One of a series of papers resulting from a Fund for the Improvement of Postsecondary Education (FIPSE) project, this working paper describes how a state agency data system can be used and supplemented to produce the kinds of data that are needed for effective community college planning and evaluation. First, general information is presented on efforts to design, develop, and add a planning and evaluation component to the existing California State Chancellor's Information System. This section provides information on the current system and three specific information sets to be produced (i.e., quantitiative, qualitative, and external). Next, six areas in which the FIPSE project is working to create analytical models are discussed: (1) learner outcomes, including proposals to add partial longitudinal capability to the existing student data file and the use of cross-section community surveys assessing the value of community college education; (2) comparative data for college evaluation and accreditation; (3) projected needs and programs; (4) statewide priorities for community college operations against which evaluations and planning can be conducted; (5) census data application to the evaluation of statewide priorities, comparative analyses by colleges, and projections of student demand; and (6) other data sources, such as the Statewide Longitudinal Survey, the Student Resources Surveys, and the Student Economics and Resources Survey. An information system plan proposed to the Board of Governors of the California Community Colleges is appended. (HB)