In a home-based institution like the Open University of Great Britain where enrollment is open and participation patterns are erratic, maintaining up-to-date, accurate records of students is imperative. A systematized data base is required for the administration of admissions, fee collection, materials distribution, monitoring and marking of assignments, grading, and policy planning. Since data collection at the Open University began before the potential uses of the data were established, the system has in some instances been unable to provide needed information, but the system is being updated and modified to insure easy access to more complete information. The possible uses of demographic and academic records are discussed in detail. (EMH)