This report describes the technologies of programmable automation (PA) in manufacturing, their uses, and future capabilities. Following the summary and introduction, the prospects for PA are examined from several perspectives. Chapter 3 defines PA technologies, describes their developmental trends, and evaluates the potential for the integration of PA equipment into highly-automated systems. Chapter 4 examines the prospects for employment change, including the ways in which PA may influence job design and the number and mix of jobs among firms and industries. Chapter 5 describes effects on the manufacturing work environment arising from the use of PA and discusses ways in which workers are likely to be affected--physically and psychologically. Chapter 6 illuminates emerging needs for education, training, and retraining and discusses current efforts to meet those needs. Chapter 7 discusses the structure and competitive conduct of industries supplying PA goods and services. Chapter 8 describes the roles of public and private institutions conducting PA research and development. Chapter 9 enumerates effects of governments in other countries to stimulate the production and use of PA. Chapter 10 provides alternatives for Congressional action. Summaries of five case studies and an index are appended. (YLB)