[originaltext] Although the first computers were produced for use in governm

Although the first computers were produced for use in government and industry, they have become common in other areas during the past 25 years.
    In business, computers perform many functions. They are used to perform the data processing operations of recording, classifying, sorting, computing, storing, retrieving, reporting, reproducing, and communicating information. They have the advantage of being able to complete these processes at very high speeds. Computers also can process data in a size invisible to the human eye, making storage of material a simpler task than it once was.
    Universities utilize computers in several ways. Just as business stores statistical data, universities store statistics about students by using computers. Registration also has been aided by the computer. By putting their programs of studies on the computer, students can find out immediately which classes are open for additional students and which already have the number that are allowed to register. Many professors use computers in their research, and experimentation has been done on teaching by means of the computer.
    In the past 5 years computers have been affecting our daily lives more and more. Most large department and grocery stores now have computerized cash registers. Almost everyone is familiar with the computerized billing that is done by credit card companies. In Chicago computers are being used to control traffic on the large expressways. It is even possible today to buy your own computer and use it in your home.