Discusses the functions of business planning systems and analyzes the underlying assumptions of the information systems that support strategic planning efforts within organizations. Development of a system framework, obstacles to the successful creation of strategic planning information systems, and resource allocation in organizations are…

Requests by external agencies for information about many facets of institutional operations and resources are examples of the complexity of higher education functions and societal demands. These requests are the result of uncertainty regarding external perception of tasks performed in higher education. (Author/MLW)

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)

The goal model is appropriate for evaluating effectiveness in complex service organizations because there are measurable outputs. An empirical method is provided for the identification and measurement of organizational goals. Perception of effectiveness could be improved if goals were made to coincide with the desires of user groups. (DWH)

The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point approach to implementing an ideal student records system is discussed. The characteristics of such a system are defined and a model for directing the development and implementation of a new student records system is presented. (Author/MLW)

A survey of 116 central office administrators in over 50 public and private school systems in western Pennsylvania examined the administrators' use of test data and other information on organizational performance. Respondents' preferences for nontest data lead the authors to suggest a new model of administrators' usage of performance information.…

The simplicity of system design and productivity techniques used in development of an on-line management information system at Boston College is explained. The simplicity of system design means that all terminal transactions in the system are limited in function, small in size, uncomplicated, and easy to implement. (Author/MLW)

On the basis of information obtained from a study of former mental patients (which was conducted under a research grant from the state of Florida), the authors point out the critical need for more comprehensive management information systems. Twelve specific steps for designing such a system are outlined. (Author/JH)

The rising demand for accountability has had a great influence on the design and use of management information systems. The purposes of accountability, needs assessment, and program evaluation would be well served if a set of indlcators could include information about the outcomes of higher education. (MLW)

Management information systems fail because they are based on the assumption that more facts are needed and they overtax computer systems. The alternative proposed here is much smaller (in data banks and dollars) than conventional systems and is designed to aid decision making rather than to build banks of facts. (Author/IRT)

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 Pendleton Computer Science Center of Pepperdine University is described. Computer services provided through University Information Services include management information and technical expertise for design, implementation and operation of the system. Business and academic applications of the computer facilities are also discussed. (SF)

The conventional wisdom about designing and operating school/university collaboratives has created a mythology of collaboration that obscures and distorts the reality. This article debunks four myths concerning planners' perceived need for clear goals, carefully planned activities, agreements about definitions, and group permanency. Four myths…

Describes the process of developing an administrative information system for the University of Debrecen (Hungary), a merger of four small universities and three colleges. Focuses on administrative applications (personnel, enrollment management, student records, financial aid, curriculum materials), student access to computers, campus-wide…

Reports on ongoing work at five universities in northeastern England that have been evaluating and implementing online learning environments known as virtual learning environments (VLEs) or managed learning environments (MLEs). Discusses do-it-yourself versus commercial systems; transferability; Web-based versus client-server; integration with…