A computer named Sophia at Smith College does far more than routine data processing. Her activities range from matching roommates to classifying plants. (Author/MLF)

A 1974 survey sent to state agencies responsible for higher education in each of the fifty states, attempted to ascertain the state of the art of statewide management information systems for higher education. The survey requested information on seven areas of state level MIS: (1) the types of analytical tools, computer programs and systems being…

GENIRAS (Generalized Information Storage, Retrieval, and Application System) is the name given to a computer-aided information system designed for the storage, retrieval, analysis, manipulation, and display of records, files, and associated data. It is intended to characterize the integration of the data storage and retrieval functions of…

An effort was made to operate a computer simulation of individualized self-paced instruction concurrently and in parallel with an actual conventional course. The simulation was in effect a management information system for instructors and students, with modifications as they were made by participants. A pilot program was run at Catholic University…

Recent technological advances have put alumni-development computer systems within reach of most colleges and universities. Options, including the types of hardware available, the many ways to match an office's needs to your hardware, and the types of software available are discussed. (MLW)

Purchased application software has created a new set of problems for project managers charged with selection and implementation responsibilities. Eight activity phases in the software selection process are identified. Development and utilization of this approach at the University of Houston are described. (Author/MLW)

The applications of a recently developed computer program for microcomputers in developing models in an institutional research environment are considered. The VISICALC program requires no user programming skills, is available for all major brands of microcomputers, and provides for easy exchange of information between users of different computing…

The development of information systems using an engineering approach that uses both traditional programing techniques and fourth generation software tools is described. Fourth generation applications tools are used to quickly develop a prototype system that is revised as the user clarifies requirements. (MLW)

Clemson University has developed techniques and procedures to assist in the construction and maintenance of administrative systems. Procedures as well as the tools and techniques used by all systems are discussed: online report request software, online user table maintenance software, report supervisor and report writer software, etc. (Author/MLW)

This paper proposes construction of a separate data base environment for university planning information, distinct from data bases and systems supporting operational functioning and management. The data base would receive some of its input from the management information systems (MIS)/transactional data bases and systems through a process of…

The dissemination and use of software from the National Center for Higher Education Management Systems (NCHEMS) has had a definite impact on the development of management information systems in postsecondary education. In addition to the NCHEMS information system products, a computer software package called HEPS (Higher Education Planning System)…

Carnegie-Mellon University is using word processing in several modes to enhance communication: dedicated word processing system, word processing package on a general-purpose minicomputer, computer mail, text editor, text formatter, spelling checker, and programmable printer. Each mode of word processing is discussed. (Author/MLW)

Describes a department-level budgeting system that uses computer assistance. (IRT)

Establishing the computerized information needs of a college development office involves defining the reporting needs, understanding the concept and content of structured files, defining the data elements to be included in those files, and outlining the potentially useful applications of the information and programs. (MSE)

User dissatisfaction with computer systems usually results from too little involvement of the user in the programing process. Defining information requirements satisfactorily and taking steps toward smooth staff acceptance of the system are important prerequisites to satisfaction with the system's design. (MSE)