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)

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…

Case study of the impact of school management information systems on principal-parent interrelations concerning learning, behavior, and attendance at a vocational high school in Israel. (Contains 82 references.) (PKP)

As seen in the proposed Maryland School Performance Program, need to synthesize data into meaningful information and ability to explore data relationships could be keys to improved student achievement. Montgomery County's School Based Instructional Monitoring System (SIMS) will permit its instructional leadership staff to examine and interrelate…

A decision support system (DSS) is an interactive computerized system capable of providing direct, personal support for complex managerial decisions. This paper reviews DDSs and their general capabilities, describes potential benefits to school administrators, presents DDS applications in several school districts, and discusses implementation…

The purposes for publishing a factbook at the University of California, Santa Cruz, are reviewed and then used as a context to illustrate why this evolution took place and what was learned from the experience. Fact sheets, an on-line electronic factbook, and electronic databases are now being used. (MLW)

For strategic financial planning, institutions must determine their objectives and priorities, and adapt resource planning decisions to them. They must think in terms of efficient resource use and operational effectiveness. Strategic planning requires flexibility to adapt to changing environments and reallocate resources, and needs an effective…