SUNGARD DATA SYSTEMS INC
10-K405, 1997-03-28
COMPUTER PROCESSING & DATA PREPARATION
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<PAGE>
 
                      SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                            Washington, D.C. 20549

                                   Form 10-K
(Mark One)
[X] Annual report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
    Act of 1934 for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 or
                                          -----------------       
[ ] Transition report pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
    Act of 1934 for the transition period from ________ to ________

    Commission file number ............................................. 0-14232

                         SunGard(R) Data Systems Inc.
            (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

        Delaware                                          51-0267091
(State of incorporation)                    (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)

                 1285 Drummers Lane, Wayne, Pennsylvania 19087
          (Address of principal executive offices, including zip code)

                                (610) 341-8700
                    (Telephone number, including area code)

          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(b) of the Act:
                                     None

          Securities registered pursuant to Section 12(g) of the Act:
                    Common Stock, Par Value $0.01 Per Share

Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required
to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during
the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was
required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing
requirements for the past 90 days.   Yes  X.   No.
                                         ---       ---

The aggregate market value of the registrant's voting stock held by non-
affiliates of the registrant as of March 17, 1997 was $1,866,914,210./(1)/  
There were 43,068,568 shares of the registrant's Common Stock outstanding as of
March 17, 1997.

Parts II and IV of this Form 10-K incorporate by reference certain information
from the registrant's annual report to stockholders for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1996, and Part III of this Form 10-K incorporates by reference
certain information from the registrant's definitive proxy statement, for its
1997 annual meeting of stockholders, filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission not later than 120 days after the end of the registrant's fiscal year
covered by this report.

Indicate by check mark if disclosure of delinquent filers pursuant to Item 405
of Regulation S-K is not contained herein, and will not be contained, to the
best of the registrant's knowledge, in the definitive proxy statement
incorporated by reference into Part III of this Form 10-K.   [X]


(1) This equals the number of outstanding shares of the registrant's Common
    Stock, reduced by the number of shares that may be deemed beneficially owned
    by the registrant's directors, nominees and officers, multiplied by the last
    sale price for the registrant's Common Stock reported on March 17, 1997.
    This information is provided solely for record keeping purposes of the
    Securities and Exchange Commission and shall not be construed as an
    admission that any of the registrant's directors, nominees or officers is an
    affiliate of the registrant or is the beneficial owner of any such shares.
    Any such inference is hereby disclaimed.
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

                                                                 Page
                                                                 ----
                                     PART I
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>         <C>                                                  <C>
Item 1.     Business...........................................    1
                Overview.......................................    1
                Investment Considerations......................    2
                Investment Support Systems.....................    3
                Disaster Recovery Services.....................    8
                Computer Services and Other....................   11
                Product Development............................   12
                Acquisitions and Offerings.....................   13
                Competition....................................   13
                Marketing......................................   14
                Employees......................................   14
                Proprietary Protection.........................   15
 
Item 2.     Properties.........................................   15
Item 3.     Legal Proceedings..................................   17
Item 4.     Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders   17
Item 4.1    Certain Executive Officers of the Registrant.......   17
 
</TABLE>
                                    PART II
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
<S>         <C>                                                  <C>
Item 5.     Market for Registrant's Common Equity and
               Related Stockholder Matters.....................   19
Item 6.     Selected Financial Data............................   19
Item 7.     Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial
               Condition and Results of Operations.............   19
Item 8.     Financial Statements and Supplementary Data........   19
Item 9.     Changes in and Disagreements with Accountants on
               Accounting and Financial Disclosure.............   19
 
</TABLE>
                                    PART III
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
<S>         <C>                                                             <C>
Item 10.    Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant.  20
Item 11.    Executive Compensation.............................  20
Item 12.    Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners
               and Management..................................  20
Item 13.    Certain Relationships and Related Transactions.....  20
 
</TABLE>
                                    PART IV
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
<S>         <C>                                                 <C>
Item 14.    Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and
            Reports on Form 8-K................................  21
 
            Signatures.........................................  22
            List of Exhibits...................................  23
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART I

Item 1.  Business

Overview

     SunGard Data Systems Inc. (the "Company") is a computer services and
software company that specializes in proprietary investment support systems,
comprehensive computer disaster recovery services and proprietary healthcare
information systems. The Company believes that it is the only large specialized
provider of investment support systems to the financial services industry and
the pioneer and a leading provider of comprehensive computer disaster recovery
services. The Company's business approach is to focus on market niches in which
it has opportunities to develop or acquire leading products and advantageous
market positions.

     The Company seeks to maximize recurring revenues by selling most of its
computer services under fixed-term contracts and by emphasizing customer support
and product quality in order to establish long-term relationships with
customers. The Company's recurring revenues are derived primarily from contracts
for remote processing, disaster recovery and software maintenance services,
which together accounted for approximately 80% of the Company's total revenues
during the last three years (77% in 1996). Of the total number of the Company's
remote processing and disaster recovery services contracts that were scheduled
to expire during the last three years, approximately 78% were renewed or
replaced with new contracts (75% in 1996). While there can be no assurance that
the rate of contract renewals will remain at this level, the Company believes
that it will continue to renew a high percentage of these contracts. None of the
Company's customers individually accounted for more than two percent of the
Company's revenues in 1996.

     The Company's operations are decentralized, and its management philosophy
is one of "controlled entrepreneurship." The Company's services are provided
through separate business units. Each business is directed by its own management
team and has its own sales, marketing, product development, operations and
customer support personnel. Overall corporate control and coordination are
achieved through centralized budgeting, financial and legal reporting, cash
management and strategic planning. The Company believes that this approach has
facilitated more focused marketing, specialized product development, responsive
customer service and highly motivated management. The Company's business units
are organized as follows:

     Investment Support Systems:

     SunGard Financial Systems Group:  Portfolio management and securities
     -------------------------------
trading and accounting systems for financial institutions, broker/dealers,
insurance companies, governments and corporations. Business units: SunGard
Brokerage Systems, SunGard Dealing Systems, SunGard Global Systems, SunGard
Government Systems, SunGard Insurance Systems and SunGard Securities Systems.

     SunGard Trading Systems Group:  Trading, risk management and accounting
     -----------------------------                                          
systems for derivative instruments, securities and foreign exchange for
international financial institutions, brokerage firms and corporations. Business
units: Front Capital Systems, Renaissance Software, SunGard Capital Markets and
SunGard Futures Systems.

     SunGard Trust and Shareholder Systems Group:  Trust and investment
     -------------------------------------------                       
accounting, portfolio management and administration, securities trading, custody
and employee benefit plan systems for financial institutions, stockbrokers and
corporations; mutual fund, stock and bond accounting systems for mutual funds,
transfer agents and corporations; accounting systems for nonprofit
organizations. Business units: All Solutions, Bi-Tech Software, Corbel,
Corporate Services (BondMaster), CSS, Portfolio Administration Limited, Series
7, Series 11, Shaw Data, SunGard Asset Management Systems,
<PAGE>
 
SunGard/DML, SunGard Employee Benefit Systems, SunGard Investment Systems,
SunGard Investment Systems SA (Geneva), SunGard Investment Administration
Services, SunGard Shareholder Systems, SunGard Trust Systems and Worrall Miller.

     Disaster Recovery Services:

     SunGard Recovery Services Group: Comprehensive business recovery services
     -------------------------------                                   
for mainframe and midrange computer platforms; work-group, mobile and quick-ship
recovery services; recovery planning software and related consulting and
educational services. Business units: SunGard Planning Solutions and SunGard
Recovery Services.

     Computer Services and Other:

     SunGard Computer Services Group:  Remote-access computer processing and
     -------------------------------                                        
outsourcing and automated mailing services.  Business units:  SunGard Computer
Services and SunGard Mailing Services.

     SunGard Healthcare Information Systems Group:  Work-flow management and
     --------------------------------------------                           
document-imaging systems for healthcare companies and institutions. Business
units: Intelus Corporation and MACESS Corporation.

     The Company, a Delaware corporation, was organized in 1982.  The Company's
principal executive offices are located at 1285 Drummers Lane, Suite 300, Wayne,
Pennsylvania 19087, and its telephone number is (610) 341-8700.

Investment Considerations

     Statements about the Company's expectations and all other statements in
this Report and other Company communications other than historical facts are
forward-looking statements. Since these statements involve risks and
uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, the Company's actual
results could differ materially from expected results. The Company derives most
of its forward-looking statements from its operating budgets and forecasts,
which are based upon many detailed assumptions. While the Company believes that
its assumptions are reasonable, it cautions that there are inherent difficulties
in predicting certain important factors, especially the timing and magnitude of
software sales, the timing and scope of technological advances, the performance
of recently acquired businesses, the prospects for future acquisitions, and the
overall condition of the financial services industry. Certain of these factors
are further discussed below and should be considered in evaluating the Company's
forward-looking statements and any investment in the Company's common stock.

     Acquisitions. The Company seeks to grow both internally and through the
acquisition of complementary businesses. The Company's growth, in part, depends
upon the availability of suitable acquisition candidates and whether
acquisitions can be completed on acceptable terms. Competition from other
acquirors and the alternative of a public equity offering may adversely affect
both the availability and terms of future acquisitions. Further acquisitions by
the Company may require the use of debt or equity financing. There can be no
assurance that any acquired business will perform as expected. Poor performance
by an acquired business could adversely affect the Company's results and cause
impairment of part of the Company's goodwill.

     Technological Changes. The Company's success, in part, depends upon
continued adaptation of its proprietary software and recovery services to new
computer and telecommunications technology on a timely and cost effective basis.
In particular, rapid technological developments, which cannot be predicted,
could have a material adverse effect on the Company's business and prospects.

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
     Product Development. The Company must continually enhance and evolve its
proprietary software to keep pace with developments in the financial services
and healthcare industries. There can be no assurance that the Company will be
able to update its software or develop new systems without experiencing
unforeseen delays or that newly developed products will be successfully marketed
and sold. (See Product Development.)

     Financial Services Industry. The Company sells most of its computer
services and software to the financial services industry and is generally
dependent upon the continued vitality of that industry. A material adverse
change in the condition of the financial services industry, such as a
significant decline in securities or derivatives trading activities or in the
number or value of managed portfolios, could have a material adverse effect on
the Company's business and prospects.

     New Business Line. In 1995, the Company established its Healthcare
Information Systems Group by acquiring two providers of work-flow management and
document-imaging systems to the healthcare industry (see Computer Services and
Other). Although the Company has experience managing software businesses, the
Company has no prior experience in the healthcare information systems market. In
addition, a number of the Company's competitors in this market have
substantially greater financial, technological and marketing resources than the
Company.

Investment Support Systems

     The Company designs, markets and maintains a comprehensive family of
proprietary investment support systems for the financial services industry. The
fundamental purpose of these systems is to automate the complex accounting
calculations, record keeping and reporting associated with investment
operations. The Company markets its investment support systems throughout the
United States, and many systems also are marketed internationally.

     The Company delivers its investment support systems primarily as remote
processing services using the Company's computers and also through software
licenses for use on customers' computers. The Company provides investment
support remote processing services primarily from its computer centers in
Birmingham (Alabama), Boston, Charlotte, Fairfield (New Jersey), London (two
centers), Los Angeles, Minneapolis, Sydney (Australia) and Voorhees (New Jersey)
(see Properties). As of December 31, 1996, the Company had approximately 1,840
remote processing contracts in force. These contracts generally have initial
terms of one or more years and then continue for successive, one-year or longer
renewal terms, although some allow the customer to terminate on relatively short
notice.

     The Company's investment support systems business has continued to increase
in both size and scope, due primarily to acquisitions (see Acquisitions and
Offerings). During 1996, the Company continued its product unification and
enhancement efforts to provide customers with access to multiple systems and
data through common graphical interfaces and shared databases. The Company also
continued evolving its mainframe computer systems by converting some systems to
client-server technology and by developing sophisticated personal computer and
workstation front-end products for others. Also during 1996, the Company
continued to add multicurrency functionality to its systems and pursue
opportunities to market more of its systems internationally.

