Computer-based information systems have evolved from emphasizing data processing to providing full and flexible support for management. They have moved from providing mere data to providing a medium for representing knowledge wherein managers can analyze data, formulate ideas, structure arguments, and building models. (Author/MLW)

Future impacts of microcomputing on political science are discussed. Scenarios dealing with networking, data access, field research, course management, and simulations and artificial intelligence are described. (RM)