Microcomputers provide an inexpensive, powerful, and user-friendly means for police administrators to perform computer-aided operations at their own desks. Word processing facilitates the preparation of communications texts, and electronic mail provides for communications that have the advantages of mail and telephone. Electronic conferencing permits back-and-forth communication for extended periods, with a written record. Microcomputers provide access to external data bases and facilitate independent storage, retrieval, and report preparation. Microcomputers can produce charts and graphs, organized time-related activities, construct spreadsheets, supply information to support decisions, and provide advice on complex problems. Other uses of microcomputers are grant tracking, performance evaluation, training, and vehicle maintenance. As microcomputing matures it will evolve through the stages of performing individual agency operations, networking with other computer systems, and integration involving a fully automated work station. 2 footnotes.