     Investment Accounting and Portfolio Management Systems. The Company's
investment accounting and portfolio management systems maintain the books of
record for all types of large investment portfolios, such as those managed by
banks, mutual funds, employee retirement plans and insurance companies. The
primary functions of these systems are to accept investment transactions, value
portfolios using transmissions of security prices received from various
worldwide sources, perform complex accounting calculations and general ledger
postings, and generate a variety of accounting, audit, tax and regulatory
reports. In addition, some of these products are used by investment advisers and
other portfolio managers to manage large investment portfolios. These systems
track investment activities such as purchases and sales, combine these
activities with outside

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
market data such as security prices and quality ratings, and provide analytical
models to assist with investment strategy and management decisions. The
Company's principal investment accounting and portfolio management systems, some
of which have multicurrency capabilities, are described in the following table:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                Mode of                       
          System               Platform        Delivery       Primary Markets 
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>               <C>             <C>
 
APSYS III(TM)                IBM mainframe     software        private banks in
                             Digital           license         Luxembourg and
                                                               Switzerland
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVEST ONE(R)                IBM mainframe     remote          international
                                               processing      banks, large
                                               service         bank trust
                                               and software    departments,
                                               license         mutual funds,
                         ------------------------------------  insurance
                             UNIX workstation  software        companies and
                                               license         other financial
                                                               institutions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
ON-LINE(TM)                  Bull mainframe    remote          institutional
                                               processing      and retail
                                               service         investment
- -------------------------------------------------------------  advisers and
ON-SITE(TM)                  UNIX workstation  software        other portfolio
                                               license         managers
- ------------------------------------------------------------- 
SHAW ASPIRE(TM)              microcomputer     software       
                                               license         
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONEYMAX(R)/                 UNIX workstation  remote          government
SERIES 2(TM)                                   processing      treasurers and
                                               service         financial
                                                               institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAL(TM)                      IBM midrange      remote          United Kingdom
                                               processing      stockbroking
                                               service         firms and fund
                                                               managers
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PMS(TM)/APS(TM)              microcomputer     software        small banks,
                                               license         thrifts and
                                                               other financial
                                                               institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PAR EX(R)                    microcomputer     software        insurance
                                               license and     companies
                                               remote
                                               processing
                                               service
- -------------------------------------------------------------
PRISM(TM)                    IBM mainframe     software
                                               license
- -------------------------------------------------------------
SDIM(TM)                     microcomputer     software
                                               license
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     During 1996, the Company introduced the Enterprise Data Warehouse module,
which provides access to INVEST ONE data in Sybase or Microsoft Access
relational databases, and APS 2, which is a PC-based Windows 95/NT product that
will be the eventual successor to PMS, APS and SERIES 2.  Also in 1996, ON-LINE
was converted from batch processing to real-time processing.  The Company added
APSYS III, an investment accounting and portfolio management system for private
banks in Luxembourg and Switzerland, to its product offerings with the
acquisition of NCS Financial Systems, Inc. in July 1996 (see Acquisitions and
Offerings).

     The Company also provides certain general ledger accounting systems to
insurance companies and nonprofit organizations, which are markets where the
Company has opportunities to cross-sell its investment accounting systems. The
Company's general ledger accounting products include ABC(TM) (Accounting Budget
and Cost System), CDS(TM) (Cash Disbursement System) and EAS(TM) (Enterprise
Accounting System) for insurance companies, and IFAS(TM) (Interactive Fund
Accounting System) for educational institutions, state and local governments and
other nonprofit organizations. During 1996, the Company introduced IFASNET, a
module that allows publication of reports via the Internet or Intranet, and
INSIGHT, a GUI front-end product.

     Securities Trading and Accounting Systems. The Company's securities trading
and accounting systems are used primarily by the so-called "sell side" of the
investment business. The users of these products generally are traders or
dealers of securities (including those trading for their own accounts) and their
back-office operations. In addition to performing many investment accounting
functions, the Company's securities trading and accounting systems maintain
inventories of unsold securities, process 

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
trade activities and assist users in monitoring compliance with audit limits,
trading limits and government regulations.  The Company's principal software
products in this category are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                              Mode of                         
          System                Platform      Delivery        Primary Markets 
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>              <C>             <C>
 
BOLT(R) 2                    IBM mainframe    remote          capital markets
                                              processing      departments of
                                              service         domestic banks,
- -----------------------------------------------------------   broker/dealers
GSM GLOBAL SECUR-            Digital Vax      software        and other
  ITIES MANAGER(R)           UNIX             license         financial
                             workstation                      institutions
- -----------------------------------------------------------
INTRADER(R)                  UNIX             software    
                             workstation      license     
- -----------------------------------------------------------
MONEYMARKET II(R)            Digital Vax      remote      
                                              processing  
                                              service and 
                                              software    
                                              license     
- -----------------------------------------------------------
OMNI SA(TM)                  IBM mainframe    remote      
                             IBM AS 400       processing  
                             IBM RS 6000      service and 
                                              software    
                                              license      
- -----------------------------------------------------------
PHASE3(R)                    Tandem           remote
                                              processing
                                              service and
                                              software
                                              license
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MATRIX(TM)                   IBM AS 400       software        capital markets
                                              license         departments of
- -----------------------------------------------------------   international
DYNAMIX(TM)                  Windows NT       software        banks and other
                                              license         financial
                                                              institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     The Company expanded its international activities with the August 1996
acquisition of SunGard Dealing Systems Pty Limited, a business based in Sydney,
Australia that provides multicurrency front- and back-office systems for
portfolio management, deal capture and analytics to banks and brokerages located
primarily in the Pacific Rim (see Acquisitions and Offerings).  With respect to
the PHASE3 system, the Company completed development of new foreign securities
functionality, fixed-income trading functionality and other enhancements to
better support retail brokerage functionality.  In addition during 1996, the
Company continued to expand its offerings by signing a PHASE3 facilities
management agreement with a large investment banking firm.

     Derivatives Trading and Related Systems.  The Company provides software
applications encompassing most aspects of risk management, trading and
processing for capital markets globally.  The Company's trading systems are used
primarily by the so-called "sell side" of the investment business, although "buy
side" demand for these systems is growing.  Generally, these products are used
by traders and market-makers of over-the-counter and exchange-traded derivative
instruments, securities and foreign exchange contracts and by their middle- and
back-office operations.  These systems provide trading support, risk management,
trade processing and accounting functions, and also assist users in determining
hedging strategies and monitoring compliance with capital requirements, trading
limits and government regulations.  The Company's principal software products in
this category are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Mode of    
          System                 Platform      Delivery        Primary Markets 
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>               <C>             <C>
DEVON DERIVATIVES            Windows NT        software        trading rooms
  SYSTEM(TM)                 UNIX workstation  license         and capital
DEVON FOREX                                                    markets
  SYSTEM (TM)                                                  departments of
PANORAMA(TM)                                                   international
- -----------------------------------------------------------    banks, and
INTAS (TM)                   Windows NT        software        trading rooms of
OPTAS (TM)                   UNIX workstation  license         other financial
TRADENET (TM)                                                  institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Mode of                         
          System                 Platform      Delivery        Primary Markets 
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>                               <C> 
OPUS(R)                      UNIX workstation  software        trading rooms
                                               license         and capital
                                                               markets
                                                               departments of
                                                               international
                                                               banks, and
                                                               trading rooms of
                                                               other financial
                                                               institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OCTAGON(TM) FUTURES          UNIX workstation  software        international
  SYSTEM                                       license and     banks and
                                               remote          brokerage firms
                                               processing      active in the
                                               service         futures markets
                                                               for principal
                                                               and customer
                                                               business
- ----------------------------------------------                                  
GMI SYSTEM(TM)               IBM AS 400
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     In January 1997, the Company acquired GMI Software, Inc., a provider of
software and services to financial institutions for the processing of exchange-
traded futures and options and other securities, which has become part of
SunGard Futures Systems (see Acquisitions and Offerings).

     Trust, Global Custody and Securities Lending Systems.  The Company's trust
systems automate the investment, administrative and operations areas unique to
the bank trust business, including cash management, management and investment of
assets, preparation of tax returns for taxable trusts, payment of trust
expenses, payment of benefits to retirees, beneficiary distributions, customer
statement production and other customer service duties.  The Company's global
custody systems automate the functions associated with the worldwide custody and
safekeeping of investment assets, such as trade settlement, investment income
collection, preparation of client statements, tax reclamation, foreign exchange,
and reconciliation of depository and sub-custodian positions.  The Company's
securities lending systems automate the functions associated with worldwide
securities lending activities.  The Company's principal trust, global custody
and securities lending systems are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
        System                 Platform         Mode of        Primary Markets
                                                Delivery
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>                <C>            <C>
AUTOTRUST(R)                 IBM mainframe      remote         small and medium
                                                processing     size bank trust
CHARLOTTE(TM)                Windows NT         service        departments    
                                                
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMNI ES(TM)                  IBM mainframe      software       large and medium
                                                license and    size bank trust,
                                                remote         custody and
                                                processing     securities
                                                service        departments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMNI IC(R)                   scalable,          software       bank global
                             multiplatform      license        custody
                                                               departments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMNILEND(TM)                 IBM mainframe      software       banks,
                             UNIX workstation   license and    broker/dealers
                                                remote         and other
                                                processing     financial
                                                service        institutions
- ------------------------------------------------------------
OMNI IFS(TM)                 microcomputer      software
                             UNIX workstation   license
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MICROTRUST(R)                microcomputer      software       small bank trust
                                                license        departments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRUSTWARE(R)                 Digital Vax        software       medium size bank
  SERIES 7                   Digital Alpha      license and    trust departments
                                                remote
                                                processing
                                                service
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TRUSTWARE(R)                 Digital Vax        software       large and medium
  SERIES 11                  Digital Alpha      license and    size bank trust,
                                                remote         custody and
                                                processing     securities
                                                service        departments and
                                                               investment
                                                               management firms
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     The Company offers specialized trust asset custody services to its
AUTOTRUST customers and other banks and trust companies. These services are
provided under a master contract with The Bank 

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
of New York (the "Bank").  The Bank holds the customers' trust assets, and the
Company handles account record keeping and customer communications.  The Company
is liable to the Bank for any unpaid obligations of the Company's custody
services customers that exceed the value of their assets held in the Bank's
custody.

     With the acquisition of NCS Financial Systems, Inc. in July 1996, the
Company expanded its trust management and corporate trust systems business by
adding the TRUSTWARE SERIES 7 and SERIES 11 products (see Acquisitions and
Offerings). During 1996, TRUSTWARE SERIES 7 was enhanced to operate on a Digital
Alpha platform and to provide larger volume processing. Also during 1996, the
Company completed the development of a new Windows front-end to AUTOTRUST known
as the CHARLOTTE system, which added new functionality, including SQL
capability.

     The Company also markets EXPEDITER(R) to its trust accounting systems
customers. EXPEDITER is a product that facilitates the automated entry of mutual
fund transactions. Since its introduction in 1993, EXPEDITER has continued to
expand its selection of mutual funds and to gain market acceptance. EXPEDITER is
marketed not only to users of the Company's trust accounting systems, but also
to users of the Company's securities trading systems and participant accounting
systems. In addition during 1996, the Company began marketing EXPEDITER for use
with other vendors' software products.

     Participant Accounting Systems. The Company's participant accounting
systems automate the investment operations associated with defined contribution
retirement plans such as 401(k) plans. These systems maintain the books of
record for each participant's share of the cash and securities in the plan,
monitor compliance with government regulations and plan restrictions, process
payments of benefits to retirees, and produce tax reports for plan sponsors and
participants. The Company's principal participant accounting systems are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Mode of      
        System                 Platform        Delivery        Primary Markets 
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>               <C>             <C>
OMNIPLUS(TM)                 IBM mainframe     remote          corporate, bank
OMNIPLAN(R)                                    processing      and other
OMNIPAY(R)                                     service,        retirement plan
OMNIDBEN(TM)                                   software        managers
                                               license and
                                               full service
                                               bureau
                                               processing
                         -----------------------------------
                             UNIX workstation  software
                                               license
                         -----------------------------------
                             IBM AS 400        software
                                               license
                         ----------------------------------- 
                             microcomputer     software
                                               license
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MPR(TM)                      microcomputer     software        small and medium
                                               license         size banks
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QUANTECH(TM)                 microcomputer     software        retirement
                                               license         administration
                                                               firms and
                                                               institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     During 1996, the Company completed development of OMNIPLUS(TM), which will
succeed OMNIPLAN and be the Company's next generation participant accounting
system. OMNIPLUS will support all types of defined contribution plans. In 1996,
the Company introduced OMNIWEB(TM), which allows plan participants access to
data via the Internet.

     The Company expanded its activities in the Pacific Rim with the January
1996 acquisition of the business of Worrall Miller & Associates, a provider of
pension plan administration software in Australia (see Acquisitions and
Offerings). In November 1996, the Company acquired Corbel & Co., whose products
include QUANTECH, a retirement plan administration and reporting system, and
AUTODOC(R), an authoring and document-generation system for the creation of
retirement plan documents and forms and other complex documents (see
Acquisitions and Offerings).

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
     Investment Reporting and Analysis Systems. The Company's investment
reporting and analysis systems accept accounting data from other investment
support systems and perform special analyses for fund managers and customers.
These systems analyze the performance of portfolios, perform other types of
investment measurement and analysis, and produce regulatory reports for
retirement plan sponsors and participants. The Company's principal software
products in this category are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Mode of         
       System                  Platform        Delivery         Primary Markets
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>               <C>              <C>
DATAPREP(TM)                 IBM mainframe     remote           corporate, bank
EMBERS(R)                                      processing       and other
                                               service and      retirement plan
                                               software         managers
                                               license
- ------------------------------------------------------------
SUPERF4(R)                   IBM mainframe     remote
                                               processing
                                               service and
                                               software
                                               license
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OMNIVEST(TM)                 UNIX workstation  software         investment
                                               license          management
                                                                departments of
                                                                banks and other
                                                                financial
                                                                institutions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     Shareholder Accounting Systems. The Company's shareholder accounting
systems automate the transfer agent process for stock, bond and mutual fund
issues. These systems maintain shareholder and bondholder positions, process
dividend and interest distributions, generate proxy materials, tabulate votes,
and produce tax reports and periodic shareholder statements. The Company's
principal software products in this category are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                                               Mode of                         
          System                 Platform      Delivery          Primary Markets
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>               <C>               <C>
INVESTAR(R)                  IBM mainframe     remote            large mutual
INVESTAR ONE(TM)             UNIX              processing        fund managers
                                               service           and transfer
                                                                 agents
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUNSTAR(R)                   IBM mainframe     remote            large
                             UNIX workstation  processing        commercial
                                               service and       bond and
                                               software license  equity
                                                                 transfer agents
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BONDMASTER(R)                Digital Vax       remote            large bank,
                             Digital Alpha     processing        corporate and
                                               service and       municipal bond
                                               software license  transfer agents
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CSSII(R)                     IBM mainframe     software license  corporate and
                                                                 utility stock
                                                                 transfer agents
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

     The Company added BONDMASTER and CSSII to its shareholder accounting
systems product line with the July 1996 acquisition of NCS Financial Systems,
Inc. and the October 1996 acquisition of the securities products business of
Checkfree Corporation, respectively (see Acquisitions and Offerings). During
1996, INVESTAR ONE, an advanced mutual fund shareholder record keeping system
that combines mainframe and client-server architectures and provides real-time
operations, completed a beta test and went into production.

