HAVING made the function of filing clerk virtually redundant and depersonalised many banking services, computer technology is now targeting a more suitable case for treatment - the management consultant.

A computer programme developed by researchers in the science and technology faculty of the University of Manchester allegedly makes, analytical decisions better than people and could lead to some suits in this questionable profession being given their P45s. Already the programme has helped petrol company Texaco monitor competitors and set forecourt prices.

A spokesman claimed this week that the team had effectively produced an automated management consultant making costly company presentations and expense account lunches a thing of the past. But is one stream of incomprehensible jargon to be replaced by technology speak? It could be an unenviable choice between goodbye management consultant and hello computer nerd.