Why computers for you? It seems like Walter E. Fincke, president, Electronic Data Processing Division, Honeywell, Inc., has come up with the most direct answer. “We have no choice,” he says, and then goes on to point out how fast the computer is changing our way of business life. “Properly used it can become a deliverance from human ignorance and lack of knowledge. Information technology in particular brings new dimensions of useful and timely information.”

Mr. Fincke’s view on this is thoroughly established by research of our editorial staff. This is why we’re glad to present to you our own perspective on electronic data processing for automotive fleets. (See report beginning on page 24 this issue). As the role of automotive fleets in our nation’s economy continue to expand, so will the competition and the need to operate even more efficiently. Electronic data processing systems, ifproperlyestablished, can provide that competitive edge that means so much. Not only is there the opportunity to reduce costs and make money, but also there is the opportunity to grow whenthetiming is right. The market is growing. Like General Bedford Forest pointed out many years ago, you have to get there first with the most.

Reams and reams of stories, report s and news releases on automotive safety activities—Federal, business, and pressure groups—are now coming across our desk. Normally we would be disturbed and not a little confused about the deluge. But from each source the patterns are clear regarding the major aspects.

We were going to do a wrap-up for this issue, then we decided to wait for additional perspective. After all, the Federal safety legislation is now going through the Congressional mill. Looking back on other types of legislation that has vitally affected the nation in the past, we have the feeling that what emerges will be more a qualified bill than the emotion, pro and con, that is wrapped up in such an explosive subject as automotive safety. Congress is not going to tamper too much with an industry that is so important to the industrial stability of the nation and the free world. Neither is it going to leave itself open to continued conflict with certain vociferous pressure groups and politicians.

We have the feeling that whatever safety legislation emerges will be something practical that all can live with.