The next generation of computer systems in project management can be expected to embody both improved efficiency of existing functions and new functions as yet not widely implemented. In this paper, the authors review the past performance of computer systems for project management as a pointer to how future trends may move. As most project management decisions are taken in uncertainty, expert systems can be expected rapidly to gain a place in project management and the possibilities in this field are discussed. Multi-project management can be expected to be studied in its own right for development of computer aided techniques. The special problems of this area of project management are explored. The case for regarding automatic exchange of data as a crucial area for development of project management systems in the next generation is set out. Engineering project management involves many different parties who must exchange data in order to support each other's decisions. The next generation of computer systems can be expected to see considerable strides into the field of electronic exchange of drawings, specifications, programmes, projects and all the other data fundamental to management of the project.

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