     The Company also markets a work-flow management and document-imaging
software system named PowerImage(R) to users of its shareholder accounting
systems. This product uses electronic document-imaging to improve work flow and
to enhance levels of service and efficiency.

Disaster Recovery Services

     Many businesses depend upon computers to perform critical tasks and use
communications networks to transmit data between a centralized computer facility
and distant offices. If a natural disaster, fire, power failure or other
emergency disrupts a company's computer operations or interrupts communications
between its data processing center and remote locations, its ability to stay in
business may be jeopardized. To address this problem, the Company maintains
alternate data processing sites 

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
for use by customers whenever they are unable to operate or communicate with
their own computer systems.

  The primary alternate sites provided by the Company are fully equipped and
operational computer centers known as "hotsites," where customers may restore
their critical applications using the Company's installed computer equipment.
The Company also provides environmentally prepared computer centers known as
"coldsites," in which customers may install and operate their own computer
equipment.  In addition, the Company provides mobile recovery resources that may
be delivered or shipped directly to customer-specified locations.

  The Company also provides general office space equipped with office equipment,
which customers may use alone or in conjunction with the use of a hotsite or
coldsite. This service offering, known as Work Group Recovery(SM), also includes
MegaVoice(R), a centralized voice communications recovery service that backs up
customers' automated telephone call distribution systems. The Company also
offers Program Management Services(SM), which encompasses the design,
coordination and management of all aspects of customers' disaster recovery
programs.

  Most of the Company's larger disaster recovery customers purchase a basic
package of services that includes use of a hotsite for six weeks to recover from
any computer center failure, a coldsite for six months if recovery operations
must continue for more than six weeks, a hotsite to regularly test disaster
recovery procedures, and general office space during recovery operations and
tests.  Technical assistance when conducting recovery operations and tests and
with designing and implementing a backup communications network are also
provided.

  The Company provides disaster recovery services to users of IBM (and
compatible) mainframe computers and also to users of Data General, Digital,
Filenet, Hewlett Packard, IBM midrange (AS/400, RS/6000 and Systems/3X), NCR,
Netframe, Prime, Pyramid, Sequent, Sequoia, Silicon Graphics, Stratus, Sun
Microsystems, Tandem and Unisys computers.  These services are marketed directly
and through representatives primarily to IBM (and compatible), Digital, Hewlett
Packard and Unisys mainframe and various midrange computer installations in
North America.

  The Company expanded the customer base of its Unisys platform offerings during
1996 through two acquisitions of disaster recovery businesses (see Acquisitions
and Offerings).  In 1996, the Company continued to expand its disaster recovery
offerings to users of midrange computers and further enlarged its midrange sales
force.  This effort was enhanced by acquisitions in 1996 and early 1997 that
increased the number of customer contracts for midrange computer facilities and
the types of midrange offerings (see Acquisitions and Offerings).  Also in 1996,
the Company continued to expand its marketing partner program by establishing
alliances with hardware providers and others and by signing certain agreements
with third parties to expand and enhance its recovery services and capabilities.

  The Company also introduced several new programs during 1996.  The SAP
Technology Practice, which is devoted to the specialized disaster recovery needs
of SAP software users, was formed during 1996.  In late 1996, the Company
announced SunGard Secure 2000 to assist customers in addressing  Year 2000
issues.  The Company also began offering automated tape operations in a disaster
recovery environment, which became possible with the implementation of new
technology from Storage Technology Corporation.

  As of December 31, 1996, the Company had approximately 8,300 disaster recovery
contracts in force.  These contracts generally require the payment of monthly
fees and range in duration from one to five years.  The amount of the monthly
fees depends upon the type of facilities and services selected, contract
duration and competitive factors.

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
  During 1996, for the eleventh consecutive year, the Company successfully
supported all customers who experienced computer center failures.

  Disaster Recovery Facilities.  The Company believes that it conceived and
first implemented the concept of the MegaCenter(R), a multiple hotsite and
coldsite facility that customers may use directly or remotely.  The Company
operates five MegaCenters, located in Atlanta, Chicago, Philadelphia, Scottsdale
(Arizona) and Warminster (Pennsylvania) (see Properties).  The Company believes
that its Philadelphia MegaCenter, which houses Digital, Filenet, Hewlett
Packard, Netframe, IBM mainframe, Pyramid, Sequent, Stratus and Tandem hotsites,
and mobile Hewlett Packard, IBM midrange, NCR, Sequoia, Silicon Graphics and Sun
Microsystems computer systems, is the largest commercial disaster recovery
facility in the world.

  The Company also operates MetroCenter(R) facilities in strategic locations
throughout North America to provide Work Group Recovery services, enhanced
remote operations capabilities, and recovery operations and testing support for
mobile computer systems.  MetroCenters are located in Boston, Beechwood (Ohio),
Chicago, Dallas, Denver, Herndon (Virginia), Jersey City (New Jersey), Los
Angeles, Northvale (Michigan), St. Louis, St. Paul, San Ramon (California) and
Toronto.  The St. Paul and Toronto MetroCenters also have coldsites that can be
used in conjunction with the remote operations capability.

  The Company periodically opens new facilities or expands existing facilities
to accommodate both the growth in its customer base and the addition of
different types of computer systems and service offerings.  Also, the Company
regularly upgrades its systems to offer the most advanced computer equipment
generally used by its customers.  During 1996, the Company opened two new
MetroCenters in Chicago and San Ramon (California) and in 1997 added a Denver
MetroCenter as part of the Company's acquisition of Data Assurance Corporation
(see Acquisitions and Offerings).  The Chicago MegaCenter expanded in size
during 1996 and added two new large system command centers.  In addition, during
1996, the Company expanded its large system recovery capabilities at the
Philadelphia MegaCenter, which included upgrading large mainframe processors,
adding an S/390 Parallel Enterprise Server, creating a Parallel Sysplex
environment and installing an EMC Raid-S DASD.  The Philadelphia MegaCenter also
nearly doubled its Tandem capacity and added two new RS/6000 R30 systems.  The
Company believes that these additions make the Philadelphia MegaCenter the
largest facility dedicated to disaster recovery for RS/6000 users.  The Company
continued during 1996 to expand its midrange system product offerings at various
facilities and, in addition, expanded its electronic vaulting operations, which
include remote journaling, hot storage, shadowing and customer support services.
The disk access, tape cartridge and other peripheral equipment at all facilities
were upgraded or augmented, and the capabilities of storage and retrieval
systems were increased.

  The Company believes that by operating a relatively small number of large
facilities linked by a comprehensive communications network it can provide
superior disaster recovery services in the most effective manner.  All
MegaCenters and MetroCenters are linked by a communications network that is
capable of handling a full range of digital and analog data transmission
methods, including satellite and fiber-optic applications.  The Company
regularly upgrades this network to offer the communications technology generally
used by its customers.  During 1996, the Company continued expanding its matrix-
switching capabilities to allow for more efficient and reliable communications
during customer tests and recovery operations.

  The Company markets its comprehensive disaster recovery facilities and
services on a component pricing basis, allowing each customer to select the
specific items of equipment and other recovery services needed to satisfy its
individual disaster recovery requirements.  The Company's disaster recovery
equipment is covered by maintenance contracts to assure that it is properly
functioning at all times.

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
  Planning Services.  The Company provides professional consulting and
educational services for disaster recovery and business resumption planning, not
only for computer operations, but also for company-wide purposes encompassing
all important business operations.  This includes the development of customized
disaster recovery and business resumption plans for customers.  The Company also
performs risk analyses to determine customers' exposure to the disruption or
loss of critical operations and resources, audits customers' disaster recovery
and business resumption procedures, and recommends improvements.  In addition,
the Company conducts regular seminars on disaster recovery, business resumption
and related topics.

  The Company also markets a Windows-based microcomputer software product named
CBR(R) Comprehensive Business Recovery, which automates the preparation and
maintenance of disaster recovery and business resumption plans, including
comprehensive company-wide planning capabilities.  During 1996, the Company
released an enhanced version of CBR that includes additional project plans,
screen customizations and general reporting enhancements.  The Company also
continues to support its DOS-based microcomputer disaster recovery planning
software product known as DP/90 PLUS(R).

Computer Services and Other

  Computer Services.  The Company provides remote-access computer services
primarily to software developers and government agencies and also provides
outsourcing services.  In addition, the Company provides direct marketing
computer services and automated mass mailing and printing services.  These
activities are supported at the Company's computer centers in Voorhees and
Birmingham (see Properties), which also are used to provide remote processing
services for several of the Company's investment support systems business units.

  In 1996, the Company continued to expand its services for open systems
environments, introduced a development service for performing analysis, testing
and remediation for Year 2000 projects, and upgraded mainframes to CMOS and
parallel Sysplex technology.

  Healthcare Information Systems.  Certain of the Company's healthcare 
information systems focus on hospital electronic medical records, patient
financial systems and clinical data management. Other healthcare information
systems assist health maintenance organizations (HMO's) and other companies with
high volume claims processing in reducing costs and improving service to their
customers. The Company's healthcare information systems use proprietary work-
flow management and document-imaging to increase efficiency and flexibility for
its users. The Company's principal systems of this type are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
          System          Platform     Mode of Delivery        Primary Markets
==============================================================================================
<S>                     <C>            <C>                  <C>
I-MAX(TM)               microcomputer  software license     HMO's and health insurance companies
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ChartFlo(R) 2000        UNIX server    software license     hospitals, healthcare institutions 
AccountFlo(TM)          microcomputer                       and medical clinics
- ---------------------------------------------------------
CDM(TM)                 UNIX server    software license 
                        microcomputer  
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Enterprise 2000(TM)     UNIX server    software license     hospitals, healthcare institutions 
ProcessFlo(R)           microcomputer                       and medical clinics; banks and 
                                                            other financial institutions and
                                                            government entities
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RSS/4/(TM)              microcomputer  software license     state pension administration
                                                            agencies
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
Product Development

  The investment support systems needs of the financial services industry are
complex and substantial, and continually evolve as a result of changes in laws,
introductions of new types of investment vehicles and technology and increased
competition.  For these reasons, the Company believes that it is important to
continually maintain, enhance and evolve its proprietary investment support
systems.  The Company funds most of its routine ongoing software maintenance and
support activities through the software maintenance fees paid by its investment
support systems license customers and a portion of the monthly fees paid by its
investment support systems remote processing customers.  As of December 31,
1996, the Company had in force approximately 7,400 remote processing and
software maintenance contracts for its investment support systems.

  The Company's expenditures for software development during 1996, 1995 and
1994, including amounts that were capitalized, totalled approximately
$65,101,000, $53,908,000 and $38,684,000, respectively.  These amounts do not
include routine software maintenance and support costs that are included in cost
of sales, nor do they include costs incurred in performing certain custom
development projects for individual customers in the ordinary course of
business.

  The Company has initiated a program to evaluate whether its systems are Year 
2000 compliant (meaning that they can properly handle dates in the year 2000 and
beyond). The Company believes that certain of its products are already Year 2000
compliant and will continue to evaluate its other products and, where 
appropriate, make necessary modifications. The Company currently anticipates 
that these efforts will not cause a significant increase in development 
spending.
  
  During 1997, the Company expects to develop Windows NT and UNIX versions of
many products.  These developments are examples of the Company's strategy of
using the established functionality of its existing systems to develop state-of-
the-art systems for new technological environments.

  Also in 1997, development plans for INVEST ONE include enhancements to
increase the speed of executions and to add processing features to support the
master/feeder portfolio structures.  The Company is also continuing development
of XAMIN/TM/, a client server performance measurement and analysis system, and
TradeMaster, a new trading module to ON-LINE and ON-SITE.  The Company plans
during 1997 to continue to enhance the functionality of EXPEDITER and expand its
application for users of Company and third party products.  Developments to
PHASE3 will include enhanced data distribution to provide real-time updates, SQL
capabilities and Internet access.  The Company will continue developing enhanced
functionality for its derivatives trading, foreign exchange and consolidated
risk management systems.

  The Company expands its disaster recovery services by adding new hotsites at
existing facilities, upgrading its computer equipment, developing new services
and opening new facilities.  In 1997, the Company plans to install in the
Philadelphia MegaCenter a third large system mainframe processor, expand its
midrange product lines, increase marketing efforts in Mexico and open new
MetroCenters in Seattle (Washington) and Mexico City.  Also during 1997, the
Company plans to continue expanding its electronic vaulting product offerings,
upgrading its disk storage, tape cartridge and other peripheral hotsite
equipment, and opening new MetroCenters where the demand exists.

