This report by the Computer Utilization Group which was set up in 1960 by the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) consists of two parts: 1) a brief statement of conclusions, recommendations and suggestions for research by the data bank panel and a list of the panel members and 2) the background report prepared by Klaus Lenk, Consultant to OECD which makes up the majority of the report. Mr. Lenk discusses the present state of automation in government and explores the concepts of data banks and public administration. He analyzes some models of automation in public administration and summarizes recent developments in Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and Germany. The organizational and economic conditions which facilitate success are also explored. A final section outlines some possible impacts of advanced automation on the structure and functions of public administration such as centralization and decentralization, power shifts, the quality of service and social consequences. (JG)