This paper deals with systems concepts, particularly those related to management information systems (MIS) as exemplified by the Center for the Study of Evaluation (CSE) Formative Evaluation Kit. The concept of MIS is in numerous ways more flexible than might be imagined from a cursory reading of the business-management literature. An MIS does not have to be an expensive, computerized system. An economical, manual MIS can be created to meet the needs of a single school. The CSE Formative Evaluation Kit operates as an MIS to provide a principal with information on a new program. Heavy emphasis is given to planning activities that relate directly to analysis of program performance and decisionmaking. The CSE kit users are directed to plan evaluation activities every time major program components are changed. Pilot-test and field-test results suggest that the kit is useful with a variety of programs. The kit has the capability of making important planning activities a formal process. (Author)