The objective of the study was to evaluate (1) the needs and resources available to local school districts in data processing; (2) the needs and resources available for regional data processing centers; and (3) the types of services, including programing packages, that would be offered by the regional data processing centers. The study analyzed data functions currently used or planned by the districts and processing needs relative to the size of the district. Data for the study were obtained from a survey of about 100 local school districts and from discussions with local district and State education personnel. Major conclusions are as follows: (1) districts with less than 1,500 students require no data processing services, (2) initially, the experimental regional data processing center should be under local control, and (3) county cnters should be selected as regional sites. A model is proposed for the establishment of regional data processing centers with recommended boundaries. In addition, recommendations are made concerning organization, staffing, and operation of the centers. Related documents are EA 002 689, EA 002 869, and EA 002 870. (Author)