The pattern of making use of the data processing (DP) technology in Latin America is divided into four phases; (1) a first phase where a whole generation of machines is practically ignored, (2) a second stage where only small units were employed, (3) a "status quo" where reasonably full use of the available systems is being reached for and (4) a future, more positive, stage when Latin America will actually produce a significant volume of original contributions to the DP industry. Most of the Computer Science curricula currently proliferating in Latin American universities were developed by computer industry professionals, and rely heavily on them for the teaching involved. The use of DP technology in Latin America has progressed to the point that the time-lag between the development of a new methodology abroad and its application in Latin America has been reduced: such management tools as critical-path codes, simulation programmes, information systems, etc., are now being used as soon as they become available. (NH)