Intended to provide assistance to non-technical end-users in evaluating the applicability of microcomputer-based systems to their needs and in choosing appropriate systems, this document recommends first identifying requirements and then identifying and evaluating alternative sources for application software, system software and hardware, and support. Each step in the sequence is examined in detail. Under technical considerations, issues addressed are: (1) the relationship of micro-based systems to central facilities; (2) the configuration of systems to facilitate the sharing of resources; (3) the acquisition of application software in a way that minimizes development and maintenance costs; (4) the "packaging" of the technology for non-technical users; and (5) the acquisition of systems in a way that eases migration into new technology. An appendix provides additional information on characteristics of microcomputer systems. (LMM)