This report presents results of a study of five state and local computer-based special education management information systems (MISs). Descriptions are provided of the five MISs used for reporting and decision-making in special education, the planning and implementation processes used by the states and districts, and the general benefits that have been observed. A cross-site comparative analysis considers benefits in the areas of state education agency (SEA) desk audits, more accurate reporting, ad hoc reporting, special reports to local education agencies (LEAs), and individual education planning. The following planning and implementation variables are also compared for the five states: state financial incentives; state priority/mandate for MIS; SEA involvement of stakeholders in MIS planning, design, and implementation; involvement of special education and MIS specialists in joint design and pilot testing of the systems; and LEA implementation variables, including quality control over data entry. Steps that must be undertaken by state education agency officials for successful MIS implementation are outlined, and implications for state and local policymakers are addressed in depth using a question-and-answer format. (SW)