Reflecting recent developments in computer-based information systems, this book consists of verbal and flow-charted descriptions of 35 exemplary federal systems. They are arranged by government agency, with each description providing background information, discussions of current operations, and future plans. (SH)

Several presentations were made at the eighth meeting of the National Commission on New Technological Uses of Copyrighted Works (CONTU). The president of the Association for Computing Machinery addressed the issue of interactions of computer technology and economics, education, and society. A representative from the Center for Educational Media…

The specific objectives of the project were to (1) computerize previously developed occupational information for on-line delivery capabilities as well as for development of computer output microfiche, (2) develop manual pinsorts to aid secondary and postsecondary students in exploring occupational information, (3) develop special materials for…

The rationale and development of the University of Houston College of Optometry's revised practice management curriculum are discussed, and the curriculum is outlined. It focuses on development of competence in communications, data management, ethics, practice management, and public health practice. (MSE)

This article defines three separate categories of microcomputers--personal, desk-top, multi-user devices--and relates storage capabilities (expandability, floppy disks) to library applications. Highlghts include de facto standards, operating systems, database management systems, applications software, circulation control systems, dumb and…

Questions administrators need to answer when selecting or evaluating a computerized personnel and/or payroll information system cover the type of system, resources for purchasing and/or developing it, activities needed and used for, its use, and issues of responsibility. (MSE)

Recommends the use of computer graphics for making smart and quick decisions and reducing costs. Discusses the advantage of having user-friendly graphics, the importance of using a proper format, the basic steps for generating computer graphics, and the need to be aware of possible abuse or misuse of graphics. (EL)

An information system that shows the relationship between space utilization, capital investment, operating costs, and the physical environment is necessary for effective facility management. A Texas school district established a program to actively manage its facilities. (MLF)

Describes the Personalized Admissions and Advisement System introduced at Triton College, Illinois, to administer student recruitment, admissions, advising, and initial orientation. The article compares the old and the new systems and points out the benefits of the computer-assisted method, particularly as related to speed and ease of data…

Explains the Systems Development Life Cycle (SDLC) construct, which is used for development of management information systems, and analyzes the staffing composition of SDLC steps for nonprofit arts organizations including art museums and symphony orchestras. The use of outside help, in-house personnel, and volunteers is examined; and the influence…

Development and implementation of a shared distributed computing architecture at the University of Alberta (Canada) are described. Aspects discussed include design of the architecture, users' views of the electronic environment, technical and managerial challenges, and the campuswide human infrastructures needed to manage such an integrated…

This paper proposes a model for a general interface between people and Computer Algebra Systems (CAS). The main features in the CAS interface are data navigation and the possibility of accessing powerful remote machines. This model is based on the idea of session management, in which the main engine of the tool enables interactions with the…

The use of microcomputers by college administrators to increase productivity is discussed. Microcomputers can help increase productivity in the following administrative office tasks: decision support, communication, personal assistance, and task management. One of the most promising developments to emerge from the decision sciences over the past…

New roles for college institutional researchers in the area of data administration and management that have resulted from developments in computer technology are reviewed. These developments include easily accessed databases, user-friendly software, and powerful and inexpensive hardware. The growing demand for data, combined with a general lack of…

This paper explores ways in which technology (especially microcomputers) can improve the access to and utility of educational data for school improvement efforts. The paper focuses on the product and project options available to the Northwest Regional Educational Laboratory's Database and School Profiling program, which offers technical and…