This paper reports on a study of the implementation of a Computerised Information System (CIS) at the Ministry of Education in Botswana, and the use of CISs in secondary schools in Uganda. The findings portray the levels of use, the impact of CIS use, and the factors that influence the utilisation of the CISs in both countries. Although both countries have recognised the potential of CISs for managing educational institutions, the utilisation of these information systems were still at an early stage. Users' perceptions of the impact of CIS use were in general very positive. Factors critical for CIS use in Botswana were the quality of the information the CIS provided, and the amount of user training. In Uganda, the amount of CIS use was especially dependent on the extent of training, and the support from the information system administrator. Carefully designed user training courses are considered important in promoting wider and better CIS use. (Contains 2 figures and 9 tables.)