The detailed study deals with the two basic types of computer-assisted placement mechanisms now operating as components of the United State Employment Service (USTES). Job banks receive job orders, organize, edit, and display; job-matching systems perform similar functions but in addition attempt to screen and match jobs and job applicants. The first section of the document focuses on a comparison of the characteristics, strengths and weaknesses, and current status of the two concepts. Activity and cost data for several job banks and job-matching systems are surveyed, with supporting data, with reference to placement speed, speed of placement by occupational groups, wage distribution of employment service placements, job bank and the unemployment rate, and cost analysis and cost comparisons. A detailed discussion of critical issues pertaining to computer-assisted placement as a component within the USTES is followed by a survey of the current state of the art, relating to technology, funding, the absence of an adequate descriptor system, psychological reactions to computerization, and problems relating to programing. The document concludes with a discussion of five recommendations. (SA)