Describes a series of decision-making steps regarding the purchase of microcomputers for administrative use in schools. Includes such topics as defining information needs and purchasing computer hardware and software. (Author/JJD)

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)

Independent schools should consider installing computerized records management and word processing in development offices for efficiency, cost containment, better service, targeted solicitations, and information availability for decision making. However, an understanding of what can and cannot be accomplished is essential in deciding on computer…

The procedures for producing a report on departmental service to nonmajors are described in detail. The objective was to provide information for decision-making needs without reliance on the standardized pre-packaged models. An alternative to the Induced Course Load Matrix (ICLM) of the Resource Requirements Prediction Model (RRPM) package of the…

The characteristics of application generators and the reasons they are and will be used increasingly in collegiate institutional research are addressed. The incorporation of application generators within a total institutional data and information processing network is also outlined. The analysis considers the often noted "gap" between…

Describes a computerized information system for student records used in the Masters of Business Administration program at Texas A and M University. File design, processing procedures, and software programs are examined. (Author/JJD)

Six reports concerning design of an information system to aid the Los Angeles city schools in implementing accountability and program budgeting are summarized. Extensive interviewing and system analysis led to focusing decisionmaking and accountability on the individual school principal, unlike the present centralized decisionmaking and resource…

The development, use, and management of information systems in higher education are examined in these proceedings of the 1979 College and University Systems Exchange (CAUSE) National Conference. General sessions deal with computer management to data resource management and institutional perspective for the 1980's. The remaining sessions are…