The operation of computerized management information systems (MISs) for adult basic education in 27 states and 21 local programs was the focus of a research study. During 1991 and 1992, state adult education directors and MIS specialists were interviewed by telephone regarding MIS organization and content; local personnel were interviewed regarding data collection and use. Findings indicated that data were collected by local programs and maintained on computers, then transferred to states by modem or floppy disk. States maintained data in an aggregated format or in individual student records. Data collection by state MISs was strongly influenced by federal requirements. In 11 of 19 MISs that maintained individual student record data, there was an effort to share data or collaborate on data collection with other programs. Data collection by local providers was dictated by state and federal reporting requirements. Local program directors or the teachers themselves inspected printouts to check data accuracy. Each state provided workshops on data entry and computer program maintenance. Implementation was hindered by limited computer literacy, too short a timetable, insufficient funding to hire data entry staff, and inflexible software. Benefits of MISs to local programs were more accurate information and quick information generation. (Appendixes to the 22-page report include a comparison of computerized MISs, a chart of state MISs, and state survey reports.) (YLB)