Based in part on a list developed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) for use in Afghanistan, this document presents a comprehensive checklist of items of statistical and descriptive data required for planning a national communication system. It is noted that such a system provides the vital information component for the mobilization and utilization of matter and energy in the process of development, and that the system includes postal services; telecommunications; radio; television; satellite services; computer telecommunications links and online databases; libraries and documentation centers; the press; books and other publications; records, cassettes, and videotapes; films and movies; other audiovisuals; popular culture events; organized interpersonal communication; meteorological communication; commercial and trade communication; advertising; and administrative and security communication services. The checklist of information items required for national communication planning is divided into six areas covering societal values, goals, objectives, and institutions; societal context; international context; communication institutional structure; communication technology, resources, and services; and communications future. A statement concerned with the relevance of each of these planning aspects and a discussion of appropriate sources of the required information are provided. Also provided is introductory material on the general planning framework and the social, economic, technological, and international considerations realted to national communication planning. (ESR)