| Summary: | A study examines specific aspects of computing in U.S. municipal administrations that use only personal computers (PCs) and compares these with cities that use central computer systems. Data from the International City/County Management Association's 1993 Survey of Computing in Local Governments were compared in relation to extent of automation, categories of end-users, degree of technological sophistication, problems with computers, impacts of computing, and satisfaction with computing. The findings indicate that in cities with central systems, technological applications are usually more sophisticated, more widely diffused within the numerous functions of city government, and utilized by a greater proportion of managers and professionals than in PC-only cities. Central systems seem to be institutionalized within city governments, whereas PC-only systems are merely routinized. The reliance of PC-only cities on ad hoc solutions, outsourcing, or computer experts results in a failure to develop ongoing support capabilities.
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