Suchergebnisse

This article outlines the present state of the debate on quantitative history in France. J.-L. Robert observes a transformation of "classic" approaches to social and economic history as a result of new statistical tools, now available to historians. He advocates a careful methodological assessment of these techniques of research and discusses in detail problems like the stability of indicators over time, the application of sampling-techniques, and the limits of quantification in history.

Data processing and administration. What is the role of data processing in administration ? What effects has data processing on administration ? These are the two issues discussed by Mr. Huet. The author notes in the first place that the number of computers used in administration has trebled between 1970 and 1976. However, computers are not equally distributed among the various services, by far the best equipped being the postal and telegraphic administration. There are also regional disparities. Computers are mainly used for internal management, documentation, statistics, legal tracing, and tasks of public services. As regards the effects of data processing on administration, a much greater interest in data collection can be noted, as well as an increasing trend towards reshuffling and streamlining administrative structures. Finally, data processing cannot but affect the administrative decision-making process by requiring above all a more systematical approach to the issues at stake, with the concomitant drawback of slowing down the already heavy administrative process to the detriment of the public.

Efficiency yardsticks for public enterprise.
Efficiency measurement of public enterprise is based upon a series of yardsticks which combine private sector and public administration criteria. After analysing both, the author underlines their prerequisites of usage, viz. Steadiness of application, common sense, objectivity, and institutions and procedures for the collection of data, their weighting, and link-up with the overall action of the people in charge.