This document provides an introduction to applications computer software packages that support functional managers in government and encourages the use of such packages as an alternative to in-house development. A review of current application areas includes budget/project management, financial management/accounting, payroll, personnel, supply/logistics/inventory control, library/reference, office automation/word processing, and mathematical/statistical. Topics addressed include the reasons for considering software purchase and the benefits such packages can provide. Guidance is offered on assessing whether an organization is ready to purchase a software package and on locating and using information sources, including periodicals, directories, reference services, trade newspapers, vendor literature, and organizations. An annotated list describes 40 periodicals, and a reference matrix identifies reference sources and categorizes the types of information they provide. Seven references are listed. (LMM)