a look at computer simulation, which belies a methodological distinction and is a relatively new approach to the study and further understanding of complex entities and situations. (Author)

Automated management information systems (MIS) process a great deal of data at a relatively low cost. Staff involvement is vital to the success of any MIS. Designers must consider how information moves in the organization and coordinate the system design with this movement. (JAC)

Reorganization of the information systems at Indiana University is chronicled and the role of computing services in linking all parts of the institution in support of both education and administration is discussed. Involvement of planning and policy groups in developing directions and initiatives is also outlined. (MSE)

Characteristics of colleges that may indicate the need for a chief information officer (CIO) are identified, along with factors that might lead to failure in taking this direction. An example of an institution that encountered problems when they hired a CIO is included. Factors leading to success are as follows: (1) a well-thought-out position on…

Louisiana State University applied a wholistic philosophy to its computer applications development. The new standards provide a step-by-step plan for the entire application process, from initiation to implementation and maintenance; list required deliverables instead of rules; and allow the programer and analyst flexibility to exercise technical…

This is one in a series of reports to the President and Congress developed by the President's Information Technology Advisory Committee (PITAC) on key contemporary issues in information technology. This report highlights findings and recommendations on how the government can provide leadership by solving key information technology challenges,…

Common challenges faced by colleges and universities in fulfilling information system needs are explained and discussed, including frequent and bothersome database and application program upgrades, bugs in the application programs, business systems lacking the required business capability, upgrades to software tools used to build the business…

The University of Miami (Florida) information resources department developed and instituted a program of "jump level leadership" in 1989 to open communication between all hierarchical levels. Results include free flow of ideas within the department, organizational changes, and happier, more effective employees. Successes, problems, and…

This paper discusses factors that may influence the acceptance of automated counseling procedures by the military. A consensual model of the change process is presented which structures organizational readiness, the change strategy, and acceptance as integrated variables to be considered in a successful installation. A basic introduction to the…

Based on research on management improvement efforts at developing colleges and universities, a model of evolutionary change in organizational structure and management practices is outlined, and change strategies considering both formal and informal management needs are proposed. The model assumes that management needs are intertwined with…

The strategies used by the administrator of the University of Melbourne's central registration office to meet the multiple challenges of retraining staff for computerization, substantial reduction in staff, and a specific directive to improve services to users are outlined and discussed. (MSE)

Computer networking technology is adequately developed now to support research and experimentation to expand computing resource sharing. Whether progress will be made depends upon organizational initiative among multiple institutions to pool personnel and capital so as to effectively address the major issues in management approach, support, and…

The advent of decision support systems, specific computer applications for organizational decision-making, redefines the primary professional role of institutional researchers, but a more comprehensive understanding of organizational behavior and development is necessary for them to work well. (MSE)

Current issues that are important for the future of information resources management in higher education are presented. They include: integrating planning for information resources within institution-wide strategic planning; reengineering fundamental services; change management; distributed computing support; networking; the changing communication…

Development of Arizona State University's computing architecture, designed to ensure that all new distributed computing pieces will work together, is described. Aspects discussed include the business rationale, the general architectural approach, characteristics and objectives of the architecture, specific services, and impact on the university…