Computers have become a regular fixture at most street departments. Seventy-two percent of those surveyed currently have a computer, with an additional 12% planning to purchase one in the future. Most of the computers are standalone PC computers, with 58% of departments using this inexpensive approach. Seventeen percent of the departments have developed networked systems with several PC computers connected together to share information. The remaining 25% operate as terminals on a larger city-wide mainframe system.

The key to the successful implementation of a computer system isn't merely the fact that the department has a computer, but rather "HOW" the computer is being used.

In this area, the survey clearly shows that the department's computer assets are usually underutilized.

The clear purpose of a computer system is to achieve information management goals; collecting data and then producing management reports that allow the department to manage more effectively. A properly designed system should not only improve management information, but should also streamline operations and automate mundane tasks that are best accomplished by computer.

How are street departments using their computer assets? Are their computers helping the department operate more efficienty and provide better management control?

The survey revealed that, while the departments have computer assets, most of the departments are not using these resources to reach maximum productivity and efficiency. An examination of the applications in use produced the following results: