Discusses the selection and purchase of microcomputer software, recommending that buyers beware of free or undemonstrated software, buy computer programs written in assembly language, and evaluate the company as well as the software. A software evaluation checklist is included. (JJD)

Suggests practical measures for evaluating computer hardware. (JL)

Explains how schools can purchase computer software. Lists are presented of (1) sources of published evaluations of selected software, (2) publications which contain names and sources of programs, and (3) magazines providing program listings appropriate for classroom use. (CT)

A multiplicity of software products are available for human resource management applications. The aim of this article is to assist personnel managers in negotiating contracts with vendors of such software products. (Author/MLF)

As school districts increasingly acquire administrative application software, a concern will be to maintain compatability levels among programs. How to determine compatability levels and software integration needs are discussed, as well as ways to integrate specific application and general application software. (MBR)

Beginning on the cover, this article suggests school administrators can reduce paperwork burdens by using personal computers along with general software programs. Describes general programs--such as word processing, item bank, electronic worksheet, and database management programs--and discusses their applications and gives tips for buying and…

Six school administrators and computer users give advice on coping with microcomputer software problems. Suggestions include contacting other software users, sampling computer programs or watching software demonstrations before buying, and ensuring adequate program documentation. (RW)

A computer program that utilizes an optical scanning machine is used for ordering supplies in a Louisiana school system. The program provides savings in time and labor, more accurate data, and easy-to-use reports. (Author/MLF)

A step-by-step guide to setting up an inventory control system that works. (Author)

Questions to ask concerning microcomputer software to be used for school business management. (MLF)

Provides a checklist for helping educators estimate the costs of purchasing computers and maintaining a computer program. (MP)

An overview of what is available in energy management systems, tips for writing specifications, and pitfalls to avoid. (MLF)

Offers guidelines for successfully selecting computer software, integrating it into the school operation, and training personnel. (MLF)

Continued from the front cover, this article offers suggestions about selecting and purchasing microcomputers and software for schools. (WD)

The first article in a three-part series to help purchasers obtain the best computer software for their budgets tells how to define requirements before soliciting bids for software. (Author/MLF)