The materiel management automation environment is undoubtedly exploding. Hospitals which already rely upon computer systems continue to expand the tasks they perform and department they serve. Even hospitals which have not become reliant upon computers now bring considerable knowledge to the table when negotiating to obtain their first systems. In general, materiel managers continue to grow more sophisticated in hardware and software matters. Most view automation as one the most effective tools they and their hospitals have in controlling expenses. The coming years will surely produce much more system integration as materiel managers begin merging the extensive capabilities of computers with the specific needs and goals of their facilities.