  The Company expands its disaster recovery communications network by upgrading
its communications equipment, adding new communications capabilities and
establishing additional remote operations centers where the demand exists.  The
Company also plans during 1997 to introduce the SunGard National Network, a
nationwide managed recovery network utilizing synchronous optical (SONET)
technology that provides communications between subscriber locations and the
Company's facilities.

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
Acquisitions and Offerings

  The Company seeks to grow through internal development, the acquisition of
businesses that broaden or complement its existing product lines, and, more
recently, the acquisition of new business lines.  Since its initial public
offering in 1986, the Company has acquired twenty-eight investment support
systems businesses, eighteen disaster recovery businesses, two computer services
businesses and two healthcare information systems businesses.  Also during this
period, the Company completed two additional public offerings, a common stock
offering in 1987 and a convertible debenture offering in 1990.  The debentures
were converted into common stock in 1993.

  During 1996, the Company spent approximately $158,080,000 in cash, net of cash
acquired, to acquire five investment support systems businesses and three
disaster recovery services businesses.

  The Financial Systems Group expanded in August 1996 by acquiring SunGard
Dealing Systems Pty Limited, a business based in Sydney, Australia that provides
multicurrency front- and back-office systems for portfolio management, deal
capture and analytics to banks and brokerages located primarily in the Pacific
Rim.

  The Trading Systems Group expanded its SunGard Futures Systems business unit
in January 1997 by acquiring GMI Software, Inc., a provider of software and
services to financial institutions worldwide for the processing of exchange-
traded futures and options and other securities.

  The Trust and Shareholder Systems Group also grew by acquisition.  The Trust
and Shareholder Systems Group expanded its international operations by acquiring
in January 1996 the business of Worrall Miller & Associates Pty Ltd., a
provider of pension plan administration software in Australia, and the related
service bureau business of State Street Bank Australia in February 1996.  In
July 1996, the Company acquired NCS Financial Systems, Inc., which provides
turnkey trust accounting and corporate trust systems to banks and other
financial institutions.  The securities products business of Checkfree
Corporation was acquired in October 1996. In November 1996, the Company
purchased Corbel & Co., a provider of retirement plan document preparation
software and services and retirement plan administration software.

  The Recovery Services Group acquired several disaster recovery businesses
during 1996.  The Company purchased the North American disaster recovery
services businesses of Digital Equipment Corporation in April 1996 and the
Unisys disaster recovery services businesses of FIS, Inc. in July 1996 and
Fiserv, Inc. in December 1996.  In addition, the Recovery Services Group
acquired in early 1997 the business of Data Assurance Corporation, which
provides, among other offerings, recovery services to the credit union industry
operating on Data General platforms.

Competition

  Since most of the Company's computer services and software are specialized and
technical in nature, the various markets in which the Company competes have a
relatively small number of significant competitors.  Some of the Company's
existing competitors and some potential competitors have substantially greater
financial, technological and marketing resources than the Company.  The Company
believes that, for most of its businesses, service, quality and reliability are
more important competitive factors than price.

  In its investment support systems business, the Company competes with numerous
other data processing and financial software vendors, which may be broadly
categorized into two groups.  One group is comprised of specialized investment
support systems companies, most of which are much smaller than the Company.  The
other group is comprised of large computer services companies whose principal
businesses are not in the investment support systems area, such as Automatic
Data Processing, Inc. and First Data Corporation, both of whom are also active
acquirors.  The Company 

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
also faces competition from the internal processing and development capabilities
of its customers and prospects.

  The key competitive factors in marketing investment support systems are the
accuracy and timeliness of processed information provided to customers, features
and adaptability of the software, level and quality of customer support, level
of software development expertise and overall net cost.  The Company believes
that it competes effectively as to each of these factors and that its reputation
and experience in these markets are important competitive advantages.

  The computer disaster recovery business remains highly competitive.  The
Company's principal competitors in this business are Comdisco, Inc. and IBM
Corporation, each of which have substantially greater financial and other
resources than the Company.  The Company also faces potential competition from
major companies that have computer facilities that could be made available for
disaster recovery use.  The Company believes that it competes effectively as to
the key competitive factors in this market, namely quality of facilities, scope
and quality of services, level and quality of customer support, level of
technical expertise and price.  The Company also believes that its experience
and reputation as the innovator in this business are important competitive
advantages.

  The Company's healthcare information systems business competes primarily with
companies that provide imaging systems through vertical market resellers that
focus on hospitals and HMO's. The Company believes that it competes effectively
as to the key competitive factors in marketing work-flow management and 
document-imaging systems to healthcare institutions. These factors include
features and adaptability of the software for specific market segments,
knowledge of the healthcare industry, level and quality of customer support,
level of software development expertise and overall net cost.

Marketing

  Most of the Company's specialized computer services and software are marketed
throughout the United States, and many are marketed internationally as well.
The Company's export sales during 1996, 1995 and 1994 totalled approximately
$58,019,000, $51,273,000 and $33,505,000, respectively.  In addition, the
Company's foreign subsidiaries had sales for those years totalling approximately
$57,457,000, $43,612,000 and $26,652,000, respectively.  Export and foreign
sales during 1996 totalled $115 million and increased by 22% over 1995 export
and foreign sales.  As a percentage of total revenues, export and foreign sales
have grown from 12% in 1993 to 17% in 1996. 

  The Company develops and maintains proprietary marketing information by
identifying prospective customers through a variety of data bases and other
sources, and then canvassing the prospects by direct mail, telephone calls and
personal visits.  The Company also attempts to identify and attract customers by
conducting seminars and participating in industry conferences.  Customer
references have been an important aid in obtaining new business.

Employees

  At December 31, 1996, the Company had approximately 3,700 full-time employees.
The Company believes that its success, in part, depends on its continuing
ability to attract and retain skilled technical, marketing and management
personnel.  While data processing professionals and software developers are in
high demand, the Company believes that, to date, it has been able to attract and
retain highly qualified personnel.  None of the Company's employees is covered
by a collective bargaining contract.  The Company believes that its employee
relations are excellent.

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
Proprietary Protection

  The Company owns registered marks for the SunGard name and owns or has applied
for registration for many of its service and software names.  The Company has
few registrations of its copyrights and has no patents.  The Company believes
that registered copyrights and patents are of less significance in its business
than software development skills, technological expertise and marketing
capabilities, although the Company intends to consider the advisability of
software patents in view of ongoing developments in that area.  The Company
relies primarily on contractual restrictions and trade secret laws for the
protection of its proprietary services and software.  The Company also has
established policies requiring its personnel to maintain the confidentiality of
the Company's proprietary property.

Item 2.  Properties

  The following table indicates the location, purpose and size of the Company's
principal offices, principal computer facilities, business unit headquarters and
disaster recovery MegaCenters.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Location                           Purpose                  Square Feet
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>                                     <C>
Wayne, PA                    Executive offices of SunGard Data            44,500
   (near Philadelphia)       Systems Inc., and headquarters for
                             SunGard Recovery Services and SunGard
                             Planning Solutions.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Atlanta, GA                  Offices of SunGard Insurance Systems.        26,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aurora, CO                   Headquarters for SunGard Insurance           16,300
   (near Denver)             Systems.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Birmingham, AL               Headquarters for SunGard Asset               85,000
                             Management Systems, SunGard Employee
                             Benefit Systems and SunGard Mailing
                             Services, and related computer center
                             with two IBM-compatible mainframe
                             computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Birmingham, AL               Headquarters for MACESS Corporation.         27,200
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Canoga Park, CA              Headquarters for SunGard Government          12,000
   (near Los Angeles)        Systems.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Carshalton, England          Headquarters for Portfolio                   10,000
 (near London)               Administration Limited and related
                             computer centers with five IBM
                             midrange computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charlotte, NC                Headquarters for SunGard Trust               36,100
                             Systems and related computer center
                             with one IBM-compatible mainframe
                             computer.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chico, CA                    Headquarters for Bi-Tech Software.           25,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Chicago, IL                  Headquarters for SunGard Futures              7,000
                             Systems.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fairfield, NJ                Computer center for Shaw Data Inc.           22,000
   (near New York)           with four Bull mainframe, four
                             Hewlett Packard and one Sun
                             Microsystems computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Geneva, Switzerland          Headquarters for SunGard Investment           5,000
                             Systems SA.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hinsdale, IL                 Headquarters for SunGard Investment          24,900
   (near Chicago)            Systems.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Hopkins, MN                  Headquarters for SunGard Securities          46,200
   (near Minneapolis)        Systems and related computer center
                             with four Digital and two IBM or
                             IBM-compatible mainframe computers
                             and five UNIX servers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jacksonville, FL             Headquarters for Corbel & Co.                45,300
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
London, England              European offices of SunGard Capital          14,500
                             Markets and SunGard Futures Systems
                             and related computer center with one
                             Digital Vax computer.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

                                       15
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
         Location                           Purpose                  Square Feet
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>                                     <C>
Los Altos, CA                Headquarters for Renaissance Software.       11,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New York, NY                 Headquarters for Shaw Data Inc.              16,000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
New York, NY                 Headquarters for SunGard Capital             14,300
                             Markets.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Northbrook, IL               SunGard Recovery Services MegaCenter         84,000
   (near Chicago)            with eleven Digital, two IBM
                             mainframe and two Tandem computers,
                             and three Hewlett Packard, seven IBM
                             midrange, four Sun Microsystems and
                             two Unisys mobile computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philadelphia, PA             SunGard Recovery Services MegaCenter        230,000
                             with nine Digital, twelve Hewlett
                             Packard, six IBM or IBM-compatible
                             mainframe, three Stratus and three
                             Tandem computers, and 16 Digital,
                             nine Hewlett Packard, nineteen IBM
                             midrange, three NCR, three Sequent,
                             one Sequoia, one Silicon Graphics and
                             three Sun Microsystems mobile
                             computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rockville, MD                Headquarters for Intelus Corporation.        21,600
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Roswell, GA                  SunGard Recovery Services MegaCenter         37,800
   (near Atlanta)            with twenty-five Digital computers,
                             and three Digital, one Hewlett
                             Packard, nine IBM midrange and one
                             Sun Microsystems mobile computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
San Mateo, CA                Headquarters for SunGard Shareholder         18,200
                             Systems.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scottsdale, AZ               SunGard Recovery Services MegaCenter         13,800
                             with two Digital, four Prime and five
                             Unisys computers, and one IBM
                             midrange and one Unisys mobile
                             computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Stockholm, Sweden            Headquarters for Front Capital               40,000
                             Systems.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sydney, Australia            Australian offices of SunGard Capital         8,800
                             Markets, SunGard Dealing Systems,
                             SunGard Futures Systems and the
                             SunGard Trust and Shareholder Systems
                             Group, and related computer center
                             with one Digital Vax computer and one
                             IBM midrange computer.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Voorhees, NJ                 Headquarters for SunGard Computer            51,000
   (near Philadelphia)       Services and related computer center
                             with four IBM or IBM-compatible
                             mainframe computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Waltham, MA                  Headquarters for SunGard Brokerage           31,300
   (near Boston)             Systems and related computer center
                             with six Tandem computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Waltham, MA                  Headquarters for SunGard Global              10,600
   (near Boston)             Systems and related computer center
                             with two Digital computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Warminster, PA               SunGard Recovery Services MegaCenter         20,000
   (near Philadelphia)       with six Unisys computers.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

  The Company leases all of the offices and facilities listed in the preceding
table, with the exception of its 85,000 square-foot Birmingham facility and its
Voorhees and Warminster facilities, which are owned, and its Hopkins facility,
which consists of two connected buildings, one leased and the other owned.  The
Company also owns its MetroCenters in St. Paul, Minnesota and Northbrook,
Illinois.  The Company also leases space, primarily for sales offices, customer
support offices, MetroCenters and remote operations centers, in many locations
in the United States and internationally.  The Company believes that its leased
and owned facilities are adequate for the Company's present operations.

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
Item 3.  Legal Proceedings

  The Company is presently a party to certain lawsuits arising in the ordinary
course of its business.  The Company believes that none of its current legal
proceedings will be material to its business or financial condition.


Item 4.  Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders

  None.


Item 4.1   Certain Executive Officers of the Registrant

  The executive officers of the Company who are not also directors are listed
below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
           Name              Age       Principal Positions with the Company
================================================================================
<S>                          <C>  <C>
Kenneth R. Adams              61  Chief Executive Officer, SunGard Healthcare
                                  Information Systems Group
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bruce H. Battjer              46  Chief Executive Officer, SunGard Computer
                                  Services Group
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Andrew P. Bronstein           38  Vice President and Controller, SunGard Data
                                  Systems Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Cristobal I. Conde            36  Chief Executive Officer, SunGard Trading
                                  Systems Group
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philip L. Dowd                55  Chief Executive Officer, SunGard Trust and
                                  Shareholder Systems Group
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lawrence A. Gross             44  Vice President and General Counsel, SunGard
                                  Data Systems Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michael F. Mulholland         47  Chief Executive Officer, SunGard Recovery
                                  Services Group
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michael K. Muratore           50  Chief Executive Officer, SunGard Financial
                                  Systems Group
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donna J. Pedrick              47  Vice President-Human Resources, SunGard Data
                                  Systems Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Michael J. Ruane              43  Chief Financial Officer and Vice
                                  President-Finance, SunGard Data Systems Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Richard C. Tarbox             44  Vice President-Corporate Development, SunGard
                                  Data Systems Inc.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

  Mr. Adams has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Intelus Corporation
and of MACESS Corporation since 1995.  Before that, he was Chairman and Chief
Executive Officer of SunGard Recovery Services Inc. since 1988 and was its
President from 1990 to 1992.  From 1983 to 1988, Mr. Adams was President and a
director of SunGard Trust Systems Inc.

