The paper outlines a system for processing the data of a life office to make efficient use of men and of machines available at the present time. The conditions to be met by an electronic computer and the persons responsible for its operation (systems analysts, programmers and operators) are first considered. The mechanical and manual aspects of the system are then dealt with in turn. After an outline of the problems involved in the institution of the system, the financial and other benefits to be expected are estimated in the light of the experience so far gained. Finally, a brief look is taken at the way in which developments may proceed in the future.