Background material on the American Association of University Professors' (AAUP's) annual survey of faculty salary data is summarized. It is pointed out that in 1976, AAUP decided to depend on the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) for data collection because both organizations had worked closely for many years, it eliminated duplication of the data collection effort, and it increased the size of the AAUP sample. The mechanics of the survey are described. The procedures traditionally used by AAUP, namely, reviewing, screening, and revising data when necessary, are not modified. The major fringe benefits included in the survey are: (1) social security; (2) retirement; (3) medical insurance, life insurance, guaranteed disability income protection, unemployment compensation, and workman's compensation; (4) tuition for faculty children; (5) housing benefits; and (6) other benefits. The AAUP catagories are defined and the format of the appendices of the AAUP annual report is described. (SPG)