Developing a Microcomputer‐Based Management Information System Available to Purchase

How management information is an essential requirement for assessing the performance of library services and how a management information system (MIS) fits into the overall framework of management in an organisation is described. Stages in the design of an integrated MIS are discussed in turn, including an analysis of organisational information needs at the senior, middle and operational management levels. An appendix lists the type of questions which could be used in structured interviews in the investigative phase of the system design. Performance measures and indicators are described with reference to the performance review process favoured by the Audit Commission for public libraries. Software and hardware for a typical system are described,including estimated costs.