This publication provides guidance for the introduction of computer software tools within agencies of the United States government or within other installations where there has been little or no prior use of software tools. From a survey of current tool usage, it is concluded that the greatest obstacles to effective use of software tools are encountered in organizations employing fewer than 40 programmers, and the needs of these environments are therefore emphasized. Specific needs for software tools in programming for management information systems (MIS) and for scientific applications are discussed. Measures are described to overcome organizational obstacles to use of tools, to deal with problems arising from the tools, and to reduce the difficulties posed by existing computer installations. Also described are the responsibilities of software management, software engineers, and toolsmiths (who make minor modifications to tools and the computer environment as necessary). Steps required for the successful introduction of tools are then presented, organized both by the function responsible for their accomplishment, and the time schedule in which they must be completed. Work to be performed in each step is described in detail. A list of 14 references and the agenda and attendance list from a related workshop conclude the publication. (Author/ESR)