The Objective-Based Assessment, Planning, and Resource Allocation System (OAPRAS) that was developed and implemented at Middlesex County College is described. The integrated self-assessment planning and budgeting system was developed in 1981. The central purpose of OAPRAS was to link resource allocation decisions to the prioritized objectives that in turn were based on institutional mission and goals, assessment of external environment affecting college operations, and assessment of the effectiveness of internal operations. The utilization of the following approaches by OAPRAS is discussed: rational and integrated management; planning, programming, and budgeting system; management by objectives; and zero-based budgeting. Attention is also directed to problems that were encountered with the new system: the need to revise departmental objectives; difficulties in proposing planning objectives and new activities (e.g., estimating personnel hours needed for noninstructional activities); and the need to reduce the budgets. Changes in the planning and budgeting system are proposed that would help staff develop clear and appropriate objectives, clarify responsibility for coordinating followup action on planning goals, and improve planning documents and forms. (SW)