Evaluation systems aimed primarily at helping administrators and faculty in the governance and administration of institutions (for improvement in curriculum, services, or research or reallocation of resources) are discussed. A formal evaluation system involves the establishment, maintenance, and operation of an information system. (MLW)

INDEX, an interactive retrieval program developed at Pepperdine University, is described. It is easy to use and maintain, locates sources of information from a general description of the information needed, requires only a modest investment of time, and is widely applicable. (MLW)

Florida International University is one of nine public universities in a state university system that provides computer support by the SUS Computer Network. An administrative computer user's committee was established to aid in the determination of universitywide priorities. (MLW)

A study was conducted to evaluate the extent to which student data quantification is being employed or planned in schools of allied health professions. The study included the areas of computerization, administrative control, data diversity, legal aspects, and the nature of alumni follow-ups. (CT)

A guide for organizational development specialists, this model for productivity improvement proceeds through six stages: awareness of needs, entry of specialist, data collection, problem identification, action planning, and implementation of solutions. Examples of specific activities for each stage are provided. (SK)

Describes the use of computer simulation, based on analysis of data collected from homemakers in the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program, to predict participant performance and project the cost effectiveness of alternatives. Discusses the usefulness of simulation as a management and instructional tool. (SK)

The University System of Georgia Computer Network serves 33 colleges and universities throughout the state. It provides low cost computing services to meet research, education and instructional needs of students, faculty and administrators. Computers used and the general administrative structure are noted. (SF)

Describes the management information system being developed to support the information and data management needs for two projects in developing a pharmaceutical curriculum. The system supports the old curriculum, since it is phased out and replaced by the new and can become more complex as required. (Author/JEG)

Examines pitfalls in analyzing school-level data, particularly expenditure data. Examples come from Ohio's experience with creating usable data structures for examining school-level information, aided by a statewide, complex, multipurpose Education Management Information System (EMIS). Since districts can choose different reporting software…

Describes school-level K-12 revenue and expenditure data collection in California, Texas, Florida, and Minnesota. Neither California nor Minnesota collects school-site fiscal data. Florida's highly advanced district and school-level data collection system has inconsistently reported standardized test scores. Texas has developed a good database to…

An implementation of the portfolio approach in screening the performance of educational programs is discussed. The approach supports an institutional management system that integrates management information systems, research, and evaluation efforts. Productivity and potential are used as broad dimensions for assessing program worth. (TJH)

Consistent differences are identified in the organizational environment and managerial activity of data processing organizations between the public and private sectors. A public organization's environment reflects greater interdependence and accountability, leading to more red tape. (Author)

Offers criteria for choosing software for child care centers that are based on meeting the centers' needs. The factors of hardware capabilities, ease of learning, cost, and vendor assistance are discussed. A guide to software lists available applications, addresses of companies, and prices of programs. (SH)

Advocates using an end-user approach to microcomputers in production/operations management. This approach requires the student to design and create spreadsheet models to solve problems, enhancing subject area knowledge, creativity, and problem-solving and computer skills. (SK)

Describes a Texas school district's attempt to determine highly effective and valid data for management decision-making and to increase managers' access to this data. Common sense and planning expertise helped immeasurably. (MLH)