Organizations systematically gather more information than they use, yet continue to ask for more. This may be partially explained by the fact that the use of information is embedded in social norms that make it highly symbolic. Implications of such a pattern of information use are discussed. (Author/WD)

Computer expert Douglas Gale gives school personnel advice on obtaining small computers, with emphasis on cost effectiveness and maintenance considerations. (SJL)

By keeping records, facts can be presented to the public accurately. Examples are given regarding custodian training, stressing the importance of job descriptions, work schedules, and documented training procedures. (Author/MLF)

To justify their programs, trainers should plan follow-up surveys of trainees and their supervisors which answer the questions, (1) How accurately did the training address the exact job requirements? (2) How successfully are trainees performing tasks learned? and (3) What unintended consequences have occurred? (SK)

The annual cost of repair to a Wood County (West Virginia) typical bus (called "Number 87") mounts in ever-steeper steps. The usage-and-repair study underscores the disparity between legislative educational planning nearly a decade ago and the facts of school life today. (Author/MLF)

Over 53 percent of 159 NASA-Small Business Administration clients and industrial clients, surveyed for dollar costs and benefits of online computerized literature searches, identified dollar benefits. A direct ratio between benefits derived and client dollars invested, averaging 2.9 to 1, was demonstrated. Data tables are presented. (Author/JD)

Examines complexities involved in assessing the utility of political gaming in the analysis of foreign affairs, and reports an assessment of a political game conducted at the CIA to demonstrate assessment difficulties due to inherent uncertainties in both foreign affairs analysis and the gaming process. (CMV)

Presents the results of a study to identify and assess the general characteristics of state documents and the specific characteristics of individual document selection sources as they affect patterns of acquisition. (FM)

A study on the use and effectiveness of marketing in postsecondary admissions is discussed. The study shows that only 8 of 16 marketing techniques were used by more than half of the respondents. The broader scheme of marketing is seen as not having been put to use fully by admissions officers. (MLW)

Steps taken to alleviate financial problems in Los Angeles county created by Proposition 13 are described. (JD)

School districts can effect considerable savings by obtaining maximum banking services. A procedure is offered for choosing a bank depository based on services to be rendered. (Author/MLF)

A study was undertaken to gather precise data regarding the expenses incurred in the preparation of proposals submitted within a specified time period by an academic unit within an institution of higher education and to compare those costs to the success (funding) of the proposals. The results indicate a return to the institution of over ten times…

Highlights from a study that assesses the potential for energy cost savings in Ohio schools through computerized energy management. (Author/MLF)

Suggests that a less rigid traditional approach towards automating acquisitions functions might be more cost effective. Thorough investigation of available alternatives should precede a decision to adopt or maintain a local system. (Author/RAA)

Discussion of the development of a budget formula allocation system for library acquisitions is followed by a literature survey on the choice of variables to be included. The steps in the development of the allocation formula and the solutions to a number of practical problems are presented. (Author/RAA)