office automation

The integration of office information functions, including word and 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 (see LAN). All office functions, including dictation, typing, filing, copying, fax, microfilm/records management and the telephone switchboard, fall into this category. See micrographics and graphics.