Pepperdine University's decision support system provides: (1) user access to data through terminals; (2) the availability of retrieval modules and languages that allow the managers to structure ad hoc reports; (3) access to models through a national network; and (4) training, encouragement and consultation through coordinators. (Author/MLW)

The evolution of decision support systems (DSS) has enabled computer and information technology to assist the management process of decision making. Decision support systems are designed to look forward in time, to forecast outcomes of uncertain events. A 70-item bibliography is included. (MLW)

Pepperdine University's encouragement and support of microcomputers is described. A secondary organizational structure was incorporated that optimally supports microcomputers without increasing staff within information services. (Author/MLW)

Pepperdine University's encouragement and support of microcomputers is described. A secondary organizational structure was incorporated which optimally supports microcomputers without increasing staff within information services. (Author/MLW)

Typical higher management expectations for the planning process are explored, along with why these expectations cannot always be met. Some limitations to planning for computer services are proposed that can make planning meaningful for operational concerns. (MLW)

Five administrative user departments at San Francisco State University discovered that they had common requirements for office automation and data manipulation that could be addressed with microcomputers. The results of a local area network project are presented. (Author/MLW)

Some of the major problems facing higher education over the next decade and how microcomputer-based decision support systems can be used to address these as well as everyday administrative problems are discussed. Examples using electronic spreadsheets and database management systems are provided. (Author/MLW)

Some of the major problems facing higher education over the next decade and how microcomputer-based decision support systems can be used to address these as well as everyday administrative problems are discussed. Examples using electronic spreadsheets and database management systems are provided. (Author/MLW)

Positive management techniques yield great benefits in areas such as group effectiveness, problem solving, and staff commitment. Some qualities for a positive environment are defined. The management retreat process at the University of Alabama at Birmingham is described. (Author/MLW)

A pilot project at the Medical College of Wisconsin illustrates how even small computing organizations with limited financial and staff resources can provide remote access to CD-ROM (Compact Disc-Read-Only-Memory) databases, and that providing such convenient access to a vast array of useful information can greatly benefit faculty and students.…

Oakton Community College and its computing environment are described. Indicators of the need for coordination, assumptions that were examined and steps taken in the process of coordination, problems solved and problems identified, and conclusions drawn from their experience are discussed. (Author/MLW)

The decision support system (DSS) environment, the functional requirements of a DSS, and the architectural requirements of the computer systems and communications network necessary to support a DSS are discussed. Changes in the computing environment that are necessary to implement decision support systems are suggested. (Author/MLW)

Shortcomings of management information systems in managerial functions are often attributed to differences between "left brain" activities performed by machines and "right brain" activities performed in decision making. It is argued that academic management information systems should incorporate and recognize both kinds of activity. (MSE)

Data management challenges at the Pennsylvania State University are discussed, including providing user access to data, developing a classification system for data elements, eliminating the manual process for creating tailored user views, and developing data dictionary user enhancements. Solutions are provided to give insight into problem solving.…

The strategy used by St. Olaf College to integrate computing into a liberal arts curriculum is discussed. Faculty computer literacy was developed first, followed by the use of computing in a wide variety of courses. Computer science, problem analysis, symbol manipulation, and information processing are discussed. (Author/MLW)