Some basic conceptual tools, knowledge, and experience that help evaluate needs for a management support system (MSS) to meet the planning and management challenges in academe are presented. An MSS must integrate the planning, control, forecasting, modeling, reporting, computing, and data administration functions of the system. (MLW)

A sociotechnical systems model used by John Brown University is described that is useful for analyzing the complexities of change in an organization and for describing the many elements involved in change. (Author/MLW)

The computer system at Swarthmore College, used for both academic and administrative purposes, is described. The college's computing history, equipment, budgeting, a unique cable communication systems, and administrative uses of computing are noted. (MSE)

Developed by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, TPL is a flexible natural language computer package that can be used to simplify the preparation of tables of data for annual library reports. Data on interlibrary loan transactions are used to construct sample tables illustrating program features. Two references are listed. (RAA)

Discusses developments in computer education at the elementary secondary level in Tasmania, South Australia, and West Australia. Six references are listed. (LLS)

In February 1980, Rush-Presbyterian-St. Lukes Medical Center in Chicago appointed a task force to study word processing/office automation and to make recommendations for acquisition, implementation, and administration. The group's working approach, findings, and conclusions are discussed. (Author/MLW)

Construction of a separate data base for university planning information is proposed. Characteristics of a planning system and its relationship to other university systems are discussed as well as the need for data bases that contain both quantitative and nonquantitative information. (BH)

The College of Medicine at the University of Kentucky has designed and implemented a student personnel information system that facilitates storage and retrieval of data concerning admissions candidates, student records and scheduling, and alumni. The system was designed to be run in-house by the clerical staff. (Author/MLW)

It is suggested that the director of personnel should be making maximum use of available computer services. Four concerns of personnel directors are cited: number of government reports required, privacy and security, cost of space for personnel records and files, and the additional decision-making tools required for collective bargaining…

The experience of Indiana University in managing information resources--computing, word processing, telephone services, mail services, microfilming, and duplicating services--in a more integrated fashion is described and strategies to overcome tradition, the fiefdom syndrome, and institutional inertia are detailed. (Author/MSE)

For nearly a decade and a half, the California State University and Colleges has operated a distributed processing computing network with interconnected computer installations on all campuses. A new technologically advanced network that will deliver top-quality computing to students, faculty members, and administrators is described. (MLW)

The organizational arrangements of the Associated Colleges of Central Kansas, a consortium chartered as a corporation to provide cooperative computing facilities, are described. Hardware systems, administrative system development, and financing are examined. (SF)

A new machine records system designed for the McMaster University's Office of the Registrar is described. The new system uses data received from the Ontario Universities' Application Centre, as well as data received directly from applicants. Effective use of the computer allows staff more time for counseling and providing information. (MLW)

Outlines the steps involved in the development of a CD-ROM product. Areas discussed include user requirements definition, delivery systems definition, database design, application design and development, data capture, data conversion program design and development, data conversion and enhancement, data indexing, system integration and evaluation,…

Describes hypertext as software that improves the learner's control over a knowledge base, and discusses the role hypertext could play in compact disc technologies. Digital multimedia learning materials are discussed; relationships among data, information, knowledge, and expertise are explored; and examples of applications of compact disc media…