Since its creation in 1969, the UNIX operating system has been used for such applications as telephone switching systems, transaction processing, office automation systems, artificial intelligence, and computer games. To make intelligent decisions about the application of UNIX-based systems, the MIS manager must understand the UNIX system in general, its strengths and weaknesses, and its applicability in various functional areas. This article discusses these aspects of UNIX and suggests how the MIS manager can introduce UNIX into the MIS department.