A visit to American University's Department of Computer Services is summarized. Administrative systems in use and currently in production are described and a productive application of "structured walk-throughs" for systems design, computer programs, procedures, and documentation is discussed. (MLW)

The findings of a CAUSE survey of institutions of higher education that are either currently using or have used a database management system are presented. In addition to demographic information, other issues addressed are: management implications, systems concepts, systems development, personnel, operational considerations and prospects for the…

Strategic decision-making as a part of the higher education planning process is becoming more dependent upon data elements external to the institution. The context in which postsecondary education takes place, the maturation of the planning function, and the challenge to management systems for postsecondary education are discussed. (Author/MLW)

The administrative computing operation of Clemson University is discussed. The university's computing history, computer hardware, and computing organization (including the Computer Center, administrative programing services, and information systems development) are described. (MLW)

A project management system for organizing requests from multiple departments and controlling the workload of the development/maintenance computer staff is described. Practical solutions to deciding project priorities, determining time estimates, creating positive peer pressure among programing staff, and formalizing information requests are…

The administrative computing strategy that clarified requirements for the access control system and the concepts implemented to ensure a secure information processing environment are reviewed. Implementation at Virginia Tech resulted in the ability to electronically capture a document and route it through channels for electronic signature…

Man-machine interface, the concept of a computer "query," a review of database technology, and a description of the use of query languages at Brigham Young University are discussed. The pros and cons of end-user use of database query languages are explored. (Author/MLW)

An overview of the options and opportunities postsecondary institutions should consider when developing plans for student aid automation is provided. The role of automation in the financial aid office, interfaces with institutional and external systems, alternative approaches to automation, and the need for an institutional strategy for automation…

The experience of a small liberal arts college in trying to develop a usable and understandable planning, management, and evaluation (PME) system is described. PME tasks in small colleges center upon selecting starting points, demonstrating how different procedures can facilitate operations and decision making, and educating people. (Author/MLW)

The administrative data processing department at Michigan State provides support to all colleges and departments, and designs, programs, tests, and implements university management systems. A steering committee determines priorities for development projects and provides a sounding board for long-range plans of information systems. (MLW)

Improved data processing services have increased efficiency and productivity at Pacific Lutheran. By performing administrative tasks more efficiently, the university can maintain accurate records, report information promptly, and extend better overall service to the university community. (MLW)

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)

With a unique organizational structure, the Rockefeller University's need for administrative information systems is different from most institutions of higher education. The financial reporting needs of the many different laboratories led the university to purchase a computer-based accounting system. (MLW)

With more and more users in colleges and universities relying on electronic information, the need for a contingency plan in the event of a disaster has become more pressing. Setting objectives, impact analysis, interim processing strategy, working with users, and a two-level approach are discussed. (MLW)

The evolution of administrative data processing systems at the University of Georgia is summarized. Nolan's revised stage model was used as a framework to present the university's experience and relate it to the growing body of system implementation research. (Author/MLW)