Three Generations of Computerized Systems for Public Administration and Some Implications for Legal Decision‐Making

Abstract. The paper is concerned with the introduction of computerized systems into public administration. As a basis for the assessment of current systems, a brief history of such systems is offered. Not only are “legal information systems” discussed, but the access to factual information is also dealt with. Three generations of systems in public administration are indicated: The first generation emphasized use of data bases and computers for calculation, as well as “computer‐oriented legislation.” The second generation lifted the forms, which structure the case work, onto the computer screens. And the third generation is being born from the current efforts to design integrated work stations, using knowledge based methods. On this background, a discussion of impact on legal decision‐making is offered, emphasizing the replacement of vague by strict criteria, and the re‐use of pre‐collected factual information. A final note addresses the problem of reviewing or supervising such systems.