The Austin, Texas,Independent School District's Department of Management Information has developed a set of guidelines for responding to requests for information about the schools, as well as requests for research subjects. Procedures for handling external requests have been grouped into five categories. (1) Research: applications must be approved by district research and evaluation staff before proceeding to the school principal. Applicants are encouraged to use annual achievement testing data rather than administering more tests, involve entire classes rather than removing individuals or groups, and select relevant topics. (2) Surveys from extant records: these are handled by the Information Services Committee. When appropriate, data are rearranged into the requested format. (3) University requirements, observation, and practice in administering tests: observation time must be requested and approved. Usually, applicants are encouraged to perform testing elsewhere. (4) School or class self-studies: teachers and principals are provided assistance by district staff. (5) Real estate selection: current data is not conveniently formatted for parents who want to live where their children will be bussed to the best public school. However, the District plans to publish a statistical profile report. (Appendices include the application for research study and classroom observation request). (GDC)