User perception of data importance and the economic feasibility of hardware and storage devices will determine the future direction of online systems. A retrieval system's functions are ultimately dictated by database design. Early online sytems were designed for bibliographic information limited to citations only using sequential files. When…

The use of a data base management system (DBMS) as opposed to traditional data processing is discussed. The generalized file concept is viewed as an entry level step to the DBMS. The transition process from one system to the other is detailed. (SF)

This report, the result of developmental research on a planning information system for North Carolina, describes the planning process at higher levels of State government, defines a general information system and derives a planning information system from various types of planning, provides guidelines for system design and evaluation, and…

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)

University management has many and varied needs for effective computer services in support of their processing and information functions. The challenge for the computer center managers is to better understand these needs and assist in the development of effective and timely solutions. Management needs can range from accounting and payroll to…

The many and varied demands on university computer services are discussed and the importance of an effective data processing system for university management is emphasized. Case studies of computer use in admissions, registration, and billing are presented as well as the role of top level management in implementing data processing. (BH)

The feasibility of replacing existing central processing units with a single computer facility is discussed. An analysis of the computing facilities for the Iowa state universities is presented and supports the retention of decentralized facilities. Efficiency, costs, and operating considerations are examined. (SF)

Management information systems are explained and their use by small colleges is discussed. The Columbus Technical Institute Management Information System is described as a first step in providing data processing for higher education. (BH)

The testimony of Robert G. Gillespie before the House Subcommittee on Science, Research and Technology is presented concerning a bill to establish a national commission to study the scientific and technological implications of information technology in education. (SF)

The development of a computer-based administrative system at the University of Albany--The Dictionary/Directory Facility-- is described. This system is viewed as a dynamic one that can function in an environment characterized by change. (SF)

The needs and problems of the small college or university management information system are discussed through the experiences of a small midwestern university. It is suggested that technological advancements in software and minicomputers will improve the systems development capabilities of small institutions. (Author/BH)

The importance of cooperative development among and exchange between university information systems is discussed. Cooperative developments in the California State University and Colleges System and exchange efforts between university systems in other states are described. (Author/BH)

The impact of technical advances in computer hardware is examined. Size, cost, ease of use, expandability, and availability are discussed to help assess the impact of these advances on information systems. It is suggested that technology is making administrative computing economical and feasible. (Author/SF)

The three computer service facilities at Ohio State University in Columbus are described. Computer services are provided for: instructional purposes, public service activities, university management, the hospital information system, and student services. (BH)

The planning, design, and implementation of an information system at Pepperdine University in California is described. The difficulties of total redesign and new programing of a management information system are explained and recommendations for this process are made. (BH)