This discussion of microcomputer selection for schools presents three hypothetical plans--ranging from $500 to $15,000--for establishing an educational computing program and examines the best way to budget the money. Purchasing information on a variety of microcomputers is included. (JJD)

Examination of the emergence of microcomputer word processing in the library environment highlights library applications, hardware considerations, evaluations of four word processing programs (Apple Writer II, Screen Writer II, Magic Wand, WordStar), and "nonperformance" factors that influence selection of word processing package. Ten…

In order to process data in a computer, application software must be either developed or purchased. Costs for modifications of the software package and maintenance are often hidden. The decision to buy or develop software packages should be based upon factors of time and maintenance. (MLF)

Discusses a "Bringing Economy and Efficiency into Purchasing" (BEEP) project in the Onteora Central School District, Boiceville (New York). The project determined that the employment of a part-time purchasing agent was economically justified for an average-sized semirural school district. (Author/MLF)

Suggests specific ways for school districts to control rapidly rising transportation costs and assure many years of quality service. (Author/MLF)

Suggests 12 ways that band, orchestra, and chorus directors can stretch tight budgets through careful purchase and administration of instruments, music, and supplies. (SJL)

Lack of space became a problem when the university bookstore moved into its new quarters; more space was needed to meet the demand for clothing and secretarial supplies. A student record store was purchased and electronic gear including stereos, tape recorders, electronic calculators, etc., were added to the inventory. (MLW)

The Regional College Store Associations have been developing Master Textbook Lists, a program that compiles, at a central location, a master list of titles used at each store's school. Two benefits are: (1) needed books can be rushed from one store to another, and (2) reductions occur in inventory of nonreturnable books. (MLW)

The use of a master textbook list developed by the Southern California Association of College Stores (CACS) is described. The three-part program is explained and the information assimilation process, format for revising lists, procedures for implementation, and general guidelines are among areas covered. (PHR)

A guideline to aid business officials who are contemplating or engaged in computerization. (Author)

Personal income is a key factor affecting not only the amount American families spend for food but also the types of food they buy. This article presents results from an analysis of U.S. Department of Agriculture's 1987-88 Nationwide Food Consumption Survey, the latest data available on household food consumption for the entire population and for…

Details ten areas of mistakes child care centers make in purchasing supplies and equipment from early childhood catalogs: (1) seller reliability; (2) shipping costs; (3) product quality; (4) outdated catalog; (5) bulk discounts; (6) incomplete order forms; (7) duplicate orders; (8) availability; (9) checking order; and (10) protecting good credit.…

Provides product information and resources from more than 1,200 companies for educational facility purchasing needs. It includes a directory of suppliers and products/services, a National School Supply and Equipment Association section, tips on reducing purchasing processing costs and writing better purchasing specifications, an index of past…

Three educational institutions had markedly different furniture needs--home-style furniture for college student residences, high-density storage for high school science labs, and computer lab furniture for a K-12 school district. However, all used a systematic approach to purchasing that involved users, knowledgeable colleagues, and technical…

In education, competition and devolution are two dominant forces driving schools to become leaner, faster, smarter, and more viable institutions. This article presents 98 ideas for helping administrators raise funds and reap cost savings on employee salaries, facilities, financial management, food service, maintenance, purchasing, scheduling,…