Two of the most successful regional educational data processing centers in Iowa are analyzed to provide information for future efforts to develop educational information systems. Objectives of the system and its scope of operation are determined. Then hardware/software necessary to achieve these goals is specified, along with an estimated budget for purchase and upkeep. The educational requirements and job responsibilities of the staff members are outlined. Some of the possible applications for the system are listed and the need for disseminating such information to clients is pointed out. Although clients may need some individual attention to specific problems, it is recommended that all participating schools should run on one set of programs. Evaluation--either general, structural, operational, and/or financial--should be made periodically or for a specific purpose. A basic glossary to data processing terms is included. The appendix contains samples of forms used by the two successful centers. (JY)