Suggests that inexperienced buyers inform themselves and seek expert advice before making decisions to buy some of the more complex and costly computer-based library systems being offered. General guidelines are presented for selecting a system and for using consultants. Considered also are the mutual needs of librarians and vendors. (JPF)

Outlines the major questions which should be considered by an individual purchasing commercially packaged software for use on a personal computer. (JL)

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)

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

Provides a generalized overview of the problems that software buyers are likely to encounter and could overcome. Experiences of Online, Inc., in purchasing programs, using software documentation or manuals, and problems with software, provide examples. (EJS)

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)

A checklist has been developed as a reference to the basic issues which should be covered in contracts for lease or purchase of computer software and custom software packages. The terms have been selected from contracts used by colleges, universities, and the General Services Administration of the U.S. Government governing the lease and purchase…

Guidelines for selecting/buying educational software are discussed under the following headings: educational soundness; appropriateness; challenge and progress; motivation and reward; correctness; compatibility with systems; instructions and handlings. Includes several sources of software reviews. (JN)

Provides a checklist useful to teachers purchasing programs or wishing to create their own programs, suggesting that creating and evaluating programs on the precepts of goal setting, curiosity, and fantasy should ensure a good return on the software production/purchasing dollar. (MP)

Examination of the emergence of microcomputer word processing in the library environment highlights library applications, hardware considerations, evaluations of four word processing programs (Apple Writer II, Screen Writer II, Magic Wand, WordStar), and "nonperformance" factors that influence selection of word processing package. Ten…

Explains how a microcomputer scheduling program works and discusses specific features that should be considered in selecting a program. A chart detailing capabilities of 17 scheduling programs is included. (MBR)

This paper identifies concerns and provides guidelines for the administrator or teacher who is involved in making decisions about acquiring, maintaining, or expanding computer resources. Several questions are raised and topics discussed which focus attention upon various specific elements in a system which are pertinent to procurement. Major…

This publication provides guidance for the introduction of computer software tools within agencies of the United States government or within other installations where there has been little or no prior use of software tools. From a survey of current tool usage, it is concluded that the greatest obstacles to effective use of software tools are…