  Mr. Battjer has been Chief Executive Officer and a director of SunGard
Computer Services Inc. since 1995.  Before that, Mr. Battjer served in various
executive positions in SunGard's Recovery Services Group, most recently as
President of Planning Solutions.

  Mr. Bronstein has been Vice President and Controller of the Company since
1994. Before that, he was Corporate Controller since 1992. From 1985 to 1992, he
was a manager with Coopers & Lybrand L.L.P., Philadelphia, where he served as
senior manager on the Company's account and as director of the firm's
Philadelphia high technology group. Mr. Bronstein is a director and officer of
most of the Company's domestic subsidiaries.

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
  Mr. Conde has been Chief Executive Officer and a director of SunGard Systems
International Inc. (formerly named SunGard Capital Markets Inc.) since 1991.  He
was one of the founders of that company in 1983 and was its Executive Vice
President from 1983 to 1991.  Before it was acquired by the Company in 1987,
SunGard Systems International Inc., originally named Devon Systems
International, Inc., was an independent software company.  Mr. Conde is a
director and/or officer of some of the Company's domestic subsidiaries and many
of its foreign subsidiaries.

  Mr. Dowd has been Chief Executive Officer of SunGard Investment Systems Inc.
since 1990 and one of its directors since 1982.  He was President of SunGard
Investment Systems Inc. from 1982 to 1990.  Mr. Dowd is a director and/or
officer of many of the Company's investment support systems subsidiaries.

  Mr. Gross has been Vice President and General Counsel of the Company since
1986 and Secretary of the Company since 1987.  From 1979 to 1986, he was a
lawyer with Blank, Rome, Comisky & McCauley, Philadelphia, and he has
represented the Company since 1983.  Mr. Gross is a director and officer of most
of the Company's domestic subsidiaries and some of its foreign subsidiaries.

  Mr. Mulholland has been Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of SunGard
Recovery Services Inc. since 1995 and was its President and Chief Operating
Officer since 1992.  From 1987 to 1992, Mr. Mulholland served in various
executive capacities in the Company and the Recovery Services Group.

  Mr. Muratore has been Chief Executive Officer and a director of SunGard
Financial Systems Inc. since 1995.  Before that, he was Chief Executive Officer
and a director of SunGard Computer Services Inc. since 1989 and President-
Processing Divisions of SunGard Business Systems Inc. since 1990.  From 1985 to
1988, Mr. Muratore was President of the Company's Central Computer Facility,
which was consolidated with SunGard Computer Services Inc. at the end of 1988.

  Ms. Pedrick has been Vice President-Human Resources of the Company since 1988.
From 1983 to 1988, she was Director-Human Resources of the Company.

  Mr. Ruane has been Chief Financial Officer, Vice President-Finance and
Treasurer of the Company  since 1994.  From 1992 until 1994, Mr. Ruane was Chief
Financial Officer and Vice President-Finance of SunGard's Trading Systems Group.
Before that, he was Vice President-Controller of the Company from 1990 through
1992, and Corporate Controller of the Company from 1985 to 1990.  Mr. Ruane is a
director and officer of most of the Company's domestic and foreign subsidiaries.

  Mr. Tarbox has been Vice President-Corporate Development of the Company since
1987.  
                                       18
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART II


Item 5.  Market for Registrant's Common Equity and Related Stockholder
         Matters

  This information is incorporated by reference to the section entitled Stock
Information in the Company's 1996 Annual Report to Stockholders (included in
Exhibit 13.1 to this Report on Form 10-K).


Item 6.  Selected Financial Data

  This information is incorporated by reference to the section entitled Selected
Financial Information in the Company's 1996 Annual Report to Stockholders
(included in Exhibit 13.1 to this Report on Form 10-K).


Item 7.  Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
         Results of Operations

  This information is incorporated by reference to the section entitled
Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of
Operations in the Company's 1996 Annual Report to Stockholders (included in
Exhibit 13.1 to this Report on Form 10-K).


Item 8.  Financial Statements and Supplementary Data

  The financial statements of the Company, supplementary data and related
documents that are included in this Report on Form 10-K are listed in Item
14(a), Part IV, of this Report.


Item 9.  Changes In and Disagreements With Accountants on Accounting and
         Financial Disclosure

  None.

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART III


  This Part incorporates certain information from the Company's definitive proxy
statement for its 1997 Annual Meeting of Stockholders ("1997 Proxy Statement")
filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission not later than 120 days after
the end of the Company's fiscal year covered by this Report on Form 10-K.
Notwithstanding such incorporation, the sections of the Company's 1997 Proxy
Statement entitled Report of the Compensation Committee and Equity Award
Subcommittee and Performance Graph shall not be deemed to be "filed" as part of
this Report.


Item 10.  Directors and Executive Officers of the Registrant

  Information concerning the directors of the Company is incorporated by
reference to the Company's 1997 Proxy Statement including but not necessarily
limited to the section of such proxy statement entitled Election of Directors.

  Information concerning executive officers of the Company who are not also
directors is included in Item 4.1, Part I, of this Report on Form 10-K.


Item 11.  Executive Compensation

  This information is incorporated by reference to the Company's 1997 Proxy
Statement including but not necessarily limited to the section of such proxy
statement entitled Executive Compensation.


Item 12.  Security Ownership of Certain Beneficial Owners and Management

  This information is incorporated by reference to the Company's 1997 Proxy
Statement including but not necessarily limited to the section of such proxy
statement entitled Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock.


Item 13.  Certain Relationships and Related Transactions

  This information is incorporated by reference to the Company's 1997 Proxy
Statement including but not necessarily limited to the sections of such proxy
statement entitled Executive Compensation, Beneficial Ownership of Common Stock
and Election of Directors.

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
                                    PART IV


Item 14.  Exhibits, Financial Statement Schedules, and Reports on Form 8-K

  (a)(1)  Financial Statements

  The following financial statements of the Company, supplementary data and
related documents are incorporated by reference to the Company's 1996 Annual
Report to Stockholders (included in Exhibit 13.1 to this Report on Form 10-K):

  Report of Independent Accountants on Financial Statements, dated February 13,
  1997

  Consolidated Statements of Income for each of the years ended December 31,
  1996, 1995 and 1994

  Consolidated Balance Sheets as of December 31, 1996 and 1995

  Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows for each of the years ended December 31,
  1996, 1995 and 1994

  Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity for each of the years ended
  December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994

  Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

  Quarterly Financial Information (unaudited)

  (a)(2)  Financial Statement Schedules

  None.

  (a)(3)  Exhibits

  The Exhibits that are incorporated by reference in this Report on Form 10-K,
or are filed with this Report, are listed in the List of Exhibits beginning on
page 23 of this Report.  Exhibits 10.12 through 10.22 are the management
contracts and compensatory plans and arrangements that are required to be filed
as Exhibits to this Report.

  (b)    Reports on Form 8-K

  None.

                                       21
<PAGE>
 
                                   SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

                                 SunGard Data Systems Inc.

Date:   March 27, 1997          By:            /s/ James L. Mann
                                     -------------------------------------------
                                                   James L. Mann,
                                           Chairman, President and Chief 
                                                  Executive Officer

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, this report
has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
           Signature                         Capacity                  Date
           ---------                         --------                  ----     
<S>                               <C>                             <C>
     /s/ James L. Mann            Chief Executive Officer,        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------
         James L. Mann            President, and Chairman
                                  of the Board of Directors
                                  (principal executive officer)
 
    /s/ Michael J. Ruane          Chief Financial Officer and     March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------  Vice President-Finance       
        Michael J. Ruane          (principal financial officer)   
                                  
    /s/ Andrew P. Bronstein       Vice President and Controller   March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------  (principal accounting officer) 
        Andrew P. Bronstein       

    /s/ Gregory S. Bentley        Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                                
        Gregory S. Bentley

    /s/ Michael C. Brooks         Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                                 
        Michael C. Brooks

    /s/ Albert A. Eisenstat       Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                               
        Albert A. Eisenstat

    /s/ Bernard Goldstein         Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                                 
        Bernard Goldstein

      /s/ Michael Roth            Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                                      
          Michael Roth

     /s/ Malcolm I. Ruddock       Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                                
         Malcolm I. Ruddock

   /s/ Lawrence J. Schoenberg     Director                        March 27, 1997
- --------------------------------                            
       Lawrence J. Schoenberg
</TABLE> 

                                       22
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                               LIST OF EXHIBITS

Number                              Document
- ------       ------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>          <C> 
 3.1/(1)/    Amended and Restated Certificate of Incorporation of the Company.

 3.2/(2)/    Amended and Restated Bylaws of the Company.

 4.1/(2)/    Specimen Common Stock Certificate of the Company.

10.1/(2)/    Lease, dated June 18, 1981, between the Company and American
             National Bank and Trust Company of Chicago, relating to the
             Company's facility in Northbrook, Illinois ("First Northbrook
             Lease").

10.2/(3)/    Amendment to the First Northbrook Lease, dated September 16, 1986.

10.3/(4)/    Amendment to the First Northbrook Lease, dated October 14, 1987.

10.4/(5)/    Amendment to the First Northbrook Lease, dated October 1, 1988.

10.5/(5)/    Lease, dated October 1, 1988, between the Company and American
             National Bank and Trust Company of Chicago, relating to the
             Company's facility in Northbrook, Illinois ("Second Northbrook
             Lease").

10.6/(6)/    Amendment to the Second Northbrook Lease, dated September 15, 1989.

10.7/(7)/    Lease, dated April 12, 1984, between the Company and Broad and
             Noble Associates, Inc., relating to the Company's facility at 401
             North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and Amendments
             thereto, dated October 18, 1989, September 30, 1991 and November
             19, 1992 ("401 Lease").

10.8/(8)/    Amendment to 401 Lease, dated October 9, 1995.

10.9         Amendment to 401 Lease, dated December 23, 1996 (filed with this
             Report).

10.10/(1)/   Lease, dated May 19, 1989, between the Company and Northmeadow
             Associates, relating to the Company's facility in Roswell, Georgia,
             Amendment thereto, dated June 1989, and Assignment and Assumption
             thereof, dated December 31, 1990.

10.11/(9)/   Credit Agreement, dated August 29, 1996, among the Company, certain
             banks and other financial institutions and PNC Bank, National
             Association, as Agent.
 
10.12/(1)/   The Company's 1982 Incentive Stock Option Plan and Amendments
             thereto, dated January 1, 1987 and November 8, 1991./(13)/
 
 
10.13/(10)/  The Company's 1986 Stock Option Plan, Amendments thereto, dated
             January 1, 1987, November 1, 1988, February 6, 1990, November 8,
             1991, February 16, 1993 and February 13, 1995, and United Kingdom
             Addendum thereto, dated February 12, 1991./(13)/ 
 
10.14/(1)/   The Company's 1988 Nonqualified Stock Option Plan and Amendment
             thereto, dated October 30, 1990./(13)/
 
 
10.15/(6)/   The Company's 1990 Amended and Restated Restricted Stock Incentive
             Plan./(13)/
</TABLE>

                                       23
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

Number                                   Document
- ------      -------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>         <C>   

10.16/(11)/ The Company's Restricted Stock Award Plan for Outside 
            Directors./(13)/
 
10.17/(12)/ The Company's 1994 Equity Incentive Plan./(13)/
 
10.18/(8)/  The Company's 1996 Equity Incentive Plan./(13)/
 
10.19       The United Kingdom Addendum to the Company's 1996 Equity Incentive
            Plan (filed with this Report)./(13)/ 
 
10.20       Summary Description of the Company's Annual Executive Incentive
            Compensation Program (filed with this Report)./(13)/

10.21/(8)/  Summary Description of the Company's Long-Term Executive Incentive
            Compensation Plan./(13)/ 
 
10.22/(1)/  Form of Indemnification Agreement entered into by the Company with
            its directors and officers./(13)/ 

11.1        Statement Re Computation of Per Share Earnings (filed with this
            Report).

13.1        Portions of the Company's Annual Report to Stockholders for the
            fiscal year ended December 31, 1996 expressly incorporated herein by
            reference (filed with this Report).

21.1        Subsidiaries of the Registrant (filed with this Report).

23.1        Consent of Independent Accountants, regarding the Company's
            consolidated financial statements. 

27.1        Financial Data Schedule for the year ended December 31, 1996 (filed
            with this Report).
- ------------
</TABLE> 

(1) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
    Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1991 (Commission
    File No. 0-14232).

(2) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's
    Registration Statement on Form S-1 and Amendments No. 1, No. 2, and No. 3
    thereto (Registration No. 33-3181).

(3) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's
    Registration Statement on Form S-1 and Amendment No. 1 thereto (Registration
    No. 33-12536).

(4) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
    Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1987 (Commission
    File No. 0-14232).

(5) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
    Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1988 (Commission
    File No. 0-14232).

(6) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
    Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1989 (Commission
    File No. 0-14232).

(7) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
    Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1992 (Commission
    File No. 0-14232).

                                      24

                                  
<PAGE>
 
(8)  Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
     Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1995 (Commission
     File No. 0-14232).

(9)  Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's
     Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the quarterly period ended September 30,
     1996 (Commission File No. 0-14232).

