How Personnel Managers Come to Terms with the Computer

On the basis of studies of 35 personnel managers who had introduced computerisation and a detailed comprehensive case study of the introduction of computerisation into the personnel function, the factors that differentiate adoptors into the categories of “Stars”, “Radicals”, “Plodders” and “Beginners” are analysed. The critical role of the personnel manager in facilitating successful adoption, the role of the computer in changing the shape of the personnel function, its power and professionalisation are considered, and finally the challenges it will present for the personnel department in the future.