Abstract
In terms of technical achievement, the computer revolution in U.S. business is outrunning expectations. In terms of economic payoff on new applications, it is rapidly losing momentum. Such is the evidence of a new study by McKinsey & Company of computer systems management in 36 major companies. | From a profit standpoint, their findings indicate computer efforts in all but a few exceptional companies are in real, if often unacknowledged, trouble. Faster, costlier, more sophisticated hardware; larger and increasingly costly computer staffs; and increasingly complex and ingenious applications are in evidence everywhere. | Almost 20 years ago the first computers for business use made their debut. Most large companies have successfully mechanized the bulk of their routine clerical and accounting procedures, and many have moved out into operating applications.