Exploratory case study research was initiated to study the evolution of management information systems and their use in operational and strategic decisions. The unit of analysis was the management team on farms with innovative or successful information systems. Human factors, such as an analytical nature and commitment to lifelong learning, were perceived to be the most important common elements. Production variables often were critical success factors. Managers annually developed financial statements; enterprise and "what if" analyses were conducted regularly. Learning about questions that innovative producers have difficulty addressing was time-consuming but instructive with respect to research and educational needs.For decades, educators have encouraged record keeping by developing hand record systems and software as well as facilitating the formation of farm business management associations. Still, farm record keeping is often a neglected chore. Advances in computer hardware, software, and telecommunications technology have greatly increased the potential for effective computer-based support of farm management decisions. A few producers have developed systems that capture information in a timely, efficient manner.