This volume is the first of five volumes describing a systematic approach for constructing task inventories, surveying the task performance of occupations, and analyzing survey data to determine the appropriate performance content for job training. (The approach, referred to as the task survey process, is designed to be of value to both occupational curriculum personnel and those persons concerned with noncurriculum issues of occupational description and updating of job content information.) This introductory volume is intended for agency and institutional management personnel. It provides an overview of the task survey and selection system, its rationale, and tested effectiveness. Four major sections are included: Introductory Overview of the Curriculum Content Derivation System; Background and Rationale (curriculum--product or process, present focus on curriculum planning, and systematic processes for identifying curriculum content); Expanded Overview of the Task Survey Process; and Putting the Process into Action: Implementation Considerations. A glossary and references are appended. (SH)