Transactional voice technology to improve Wisconsin Lake Michigan fisheries

During the period October 1, 1996 - September 30, 1997, we accomplished the following tasks. 1) We purchased voice technology hardware and software from Mastermind Technologies Inc. 2) We completed the initial design ofthe charter reporting program. 3) We started internal beta integration problems. test of software to detect any errors and computer related 4) We set up a 800 phone line into the computer system in preparation of continuing the beta test by a select group ofcharter captains for the 1997 fishing season. 5) We ran the beta test of the Charter reporting program in July and August with 31 charter captains fishing on Lake Michigan and Lake Superior. 6) A total of 225 calls were received using the system with 240 trips entered. No errors were recorded during the entry of data. 7) A survey was sent to all captains that participated during the beta test. The captains were asked to indicate whether the computer system was easy or difficult to use based on a 1 through 5 rating system. A 1 indicated that it was easy and a 5 indicated that is was difficult to use. The average rating for all the questions was 1.5. Separate questions had the captains list potential problems and whether they would use the system on a volunteer basis in the future. A total of6 out of 1 7 indicated they would use the system. 8) Rule packages were created that would allow the voluntary use of the charter computer system starting in August of 1998. A different state statute package was also created that would make the use ofthe charter system mandatory. 9) A total of 207 permanent hours were spent on the charter computer system from October 1, 1996 to September 30, 1997. Project: AFC - 19 Completion Report Grant no. NA66FA0240