(10) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
     Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1994 (Commission
     File No. 0-14232).

(11) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
     Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1990 (Commission
     File No. 0-14232).

(12) Incorporated by reference to the Exhibits filed with the Company's Annual
     Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1993 (Commission
     File No. 0-14232).

(13) Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.

                                       25
<PAGE>
 
                   INDEX OF EXHIBITS FILED WITH THIS REPORT

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

Number                               Document
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>    <C> 

10.9   Amendment to 401 Lease, dated December 23, 1996.

10.19  The United Kingdom Addendum to the Company's 1996 Equity Incentive
       Plan.(1)

10.20  Summary Description of the Company's Annual Executive Incentive
       Compensation Program.(1)

11.1   Statement Re Computation of Per Share Earnings.

13.1   Portions of the Company's Annual Report to Stockholders for the fiscal 
       year ended December 31, 1996 expressly incorporated herein by reference.

21.1   Subsidiaries of the Registrant.

23.1   Consent of Independent Accountants regarding the Company's consolidated 
       financial statements.

27.1   Financial Data Schedule for the year ended December 31, 1996.

- ---------------

(1)    Management contract or compensatory plan or arrangement.
</TABLE> 

<PAGE>
 
                                  Exhibit 10.9

                             401 NORTH BROAD STREET
                           PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA

                               AMENDMENT TO LEASE

          AMENDMENT TO LEASE made as of this _______ day of December, 1996, by
and between BROAD AND NOBLE ASSOCIATES, INC. having its principal office at 401
North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19108 ("Landlord") and SUNGARD
SERVICES COMPANY, having its principal office at 1285 Drummers Lane, Wayne,
Pennsylvania 19087 ("Tenant").

                              W I T N E S S E T H
                              - - - - - - - - - -

          WHEREAS, reference is made to the Agreement of Lease, dated September
1, 1986 for a certain space on the Mezzanine (the "Mezzanine"), and the
Agreement of Lease, dated April 12, 1984 for certain space on the sixth (6th)
floor (the "Sixth Floor"), and the Amendment to Lease, dated November 18, 1992,
for certain other space on the seventh (7th) floor (the "Seventh Floor Second
Expansion Space", and "All Remaining Seventh Floor Space"), and the Amendment to
Lease dated November 22, 1995 for certain space on the eighth (8th) floor (the
"Suite 816"), with the respective Riders attached thereto (hereinafter
collectively referred to as the "Leases"), demising certain in the building
known as 401 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (the "Building");
and

          WHEREAS, the extended term of the Leases expires on December 31, 1999;
and

          WHEREAS, Tenant finds the present space inadequate for its needs and
Landlord is willing to accommodate expansion requirements of Tenant on the
eighth floor of the Building; and

          WHEREAS, Landlord and Tenant desire to extend the Leases through
December 31, 2004 on the terms and conditions contained herein.

          NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual agreements herein
contained and for other good and valuable consideration, the receipt and
sufficiency of which are hereby acknowledged, and intending to be legally bound
hereby, the parties hereto agree as follows:

          1.  Expansion Spaces.
              ---------------- 

              (a) Landlord hereby leases to Tenant and Tenant hereby hires from
Landlord 50,000 square feet of space located on the eighth floor of 401 North
Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (the "First Expansion Space"), as shown
on the Eighth Floor plan attached hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit "A",
for a term of eight (8) years commencing January 1, 1997 and ending December 31,
2004; and (b) Landlord hereby leases to Tenant and Tenant hereby hires from
Landlord the remaining 45,786 square feet of space located on the eighth floor
of 401 North Broad Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania (the "Second Expansion
Space") as shown on the Eighth Floor plan attached hereto and made a part hereof
as Exhibit "A", for a term of seven (7) years commencing January 1, 1998 and
ending December 31, 2004, all on the same terms and conditions as are in
existence for the Sixth Floor, Mezzanine, Seventh Floor, and Suite 816 Leases
except as modified by and as specifically set forth in this Amendment.  Landlord
hereby covenants to deliver to Tenant possession of the First Expansion Space
and the Second Expansion Space, free and clear of any tenancies, commencing
January 1, 1997 and January 1, 1998, respectively.  Tenant will be responsible
for obtaining permits and approvals for all construction which will be done in
the Expansion Space to conduct Tenant's business thereon.
<PAGE>
 
     2.   Extension of Term; Basic Rent.
          ----------------------------- 

          (a) Extension of Term.  The term of the Leases covering the Sixth
              -----------------                                            
Floor, Mezzanine, Seventh Floor, and Suite 816, shall be extended for an
additional five (5) years (the "Second Extended Term").  The Second Extended
Term for the Leases shall commence on January 1, 2000 and expire on December 31,
2004.

              (i) Basic Rent.  The basic rent during the balance of the current
                  ----------
term and Second Extended Term shall be as follows:

                  A.  Mezzanine
                      ---------

                      1)  For the period commending as of the date hereof and
     ending December 31, 1999, Tenant shall pay the same amount as basic rent
     for the Mezzanine as Tenant is currently paying in accordance with the
     Leases except that there shall be no cost of living increase in such basic
     rent during the years 1997, 1998 and 1999.

                      2)  For the period commencing January 1, 2000 and ending
     December 31, 2004, Tenant shall pay for the Mezzanine the sum of
     $214,744.00 annually, payable in equal monthly installments, in advance, of
     $17,895.33 each.

                  B)  Sixth Floor
                      -----------


                      1)  For the period commencing as of the date hereof and
     ending December 31, 1999, Tenant shall pay the same amount as basic rent
     for the Sixth Floor as Tenant is currently paying in accordance with the
     Leases except that there shall be no cost of living increase in such basic
     rent during the years 1997, 1998 and 1999.

                      2)  For the period commencing January 1, 2000 and ending
     December 31, 2004, Tenant shall pay for the Sixth Floor the sum of
     $626,951.00 annually, payable in equal monthly installments, in advance, of
     $52,245.92 each.

                  C)  Seventh Floor
                      -------------

                      1)  For the period commencing as of the date hereof and
     ending December 31, 1999, Tenant shall pay the same amount as basic rent
     for the Seventh Floor as Tenant is currently paying in accordance with the
     Lease except that there shall be no cost of living increase in such basic
     rent during the years 1997, 1998 and 1999.

                      2)  For the period commencing January 1, 2000 and ending
     December 31, 2004, Tenant shall pay for the Seventh Floor the Sum of
     $631,930.00 annually, payable in equal monthly installments, in advance, of
     $52,660.83 each.

                  D)  First Expansion Space; Second Expansion Space.
                      --------------------------------------------- 

                      1)  For the First Expansion Space, for the period
     commencing January 1, 1997 and ending December 31, 2004.  Tenant shall pay
     for the First Expansion Space the sum of $237,500 annually, payable in
     equal monthly installments, in advance, of $19,791.67 each.

                                      -2-
<PAGE>
 
                    2)   For the Second Expansion Space, for the period
     commencing January 1, 1998 and ending December 31, 2004, Tenant shall pay
     for the Second Expansion Space the sum of $217,484 annually, payable in
     equal monthly installments, in advance, of $18,123.67 each.

               E)   Suite 816
                    ---------

                    1)   For the period commencing as of the date hereof and
     ending December 31, 1999, Tenant shall pay the same amount as basic rent
     for Suite 816 as Tenant is currently paying in accordance with the Leases
     except that there shall be no cost of living increase in such basic rent
     during the years 1997, 1998 and 1999.  Commencing January 1, 2000 and
     ending December 31, 2004, Tenant shall pay the sum of $6,812.00 annually,
     payable in monthly installments, in advance, of $567.67 each.

          (b) Each monthly payment of basic rent will be made on the first day
of each and every calendar month during the Second Extended Term.  Tenant will
pay said rent to the Landlord, at the office of Landlord as indicated above or
to such other part or to such other address as Landlord may designate from time
to time by written notice to Tenant.

     3.   Repairs and Improvements.
          ------------------------ 

          (a) Landlord, at Landlord's sole cost and expense, shall be
responsible for and shall perform the following repairs, replacements,
construction, work and maintenance at the Building and the Leased Premises all
in accordance with the following terms and conditions (collectively "Repairs and
Improvements").

              (i)   Within thirty (30) days of the date of this Amendment,
Landlord, at Landlord's sole cost and expense, shall prepare or cause to be
prepared and submitted to Tenant for Tenant's approval, by a reputable asbestos
contractor, approved in writing by Tenant, a comprehensive plan, approved in
writing as to scope of work for the removal of all asbestos in the Building.
Within thirty (30) days of the date such plan for asbestos removal is delivered
to and approved by Tenant, Landlord shall let such work out for bid by
contractors approved by Tenant and/or Tenant's consulting engineer. Tenant shall
have final approval of all final plans, specifications and materials of such
asbestos removal and such removal shall be completed by Landlord, at Landlord's
sole cost and expense, as soon as practicable but in no event later than
December 31, 1997.

              (ii)  Within ninety (90) days of the date of this Amendment,
Landlord, at Landlord's sole cost and expense, shall prepare or cause to be
prepared and submitted to Tenant for Tenant's written approval, by a reputable
smoke detection company, a comprehensive early warning smoke detection system
program, compliant with NFPA, the National Electric Code and all other federal,
state and local bodies having jurisdiction over the Building with respect to
fire, smoke and safety systems, for all floors currently tenant occupied in the
Building and for the installation of said system as and when floors not
currently occupied are occupied in the future. Such system shall contain fully
programmable panels installed both in the Building and the Leased Premises and
such smoke detection system shall be monitored twenty-four (24) hours a day,
three hundred sixty-five (365) days a year by a professional, reputable offsite
security agency. All spaces in the Building which are not leased or occupied as
of the date hereof (whether or not such space or spaces have previously been
leased, occupied or built out) shall either be fully alarmed in accordance with
the program approved by Tenant or shall be gutted, cleared and maintained in
broom clean condition. Within thirty (30) days such plan is delivered to and
approved in writing by Tenant, Landlord shall let such work out for bid by
contractors approved by Tenant and/or

                                      -3-
<PAGE>
 
Tenant's consulting engineer and Tenant shall have final approval of all final
plans, specifications, materials and scope of such work.  All work to be
performed under this Paragraph shall be completed by Landlord, at Landlord's
sole cost and expense, as soon as practicable but in no event later than
December 31, 1997.

              (iii) Within thirty (30) days of the date of this Amendment,
Landlord, at Landlord's sole cost and expense, shall prepare or cause to be
prepared and submitted to Tenant for Tenant's written approval, by a reputable
roofing company approved by Tenant, a comprehensive plan to replace the roof of
the Building.  The scope of the work, the contractor, materials and phasing of
the work shall be approved by Tenant in writing.  The roof, when completed,
shall contain a full ten (10) year warranty as to materials and labor and a
maintenance program shall be put into place by Landlord and approved in writing
by Tenant so that the roof will be maintained free of leaks throughout the term
of the Leases.  The roof shall be completely replaced, at Landlord's sole cost
and expense, as soon as practicable but in no event later than December 31,
1997.

              (iv)  Within thirty (30) days of the date of this Amendment,
Landlord shall prepare or cause to be prepared and submit to Tenant for Tenant's
prior written approval, by a reputable elevator company, a plan for the
replacement of the entire elevator systems in the shaft location of SunGard's
choice not including rooftop machinery or the steel railing system, unless the
railing system or parts thereof require repair or replacement, as determined by
the approved elevator company. For every 100,000 square feet of space in the
Building leased by Landlord after the date hereof, whether or not such leased
space is contiguous, excluding the Eighth Floor, Landlord shall also replace an
additional elevator system until all lobby elevator systems have been replaced
in full. Tenant shall approve in writing, the plans and specifications of the
work, the scope of the work, contractor, phasing of the work and all materials
to be used in replacing the elevator systems as described herein. Tenant, at
Tenant's sole cost, will refurbish the interior cab of each elevator as each
elevator system is replaced. The initial elevator system of SunGard's choice to
be replaced by Landlord pursuant to this Paragraph shall be completed by
Landlord, at Landlord's sole cost and expense, as soon as practicable but in no
event later than December 31, 1997.

          (b) Landlord shall prepare and submit for Tenant's approval a plan to
maintain all systems, items repaired and replaced pursuant to the foregoing
Paragraphs.  All work to be performed by Landlord or Landlord's contractors
hereunder shall be performed in a good and workmanlike manner, all contracts for
the work shall be approved in writing by Tenant and Tenant and Tenant's agents
and consultants shall have the right to inspect all work as it progresses and to
approve or disapprove same.

     4.   Financing of Repairs and Improvements.
          ------------------------------------- 

          (a) Tenant agrees to finance for Landlord an amount up to the sum of
Two Million Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,400,000) for the sole purposes of
paying the actual costs of performing and installing the Repairs and
Improvements to the Premises and Building.  Tenants shall lend to Landlord such
costs by paying the contractors, suppliers or consultants designated by
Landlord, from time to time during the progress of the Repairs and Improvements
(but not more than once per month) within thirty (30) days after receipt from
Landlord of:

              (i)   supporting documentation thereof approved by Tenant,
accompanied by a certification of the architect, contractor or other consultant
supervising the work, stating that the portion of the work for which Landlord is
applying for payment has been completed substantially in accordance with the
plans and specifications approved by Tenant;

                                      -4-
<PAGE>
 
              (ii)   itemized bills for labor and materials constituting
portions of the Repairs and Improvements submitted by the contractors, suppliers
or consultants of the services or materials rendered, such bills shall have been
marked "paid" by the contractor, supplier or consultant;

              (iii)  waivers of liens evidencing the payment of any prior work
performed and materials supplied for which Landlord previously applied for
payment, executed and acknowledged by the contractors, suppliers and consultants
which are entitled by statute to file mechanics' liens; and

              (iv)   with respect to the final request for payment, "as-built"
plans and specifications for such Repairs and Improvements.

