The metric system is discussed in this information analysis paper with regard to its history, a rationale for the United States' adoption of the metric system, a brief overview of the basic units of the metric system, examples of how the metric system will be used in different occupations, and recommendations for research and development. The intent is to assist curriculum developers, administrators, and program planners in vocational, technical, and adult basic education in understanding issues in metrication, the metric system, and curriculum and instructional strategies as they begin the transition to the metric system of measurement. The basic parts of the metric system (linear measure, area, volume and capacity, mass, temperature, and metric notation) and the changes that will need to be made in different occupations are discussed with illustrations provided where appropriate. Occupations discussed are grouped under the following cluster headings: agribusiness and natural resources, business and office, communication media, construction, environmental control, health occupations, home economics, hospitality and recreation, manufacturing, marketing and distribution, personal services, public services, and transportation. Appendixes include tables of metric unit prefixes and typing and keypunching style sheets for metric notation. (TA)