Before the readers - the classic work of an outstanding Soviet scientist, a pioneer of cybernetics in the USSR and the world, academician V.M. Glushkov, dedicated to automated control systems (ACS). The book outlines the basic principles of building computers and programming systems, as well as mathematical methods used in ACS (linear and dynamic programming, theory of mass service, system analysis, etc.). General information on ACS and data processing systems, principles of construction of reference and information systems and complexes of planning and control tasks that need to be solved in ACS are given. Particular attention is paid to inventory management and its relationship with operational calendar planning. Management tasks in macroeconomics and principles of building a national automated system are described. The book, according to the author, was intended for engineering and technical workers and business leaders of all industries involved in control automation. Even today, taking into account the development of the digital economy, it may be of interest to business leaders, economists and managers, employees of state and municipal authorities, who will be helped to get an initial orientation in a wide range of issues arising from the development and implementation of automated management systems.