ABSTRACT
The use and abuse of Input/Output (I-O) models for analyzing change in regional economies has a history spanning some three decades. The increased availability of microcomputer versions of I-O models holds promise for more effective use of the technique. The availability of software like IMPLAN and ADOTMATR is likely to vastly improve the quality of regional I-O models for regional analysis. ADOTMATR provides step-by-step instructions in their user manual, the national Use and Make matrices at the 528 sector level, and LOTUS-like commands for helping the analyst to build and use regional I-O models. The region of interest for the I-O model user will often be some political subdivision. Users should recognize that their political unit—a county or multicounty planning area—is part of the broader regional economy that is likely to be affected by a much wider array of forces than those that directly affect its member subregions.
