Seven factors that currently affect the potential for marketing and publishing computer software for education are discussed: (1) computers as an inplace technology in education, (2) marketing and distribution patterns for software, (3) consumer demand, (4) quality, (5) timelessenss, (6) basic skills, and (7) the future. The proliferation of computers in the schools creates a growing computer base to utilize whatever software is produced. As the industry learns how to effectively market and distribute software, the distribution of software products will be as widespread and well used as the distribution of print or audiovisual products. Consumer demand for software is affected by three constituents: the software publisher/producer/distributor, the purchaser, and the user. School acquisition practices are influencing consumer demand, since publishers seek areas that they can adapt software to match nonsoftware products they currently produce and distribute. Consumer demand for software ultimately will influence software development greatly. It is important to remember that quality software sells, and software that will retain its educational usefulness and relevancy over long periods will be needed by schools. In addition, software/courseware that helps students achieve minimum competency standards--the basic skills--will be attractive. Computer technology in education will force changes in the delivery and methods by which teaching and education are practiced. (SEW)