Practical observations are offered in this report on health manpower information data and analyses to provide assistance to health planners in carrying out manpower activities more effectively. Problems and considerations discussed are as follows: Timeliness and accuracy of data, comparability of definitions and coverage, confidentiality problems, disaggregation of data, sample vs. universe surveys, employer/health care setting, no data for data's sake, and flexible approach. Also discussed are broad categories of data needed, and the following areas relating to determining current health manpower supply and requirements: Characteristics of population served; number, characteristics, and distribution of practitioners; allied health manpower; requirements standards; and health manpower education. Supply projections, requirements projections, assumptions for projections, and use of models are discussed in relation to determining future health manpower supply and requirements. A brief review of priorities for data collection concludes this report. (TA)