Examines options for buying microcomputers (the manufacturer or his/her representative, computer stores, general retail stores, mail order, system integrators, traditional vendors, second-hand). Three major factors are considered: support before sale; price/cost; and support after sale. Advantages and disadvantages of each option and…

Before purchasing word processing equipment, school business officials should develop a study team to assess current and future needs. Communication with personnel involved is essential for the acceptance of both the study and the word processing equipment. (Author/MLF)

Presents product characteristics, costs, and a personal evaluation of Radio Shack's three new personal computers: the TRS-80 Model III; the TRS-80 Color Computer; and the TRS-80 Pocket Computer. (SJL)

This case study of a used car purchase illuminates the concepts and principles that should guide purchase decisions. It suggests that consumers should be aware there is little correlation between price and quality; competent shopping yields better quality; and consumers must decide their preferred trade-off between price and quality. (SK)

Describes the pros and cons of three broad categories of hard flooring: terrazzo, architectural finishes, and resilient flooring. Includes a sidebar on floor maintenance. (EV)

Discusses factors for schools to consider when deciding on a lighting system: purchase price, installation charges, maintenance costs, energy costs, and ensuring optimal educational environment. Presents best practices in these areas. (EV)

Details features of washer-extractors and dryers and important considerations when making purchasing decisions. Explores the core decision of soft-mount versus hard-mount machines. (EV)

Results of a study of 373 grocery shoppers indicate that consumers do, in fact, realize real benefits from coupon use. Use of coupons offers additional benefits to the consumer such as enjoyment of the activity, sense of control in determining the outcome of market transactions, and success in individual role fulfillment. (JOW)

Presents advice from interior designers on purchasing, arranging, and maintaining lounge furniture on educational facilities. (GR)

Discusses the selection process for weight-training machines that are user-friendly and provide the best fit for the training facility. Machine factors to consider include ease of maintenance, adjustability, ease of use, its biomechanics, structural strength, the upholstery and finish used, and its safety. (GR)

How to best decide when it's time to replace your PC, whether at home or at work, is always tricky. Spending on computers can make you more productive, but it's money you otherwise cannot spend, invest or save, and faster systems always await you in the future. What is clear is that the computer industry really wants you to buy, and the computer…

This report describes statistical indicators developed by the Council of the Great City Schools and its member districts to measure big-city school performance on a range of operational functions in business, finance, human resources and technology. The report also presents data city-by-city on those indicators. This is the second time that…

In the early days of computer technology, few, if any, school districts had chief information officers (CIOs). Information Technology (IT) was handled by computer or technology coordinators, many of whom were classroom teachers with passing interests in computers and associated high-tech gadgets and gizmos. As districts began embracing CIOs, the…

No one can doubt nowadays that ethics in business is an important issue. Recent corporate scandals involving corporations such as Enron, WorldCom, and Freddie Mac, to name just a few, have exposed highly questionable business practices and criminal behavior. In this paper, the author would like to distinguish between illegal practices and legal,…

Background: Across the nation, schools have become actively involved in developing obesity prevention strategies both in classrooms and in cafeterias. We sought to determine the type of foods being offered during lunch in the cafeteria of 3 public high schools in 1 county and if this reflects the purchasing patterns of students. By labeling foods…