A data management system is now operating among 5 major family planning agencies in Metropolitan Atlanta. 3-digit codes identify each of the 44 clinics operating on the system as well as the agency sponsoring the clinic. Individual patient codes were extracted from an existing framework of identification within a major community hospital. Computerized data collection includes patient and clinic identification date of visit date of next appointment demographic data medical and contraceptive data and special studies information. Total development costs ranged from $25000 to $30000. Operational cost (estimated from 34000 patient records submitted in 1969) is $25000 per year. Cost per patient averages slightly more than 2 dollars. 60% of the monthly computer time is expended producing listings 20% producing tabulations and 20% editing updating and maintaining the Master File. In general manpower and machine requirements for design and implementation depend on the complexity of the needs which the data system is to serve.