The evolution of PRIME networking at the University of Arizona is described. A network of super minicomputers dedicated to administrative computing was established that accommodated online, interactive applications and that supported a variety of software packages to aid in the rapid development of systems. The first microcomputer, a PRIME 550, was obtained to support the undergraduate admissions system. Initially, the approach was to decentralize hardware systems by locating the computers in user areas or in close proximity. A purchasing vendor system was developed, followed by a personnel/payroll/budgeting system. A PRIME 750 was purchased by the student services department to support systems for student health, student housing, and financial aid development. Another PRIME 550 was purchased for alumni development and athletics. System overloading problems fell into three general categories: technical support, operations support, and proprietary rights. In lieu of having a large mainframe, minicomputer "building blocks" have been used to effect an affordable and sophisticated network that can handle numerous large online systems, while retaining the flexibility of adding additional systems and of sharing data in a planned manner. (SW)