Describes a recent study conducted in seven data-processing departments within five different companies that addressed the desirability of maintaining some of the more significant human resources information. Survey results indicated that past assignments and job experience with the company, training sessions attended, and projected training…

The benefits of prototyping as a basis for system design include better specifications, earlier discovery of omissions and extensions, and the likelihood of salvaging much of the effort expended on the prototype. Risks and methods of prototyping during rapid systems development are also noted. (Author/MLW)

Discusses the general characteristics of database management systems and file systems. Also gives a basic framework for evaluating such software and suggests characteristics that should be considered when buying software for specific scientific applications. A list of vendor addresses for popular database management systems is included. (JN)

Discusses the development of literary and linguistic computing from the compilation by Roberto Busa of an index and concordance of St. Thomas Aquinas, through the inauguration of the Association for Literary and Linguistic Computing in the 1970s, to the recent formation of the Association for Computers in the Humanities. (SED)

Much of the power of the "information center" comes from its ability to effectively use fourth-generation productivity tools to provide information processing services. A case study of the use of these tools at Western Michigan University is presented. (Author/MLW)

The evolution of administrative data processing systems at the University of Georgia is summarized. Nolan's revised stage model was used as a framework to present the university's experience and relate it to the growing body of system implementation research. (Author/MLW)

Six steps in creating a master plan for the institutional computing system include: describing a mission for computing technology, establishing program objectives, matching the technology to the objectives, prioritizing alternative approaches, developing alternative approaches, and selecting the preferred approach. (MSE)

Describes "optimization" computer programing to aid in school redistricting. Using diverse demographic data, the computer plots district boundaries to minimize children's walking distance and maximize safety, improve racial balance, and keep enrollment within school capacity. (TE)

Describes the data bases and programs of numerous on-line retrieval systems for chemical information, including mass spectra, NMR, x-ray, and substructure data. (MLH)

Expanded version of a paper presented to the section on Computer Research in Language and Literature of the Midwest Modern Language Association, October 24, 1969. Article is part of Lexicography and Dialect Geography, Festgabe for Hans Kurath''. (DD)

On-line circulation systems divide into two types. One type contains records only for charged or otherwise absent items. The other contains a file of records for all titles or volumes in the library collection, regardless of their circulation status. This paper traces differences between the two types. (31 references) (Author)

Article describes how badge input and data collection terminals raise productivity and support new library services at the University of Maryland. (HB)

With MSRTS, a computerized record transfer system, continuity is at last being brought to the schooling of our most mobile students. (Editor)

A small Toronto school found a ready solution to the task of manual scheduling through the use of a computer service utlity. (Author/JN)

Included in this feature section are selected articles on various aspects of the business education program. (AG)