The book presents a glossary of CAT technology terms followed by a question and answer section that covers the usefulness and disadvantages of CAT systems. It briefly covers CATs history and basic functioning, the variety of CAT systems, and individual writing styles and CAT. A self-test assesses whether a reporter is skilled enough to use CAT systems. The manual also contains a method for estimating system costs and break-even points, as well as suggestions for choosing vendors. The manual urges careful research on the cost-effectiveness and feasibility of a CAT system for the particular work situation before buying. The prospective buyer should discuss CAT with reporters who already have systems, talk to staff reporters about their willingness to adapt to such a system, and learn about CAT technology by reading literature and attending seminars. A careful cost assessment should weigh the advantages of the increased volume of high quality transcript produced by the CAT system against the costs of system installation and maintenance. A vigorous needs assessment should determine how much a reporting firm or agency can afford to invest. The final step before puchase is to obtain information from the vendors and from other sources. Extensive profiles of major CAT vendors, current as of November 1981, cover vendor product offerings, vendor philosophies, and vendor availability information. Responses to a survey of CAT system users conducted by Baron Data Systems are provided, and an annotated list of materials pertinent to CAT systems are supplied.