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Computers Before the widespread use of computers, managers could not （1） full use of large amounts of valuable information about a companys activities. The information either （2） managers too late or was too expensive to be used. Today, managers are facing a wide （3） of data processing and information instruments. Managers can draw on computer-based information systems to control （4） in every area of their company. On any kinds of performance measures, the information provided by these systems helps managers compare standards （5） actual results, find problems, and take proper action （6） it is too late to make changes. The （7） of computerized （电脑化） information systems has sharply changed management control in many companies. Even a neighborhood shopkeeper may now use computers to （8） sales, billing, and other activities. Now, there are about 24 million microcomputers in （9） in the United States m one for every 10 citizens. It is （10） that by 1996, 61 percent of American managers will be using some sort of electronic work station. In order for managers to be sure that the computer-based information they are receiving is （11）, they need to understand how computers work. However, in most （12） they do not need to learn how to program computers. Rather, managers should understand how computerized information systems work; how they are （13）; their limitations and costs; and the manner in which information systems may be used. （14） an understanding is not difficult to achieve. | 