          (b) Interest shall accrue on the outstanding principal balance
advanced by Tenant to Landlord hereunder at the "prime rate" or "prime lending
rate" as those terms are hereinafter defined.  Interest shall be calculated on
the basis of a three hundred sixty (360) day year and shall be payable monthly
in arrears on the first day of each month, based on the actual number of days
elapsed at the per annum rate specified above.  The term "prime rate" or "prime
lending rate" shall be the rate of interest announced in The Wall Street Journal
on December 31 of each year.  Changes in the interest rate, hereunder, shall be
effective on January 1, of each year amounts advanced by Tenant to Landlord are
outstanding.

          (c) Landlord shall only be permitted to draw advance from Tenant from
January 1, 1997 through December 31, 1997 up to a maximum amount of Two Million
Four Hundred Thousand Dollars ($2,400,000).

          (d) Advances made by Tenant to Landlord shall be repaid monthly
commencing January 1, 1998 and thereafter through December 31, 2004 based upon a
seven year amortization schedule.

          (e) Commencing January 1, 1998 and monthly thereafter through December
31, 2004, Tenant shall receive and be entitled to set-off against basic rent,
the monthly amount of principal and interest due from Landlord hereunder until
said amount is paid in full.

     5.   Right of First Refusal to Purchase Building.  If, during the term of
          -------------------------------------------                         
this Lease, Landlord shall receive a bona fide offer acceptable to it for the
purchase of the Building, Tenant shall have a continuing right to purchase the
same upon the terms and conditions as are contained in the said offer, such
right to be exercised in the manner provided for herein.  Landlord shall notify
Tenant in writing of the receipt of such offer and terms thereof, the notice to
be accompanied by an agreement of sale embodying the terms of the offer, and
within ten (10) business days after the receipt of such notice (such time to be
of the essence) Tenant shall, if it desires to purchase the Building, deliver to
Landlord Tenant's written agreement legally binding Tenant to make such purchase
on such terms, and shall further deliver to Landlord the payment, if any, on
account of the sale in the amount specified in such offer.  Tenant's failure to
make and deliver such agreement and payment within such ten (10) business days
shall result in the termination of this Right of First Refusal and Landlord may
consummate the transaction in accordance with the terms of the bona fide offer
submitted to Tenant.  However, if settlement under the bona fide offer is not
completed within three (3) months from the date such offer is submitted to
Tenant, Landlord shall be obligated to follow the procedures and provisions of
this Paragraph 5 with respect to any subsequent bona fide offers to purchase the
Building acceptable to Landlord.

     6.   Renewal Options.  Provided Tenant is not in default hereunder, Tenant,
          ---------------                                                       
upon not less than twelve (12) months prior written notice in each instance,
shall have the option to renew the Leases for

                                      -5-
<PAGE>
 
three (3) additional terms (the "Additional Terms") of five (5) years each.  The
terms and conditions of each Additional Term shall remain unchanged except for
the basic rent which shall be determined as follows:

              (i)   Commencing January 1, 2005 and commencing on the first day
of each Additional Term thereafter, Tenant shall pay adjusted basic rent
("Adjusted Basic Rent") for the Leased Premises in the amounts determined in
accordance with the following provisions.

                    1)  Within three hundred (300) and two hundred fifty-five
(255) days prior to January 1, 2005 (or the completion of ten (10) and fifteen
(15) years after the commencement of the Second Extended Term), Landlord and
Tenant shall agree on a new monthly basic rent for the Leased Premises, using,
as a guide, rental values for comparable buildings within a radius of one mile
of 401 North Broad Street, which basic rent, if agreement is reached, shall be
the new basic rent for the period following December 31, 2004, or the subheading
of five (5) years of the Additional Term. If the parties are unable to agree on
a basic rent within three hundred (300) and two hundred fifty-five (255) days
prior to the beginning of the basic rent for the period for which rent is then
being determined, the parties agree to submit this issue of basic rent to
appraisal by Landlord's and Tenant's appraisers holding MAI designations, as
follows, Landlord and Tenant shall each appoint an MAI appraiser to appraise the
basic rent of the Leased Premises for the relevant period. The appraisers shall
consult with each other and attempt to produce an agreed, joint written
appraisal. If the appraisers determine that they are unable to agree on the
basic rent of the Leased Premises, they shall render separate written appraisals
and then jointly select a third appraiser who holds an MAI designation who shall
be charged with rendering a final, binding written appraisal of the basic rent;
provided, however, that the value established by the third appraiser shall not
be less than the lower of the two prior appraisals or higher than the higher of
the prior two appraisals. In the case of appraisals rendered for any Additional
Term, the appraisers shall complete all appraisals no later than one hundred
eighty-five (185) days before the expiration of the then current term. The
appraisers shall be guided by the basic rent of "comparable buildings",
"Comparable buildings" is intended to mean those buildings similar in quality,
character, age and nature to the present building containing the Leased Premises
located within one mile radius of the Building, containing approximately the
same space as the Leased Premises with typical truck access and loading docks,
high quality but in all respects standard features such as HVAC, electric,
plumbing, telephone and office area finishes. The appraisers shall not consider
the value of Tenant's over-improvements and specialized business build-out and
finishes in their appraisals. The joint, agreed decision of the original
appraisers or, if there is no agreed appraisal, the decision of the third
appraiser, shall be final and binding upon the parties. In no event shall the
basic rent for January 1, 2005, through the end of the fifth (5th) year of any
five (5) year Additional Term be lower than the highest basic rent for any
period. Should the appraisal process for any rental period after January 1,
2005, of the term result in a decision which comes after the beginning of a new
rental period, an increase, if any, in the monthly basic rent shall be
retroactive to the month in which the new period began. During the pendency of
appraisal, Tenant shall continue to make monthly payments and shall make up any
difference resulting from an increase in basic rent within ten (10) days of
Landlord's written request. Should the appraisal decision regarding any
Additional Term basic rent be delayed because of Landlord fault to a date less
than one hundred eighty-five (185) days before the expiration of the then
current term or Additional Term, Tenant shall have the right to exercise its
renewal options as described in this Paragraph on the then current terms and
conditions, including, without limitation, the then current basic rent and the
further right to rescind such election by written notice to Landlord within five
(5) business days of receipt of the final appraisal decision.

     7.   Operating Expenses.  With respect to the Eighth Floor only, Paragraphs
          ------------------                                                    
3(b) and 3(c) of the Leases are hereby amended to provide that the Base Real
Estate Taxes and Base Operating Charges

                                      -6-
<PAGE>
 
for (a) the First Expansion Space shall each be based on the calendar year 1997;
and (b) the Second Expansion Space shall each be based on the calendar year
1998.  The percentage of increases allocable to the First Expansion Space will
be 3.87% and the percentage of increase is allocable to the Second Expansion
Space will be 3.54%.  The method of computation will be the same as stated in
Paragraphs 3(b) and 3(c) of the Leases.

     8.   Captions.  The captions contained herein are not a part of this
          --------                                                       
Amendment and are included solely for the convenience of the parties hereto.

     9.   No Other Charges.  Except as herein expressly modified,all of the
          ----------------                                                 
terms, covenants and conditions of the Leases shall remain in full force and
effect.

     IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have duly executed this Amendment to
Lease as of the day and year first above written.

                                        BROAD AND NOBLE ASSOCIATES, INC. a
                                        ---------------------------- corporation


                                       By: /s/ Allan Stillman
                                          -------------------------------------
                                             Title:  Pres.


                                       Attest: /s/ Phyllis Docket
                                              ---------------------------------
                                                 Title:  Comptroller

                                                   [CORPORATE SEAL]



                                        SUNGARD SERVICES COMPANY


                                       By: /s/ William J. Flounders
                                          -------------------------------------
                                              Title:  SVP


                                       Attest: /s/ Debra Stehman
                                              ---------------------------------
                                                  Title:  VP-Controller

                                                   [CORPORATE SEAL]

                                      -7-

<PAGE>
 
                                 EXHIBIT 10.19

                                   Addendum
                                      to
                           SunGard Data Systems Inc.
                          1996 Equity Incentive Plan

                            Rules for UK employees

In pursuance of its powers under the 1996 Equity Incentive Plan ("the Plan") 
the Compensation Committee ("the Committee") of the Board of Directors of 
SunGard Data Systems Inc. ("the Company") had adopted these rules for the 
purposes of operating the Plan with regard to such options to which these rules 
are expressed to extend at the time when the option is granted. Unless the 
context requires otherwise, all expressions used in the rules have the same 
meaning as in the Plan. The Plan, as supplemented by these rules, is referred to
hereinafter as "this Sub-Plan". For the avoidance of doubt, the terms of the 
Plan (insofar as they have not been disapplied by Rule 13 or these rules) shall 
form part of the Sub-Plan.

1.  The Common Shares over which options may be granted under the Sub-Plan form
    part of the ordinary share capital (as defined in section 832(1) Income and
    Corporation Taxes Act 1988) ("ICTA 1988") of the Company and must at all
    times, (including the time of grant and the time of exercise) comply with
    the terms of the Plan and comply with the requirements of paragraphs 10 to
    14 Schedule 9 ICTA 1988.

2.  The companies participating in this Sub-Plan are the Company and all
    companies controlled by the Company within the meaning of section 840 ICTA
    1988 ("Subsidiaries") and which have been nominated by the Committee to
    participate for the time being in this Sub-Plan.

3.  The Common Shares are reported by NASDAQ.

4.  The Common Shares to be acquired on exercise of the option in accordance 
    with the terms of the Plan will:

    a)  be fully paid up;

    b)  be not redeemable;

    c)  not be subject to any restrictions other than restrictions which attach
        to all shares of stock of the same class. For the purpose of this
        clause, the term restrictions includes restrictions which are deemed to
        attach to the shares under any contract, agreement, arrangement of
        condition as referred to in paragraph 13 Schedule 9 ICTA 1988. Provided
        that such restrictions:

        i)  be objective, specified at the date of grant and set out in full in,
            or details given with, the Award; and

        ii) be such that rights to exercise such Option after the fulfillment or
            attainment of any conditions and limitations so specified shall not
            be dependent upon the further discretion of any person; and

<PAGE>
 
                (iii)   not be capable of amendment, variation or waiver unless
                        an event occurs which causes the Committee to consider
                        that a waived, varied or amended condition would be a
                        fairer measure of performance and would be no more
                        difficult to satisfy.

5.      The Company has only one class of Common shares.

6.      No option will be granted to any employee or director under this Sub-
        Plan, or where an option has previously been granted no option shall be
        exercised by an option-holder if at that time he has, or any time within
        the preceding 12 months has had, a material interest for the purposes of
        Schedule 9 ICTA 1988 in either the Company being a close company (within
        the meaning of Chapter I of Part XI of ICTA 1988) or in a company being
        a close company which has control (with the meaning of section 840 ICTA
        1988) of the Company or in a company being a close company and a member
        of a consortium (as defined in section 187(7) ICTA 1988) which owns the
        Company. In determining whether a company is a close company for this
        purpose section 414(1)(a) ICTA 1988 (exclusion of companies not resident
        in the United Kingdom) and section 415 ICTA 1988 (exclusion of certain
        companies with listed shares) shall be disregarded.

7.      No option will be granted to an employee or director under this Sub-Plan
        in relation to which exercise price is manifestly less than the fair
        market value (as defined in Section 187(2) ICTA 1988) of the Company's
        Common Shares on the date of grant of the option and the exercise price
        shall be stated at the date of grant of the option and determined in
        accordance with Section 11.9 of the Plan (provided that this method of
        determination is acceptable to the Shares Valuation Division of the
        Inland Revenue) or otherwise determined in advance with the agreement of
        the Shares Valuation Division.

8.      (a)     Any alteration of amendment of this Sub-Plan shall not have
                effect unless approved by the Board of Inland Revenue. The
                Company undertakes to provide details thereof to the Board of
                Inland Revenue without delay for this purpose.

        (b)     For the purposes of this Sub-Plan no adjustment pursuant to any
                of the provisions of the Plan shall be made to any option which
                has been granted under the Sub-Plan unless such adjustment would
                be permitted under the Plan and under Paragraph 29 Schedule 9
                ICTA 1988 and where so permitted no such adjustment shall take
                effect unless the approval of the Board of Inland Revenue shall
                have been obtained thereto.

9.      For the avoidance of doubt it is stated that the Company is the grantor 
        as defined in paragraph 1(1) Schedule 9 ICTA 1988.

