An educational management information system is a network of communication channels, information sources, computer storage and retrieval devices, and processing routines that provide data to educational managers at different levels, places, and times to facilitate decisionmaking. Management information systems should be differentiated from computer-aided instructional systems because the former emphasize the financial and business aspects of education. The application of MIS tools to education is similar to their applications in industry. The educator has any number of options in hardware and software computer technology open to him. Of the six management functions -- needs assessment, resource management, logistics, planning, operational control, and evaluation -- most assistance is available in resource management and operational control. Educational management information systems provide growing opportunities for increasing educational flexibility. Related articles are EA 003 517, EA 003 518, EA 003 519, EA 003 520, and ED 044 833. (RA)