In a very short time, data processing has grown from virtually nothing to a position of great importance in the technical scientific system of civilization in the Federal Republic of Germany. Both the public and private sectors have contributed significantly to this expansion. Research and development have now reached large proportions. Thus there is a considerable requirement for skilled staff, i.e., data processing specialists with or without university or technical college training. Despite large computer facilities already in operation, there are no indications of a saturation of the market. Software needs are showing changed trends; growth in hardware cannot be halted. Small computers and medium data processing plants are forging ahead, but a micro processor market is still in its infancy. In the area of personal protection from data abuse, the Federal Data Law was passed in 1977. Achievement by data processing research, technology, and industry in the Federal Republic of Germany has gained recognition from the rest of the world. (VT)