CATI (Computer Aided Telephone Interviewing) became a primary means of obtaining quality epidemiological data. Its use steadily increased and in 1995 it was a major technology in use by almost every NIH Institute. Although CATI had been used for many years, its implementation had not kept up with technological developments in computers. Available CATI software products were deficient in features, inflexible, difficult to learn to use and had copious problems. Modern computer technology had the potential to satisfy the growing need for an improved product. This product had applications in over 3000 U.S. companies engaged in public opinion and market research.