back. While some of the questions are dated, some of the same core issues are still around today. Has electronic communication taken over for print? Yes and no.
Visitor Comments
Electronic communication has no doubt replaced print when it comes to breaking news and information. In many ways it has upstaged traditional broadcast media, too.
I still, however, encounter many situations which call for printed communication, including brochures, annual reports, new employee handbooks, hurricane handbooks...
Posted by: Chris Gent | September 4, 2007 10:00 AM
Oh my, Josh. That relic looks like it's more than 12 years old. It's remarkable to me how many technological advances PR has seen and implemented into daily practice in such a short time period.
Posted by: Jamie Floer | September 8, 2007 11:17 PM