Information management identifies what will be defined as information, how it will be produced, and by whom it will be used. Information resource management goes beyond the scope of traditional data processing, and is essential for the effective operation of an organization. (SK)

Introduces three articles that identify various types of database management programs, discuss their basic features and some typical applications and present a table of the leading programs available; profile several companies that are utilizing database management systems; and illustrate several unusual home applications for hobbyists. (MBR)

The ability of operating departments of an institution to mechanically gather, summarize, and report "local" data is discussed. Problems are outlined that arise when departments have the ability to produce data and do so with rigorous quality control by the institution's central information management organization. (MLW)

The types of skills employers require of today's office worker fall into two categories: general office competencies and changing technology skills. (SK)

Discusses the functions of business planning systems and analyzes the underlying assumptions of the information systems that support strategic planning efforts within organizations. Development of a system framework, obstacles to the successful creation of strategic planning information systems, and resource allocation in organizations are…

Requests by external agencies for information about many facets of institutional operations and resources are examples of the complexity of higher education functions and societal demands. These requests are the result of uncertainty regarding external perception of tasks performed in higher education. (Author/MLW)

The need for information controls for college records management programs and the elements of program organization, planning, and management are discussed. Conditions at institutions that indicate a flaw in information control are identified, along with the benefits of a sound records management program. The management of an information and…

Users of computer services want and are willing to pay for the ability to locate, manipulate, and analyze the information they need. Strategies for effective user relations are discussed, including how data processing personnel can discover who the users are, appropriate methods of user/data processing involvement, etc. (Author/MLW)

The effective management of the university depends on the research office providing usable, accurate, timely, and accessible information regarding sponsored programs. The utilization of automated systems to store, access, and manage information is seen as essential. (MLW)

Seven institutional research maxims based on research and theory about how people cognitively process information are discussed: more may not be better; augment humans with models; chunk data wisely; know decision-makers; heuristics are not always helpful; arrange tables by patterns; and accept negative evidence and new hypotheses. (Author/MLW)

The opportunities for improved internal communication through the use of information technology are discussed. A case is made for the leverage gained by investing in computer-based, information technology. Potential impacts on physical space, staff productivity, circulation patterns, and organizational structure are suggested. (Author/MLW)

The politics of information on college campuses are seen in national, regional, and statewide concern with planning, management, and evaluation. Concepts, methods, and information-processing styles in each of these three institutional functions have been greatly influenced by political pressures in the past 15 years. (Author/MLW)

Trends in computing and office automation and their applications, including planning, institutional research, and general administrative support in higher education, are discussed. Changing aspects of information processing and an increasingly larger user community are considered. The computing literacy cycle may involve programming, analysis, use…

These proceedings contain 11 papers that focus on how education must change what and how it teaches to keep up with the technological revolution. The presentations address the need for vocational education to produce students with skills in electronics and data communications (including computer-to-computer transmission); office systems and…