The objectives of this report are (1) to assess the potential usefulness of microcomputer technology as a tool for project management at Corps of Engineers construction field offices, and (2) to present methods of effectively transferring that technology to field agencies. This report offers an overview of the construction management activities and the expected field office workload for military construction and civil works construction projects. In addition, the report describes the capabilities offered by microcomputer systems and the technology to be considered in acquiring these systems. The expected costs and benefits of the computer hardware and software are explained. Finally, approaches for extending this technology to the field are analyzed. This report concludes that microcomputer systems make more efficient (1) updating network progress and pay, (2) analyzing contract modifications, and (3) handling general data. Microcomputer technology can be effectively transferred to the field by: (1) development of the system documentation required by Army Regulation 18-1; (2) coordination with Corps district and field offices; (3) allocation of funds and resources for extension to the field; (4) classification of the system as a class IV system; (5) selection of an assigned responsible agency to maintain the system; and (6) cooperation among agencies involved in development and operation of the system. (Author).

This guide is designed to help managers at U.S. Army Corps of Engineers construction field offices determine their needs for microcomputer support in their day-to-day operations, and select and procure appropriate systems. The information in this report supersedes that in the 1983 edition. The guide begins with an introductory tutorial on microcomputers intended to provide managers with the necessary information to make decisions about microcomputers, followed by a review of software packages and examples of their use. After a discussion of factors that influence the use of microcomputers in construction field offices, a step-by-step procedure is presented to assess the needs for automation at a specific office. Next, a method is described which will assist the field manager in determining the characteristics of an appropriately sized computer system to meet the needs of his/her field operation. Three general methods of procurement are described: competitive procurement using the Federal supply schedule, competitive procurement using performance specification, and sole-source procurement.