Three guiding principles should be followed in formulating policies for computerization in criminal justice: (1) top management needs to be directly involved in automation efforts; (2) the task of computerization should be tackled from the top down; and (3) automation should be handled in small, carefully planned, managed steps. Main problems associated with the computerization of criminal justice involve the difficulties inherent in managing the criminal justice system. Nonetheless, computers can assist in the detection of crime, provide better and more accurate information to help judges make better decisions, store information accurately, reduce the chance of wrongful arrest or conviction, and assist in convicting the guilty. More benefits of computerization can be attained through careful planning than through the purchase of innovative or expensive computer equipment. The most effective approach to computerization appears to be to apply automation in relatively modest steps, serving one or two criminal justice agencies at a time. Stages involved in planning an implementing computer systems are outlined, and factors to consider in selecting a computer system for a particular jurisdiction are listed.