Definition: office automation

The integration of office information functions, including word processing, data processing, graphics, desktop publishing and email. Office automation was a popular term in the 1970s and 1980s as the desktop computer exploded onto the scene.

The backbone of office automation is the company's local area network (LAN). All office functions, including dictation, typing, filing, copying, fax, microfilm and records management and the telephone switchboard, fall into this category.

Office Automation

This drawing was made by the author nearly 40 years ago to depict an integrated terminal in the office of the future.