10.     Any option granted to an employee or director under this Sub-Plan shall
        be limited to take effect so that immediately following such grant the
        aggregate market value of shares (determined at the time prescribed by
        paragraph 28 Schedule 9 ICTA 1988 and calculated in accordance with the
        provisions of the said Schedule 9) wich he can acquire under this Sub-
        Plan and any other scheme or schemes, not being a savings-related share
        option scheme, approved under this said Schedule 9 and established by
        the grantor or by any associated company (as defined in section 416 ICTA
        1988) of the grantor (and not exercised) shall not exceed (Pounds)30,000
        or such other limit as may be prescribed from time to time provided
        always that the extent that any grant of
<PAGE>
 
     any option exceeds the limit prescribed in this Rule 10, it shall be deemed
     to comprise such number of shares as may when aggregated with any other
     shares remaining issuable or transferable as provided in this Rule 10 in
     respect of options granted to that employee or director be equal to, but
     not exceed, such limit, provided always that this limit shall not exceed
     the limitations set out in the Plan.

11.  An option will be granted under this Sub-Plan to an employee (other than
     one who is a director) or a full-time director of the Company or a company
     participating in this Sub-Plan. For this purpose, a full-time director is
     one who is required to work at least 25 hours a week excluding meal-times
     in the business of the Company or its subsidiaries.

12.  The Company shall not later than 30 days upon actual receipt of the written
     notice of exercise of an option given in accordance with the provisions of
     the Plan together with the payment of the aggregate exercise price in
     respect of Common Shares to be issued pursuant to the exercise of an
     option, allot and issue credited as fully paid to the Optionee and cause to
     be registered in his name the number of Common Shares specified in the
     written notice.

13.  For the purposes of the Sub-Plan, the following parts of the Plan shall be 
     disregarded:

     (a)     the second sentence of Section 5.1 (d);
     (b)     all words after "of SunGard" in line three of Section 5.1(e);
     (c)     Section 5.1(f);
     (d)     Section 5.2; 
     (e)     Section 5.3;
     (f)     Section 5.4;
     (g)     Section 6.1(b) and (c);
     (h)     Section 6.2(b), (c), (d) and (e);
     (i)     Section 6.3(a)(2) and (3);
     (j)     the last two sentences of Section 7.3; and 
     (k)     Section 11.8


The undersigned certifies that this addendum was duly adopted by the 
Compensation Committee of the Board of Directors of SunGard Data Systems Inc.
on the 14th day of February 1997.


                                             
                                        -------------------------------------
                                        Lawrence A. Gross, Secretary of 
                                        SunGard Data Systems Inc.




<PAGE>
 
                                 Exhibit 10.20


                           Sungard Data Systems Inc.
                      Summary Description of The Company's
                Annual Executive Incentive Compensation Program


SunGard Data Systems Inc. has an annual executive incentive compensation ("EIC")
program for its executive officers and other key management employees.  The
principal purpose of this program is to link a significant portion of annual
cash compensation to financial results and other goals, so as to reward
successful performance.

Each participant's EIC program contains certain financial and/or business goals
as targets.  These targets are established at the beginning of each year and
take into account the Company's overall financial and business goals for the
year.  Before 1996, the EIC program for corporate officers generally had been
based upon targeted rates of increase in the Company's net income over the
previous year and, sometimes, additional performance goals specific to the
officer's function.  Beginning in 1996, however, the performance criterion for
corporate officers was changed to growth in earnings per share rather than
growth in net income.  For the chief executive officers of the Company's
operating business groups, the EIC program targets generally are based upon
budgeted operating income and average number of days sales outstanding in
accounts receivable of the business units managed by the group chief executive
officers.  For other key management employees, the EIC program targets are based
upon financial and/or business goals related to the business units they manage
and, sometimes, additional performance goals specific to their individual
functions.

Generally, the EIC programs contain an incentive compensation amount related to
each target.  If the target is achieved, then the related incentive compensation
amount is earned.  For most financial goals, there are three to four designated
targets.  If the actual result is less than the minimum target, then no
incentive amount is earned.  If the actual result is between two targets, then
the incentive amount earned is calculated by interpolation.  If the actual
result is more than the maximum target, then the incentive amount earned is
equal to the amount related to the maximum target plus, in some cases, an
additional incentive amount based upon the extent to which the maximum target
was exceeded.

<PAGE>
 
                                  EXHIBIT 11.1


                           SUNGARD DATA SYSTEMS INC.
              STATEMENT RE COMPUTATION OF PER SHARE EARNINGS/(1)/
                    (in thousands, except per share amounts)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                      Year Ended December 31,               
                                                            ------------------------------------------
                                                             1996               1995             1994     
                                                            -------            ------           ------     
<S>                                                         <C>                <C>              <C>        
PRIMARY:                                                                                                   
                                                                                                           
  Average common shares outstanding ......................   42,088            38,812           37,670     
                                                                                                           
  Dilutive stock options, net                                                                              
     of treasury shares ..................................      920               824              828     
                                                             ------           -------          -------     
                                                                                                           
  Adjusted common shares outstanding .....................   43,008            39,636           38,498     
                                                             ======           =======          =======     
                                                                                                           
  Net income .............................................  $34,901           $48,672          $43,087     
                                                            =======           =======          =======     
                                                                                                           
  Net income per common share ............................  $  0.81           $  1.23          $  1.12     
                                                            =======           =======          =======     
                                                                                                           
FULLY DILUTED:                                                                                             
                                                                                                           
  Average common shares outstanding ......................   42,088            38,812           37,670     
                                                                                                           
  Dilutive stock options, net                                                                              
     of treasury shares ..................................      973               856              832      
                                                             ------           -------          -------     
                                                                                                           
  Adjusted common shares outstanding .....................   43,061            39,668           38,502     
                                                             ======           =======          =======     
                                                                                                           
  Net income .............................................   34,901           $48,672          $43,087     
                                                             ======           =======          =======     
                                                                                                           
                                                                                                           
  Net income per common share ............................  $  0.81           $  1.23          $  1.12       
                                                            =======           =======          =======     
 
</TABLE> 


(1)  All shares and per share amounts have been adjusted for a July 1995 
     two-for-one stock split.


<PAGE>

                                 EXHIBIT 13.1
            Portions of the Company's Annual Report to Stockholders
                  for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1996

                           [BAR GRAPHS APPEAR HERE]

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
Revenues in Millions of Dollars
<S>              <C> 
92 ............. 325
93 ............. 381
94 ............. 437        
95 ............. 533
96 ............. 670

<CAPTION> 

Pro Forma Net Income in Millions of Dollars/(1)/
<S>              <C> 
92 ............. 25.8
93 ............. 35.1
94 ............. 43.1       
95 ............. 52.9
96 ............. 68.4

<CAPTION> 

Pro Forma Fully Diluted Net Income per Share in Dollars/(1)/
<S>              <C> 
92 .............  .79
93 .............  .95
94 ............. 1.12       
95 ............. 1.33     
96 ............. 1.59
</TABLE> 


<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       Selected financial information

       (In thousands, except per share amounts)                1992         1993         1994         1995          1996
       <S>                                                <C>          <C>          <C>          <C>           <C> 
       INCOME STATEMENT DATA /(2)(3)/
         Revenues                                         $ 324,570    $ 381,372    $ 437,190    $ 532,628     $ 670,309
         Income from operations                              50,336       59,645       70,326       80,076        59,786
         Net income                                          25,808       38,474       43,087       48,672        34,901
         Fully diluted  net income per share                    .79         1.04         1.12         1.23          0.81
         Pro forma net income /(1)/                          25,808       35,103       43,087       52,910        68,369
         Pro forma fully diluted net income per share /(1)/     .79          .95         1.12         1.33          1.59
       BALANCE SHEET DATA
         Total assets                                     $ 365,580    $ 418,135    $ 485,740    $ 579,734     $ 679,318
         Total short-term and long-term debt                 89,790        6,523       10,567       10,002        39,346
         Stockholders' equity                               189,899      316,960      359,292      422,292       464,638

</TABLE> 
 
      (1) Excludes all items described in footnote 2.
      (2) 1993 includes after-tax gain on sale of product line of $3,371, or
          $0.09 per share on a fully diluted basis. 1995 includes merger costs
          of $4,238, or $0.10 per share on a fully diluted basis. 1996 includes
          charges for purchased in-process research and development and other
          charges of $51,083 ($33,468 after tax), or $0.78 per share on a fully
          diluted basis. See Note 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial
          Statements.
      (3) All per share amounts have been adjusted for a July 1995 two-for-one
          stock split. See Note 10 of Notes to Consolidated Financial
          Statements.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------


<PAGE>
 
          FINANCIAL TABLE OF CONTENTS









          26   Quarterly Financial Information

          26   Stock Information

          27   Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and 
               Results of Operations

          31   Consolidated Statements of Income

          32   Consolidated Balance Sheets

          33   Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

          34   Consolidated Statement of Stockholders' Equity

          36   Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements

          42   Report of Independent Accountants



                                      25.
                                      
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 


QUARTERLY FINANCIAL INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)


(In thousands, except per share amounts)        First       Second        Third      Fourth
                                              Quarter      Quarter      Quarter     Quarter
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                           <C>          <C>          <C>         <C>  
1996: (1)
   Revenues...................................$149,798    $155,568     $171,646    $193,297
   Income (loss) before income taxes..........  24,592      27,258      (14,078)     25,797
   Net income (loss)..........................  14,632      16,219      (10,465)     14,515
   Fully diluted net income (loss)
      per common share(3).....................     .34         .38         (.24)        .34


1995: (2)
   Revenues...................................$121,490    $125,119     $132,114    $153,905
   Income before income taxes.................  18,850      20,707       21,292      24,263
   Net income.................................  11,121      12,218       12,008      13,325
   Fully diluted net income
      per common share(3).....................    .29          .32          .31         .31

</TABLE> 

(1) Includes third-quarter charges for purchased in-process research and
development and other charges of $44,032 ($28,287 after tax), or $0.66 per share
on a fully diluted basis, and fourth-quarter charges for purchased in-process
research and development of $7,051 ($5,181 after tax), or $0.12 per share on a
fully diluted basis.
(2) Includes third-quarter merger costs of $1,351, or $0.03 per share on a fully
diluted basis, and fourth-quarter merger costs of $2,887, or $0.07 per share on
a fully diluted basis.
(3) All per share amounts have been adjusted for a July 1995 two-for-one stock
split.



STOCK INFORMATION


The common stock of SunGard Data Systems Inc. trades on the National Market of
The Nasdaq Stock Market and the London Stock Exchange under the symbol SNDT. At
March 3, 1997, the Company had approximately 2,600 stockholders of record. No
dividends have ever been paid on the Company's common stock. The Company's
policy is to retain earnings for use in its business.
     The following table indicates high and low sales prices per share of the
Company's common stock, as reported on Nasdaq. All prices reflect the Company's
July 1995 two-for-one stock split.

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

Calendar Year 1996
<S>                              <C>               <C> 
First Quarter .................. $38               $27-1/2 
Second Quarter .................  41                31-1/4 
Third Quarter ..................  46-3/4            35-3/8 
Fourth Quarter .................  47-1/2            38-1/4 

Calendar Year 1995
First Quarter .................. $24-3/8           $17-3/4 
Second Quarter .................  26-3/4            21-5/8 
Third Quarter ..................  31-3/4            26-1/8 
Fourth Quarter .................  32-1/2            25-1/4 
</TABLE> 

The last sale price of the Company's common stock on March 3, 1997, as reported
on Nasdaq, was $48-1/4 per share.


                                                            
                                      26.
<PAGE>
 
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS


Statements about the Company's expectations and all other statements in this
Annual Report other than historical facts are forward-looking statements. Since
these statements involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at
any time, the Company's actual results could differ materially from expected
results. The Company derives most of its forward-looking statements from its
operating budgets and forecasts, which are based upon many detailed assumptions.
While the Company believes that its assumptions are reasonable, it cautions that
there are inherent difficulties in predicting certain important factors,
especially the timing and magnitude of software sales, the timing and scope of
technological advances, the performance of recently acquired businesses, the
prospects for future acquisitions, and the overall condition of the financial
services industry. These factors, as and when applicable, are discussed in the
Company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1996, a copy of which may be obtained
from the Company without charge.

RESULTS OF OPERATIONS

The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, certain amounts
included in the Consolidated Statements of Income of SunGard Data Systems Inc.,
the relative percentage that those amounts represent to consolidated revenues
(unless otherwise indicated), and the percentage change in those amounts from
period to period.

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

         
                                            Year Ended December 31,       Percent of Revenues /(1)/        Percent Increase
                                                (in millions)              Year Ended December 31,         (Decrease) /(1)/
                                                                                                             1996     1995
                                            1996      1995     1994       1996       1995      1994       vs.1995  vs.1994
                                          -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Revenues                       
<S>                                       <C>       <C>       <C>     <C>            <C>       <C>         <C>        <C>          
   Investment support systems .......     $412.3    $330.6    $271.1       61%        62%        62%        25%        22%
   Disaster recovery services .......      193.8     162.3     138.7       29         31         32         19         17
   Computer services and other.......       64.2      39.7      27.4       10          7          6         62         45
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------
                                          $670.3    $532.6    $437.2      100%       100%       100%        26         22
                                          ==========================================================
Costs and Expenses             
   Cost of sales and           
      direct operating ..............     $291.6    $234.0    $194.8       43%        44%        45%        25%        20%
   Sales, marketing and        
      administration ................      135.4     109.2      89.6       20         21         20         24         22
   Product development ..............       61.5      50.4      36.8        9          9          8         22         37
   Depreciation .....................       37.3      30.8      24.3        6          6          6         21         27
   Amortization .....................       33.6      23.9      21.4        5          4          5         41         12
   Purchased in-process research
      and development and
      other charges .................       51.1       4.2        --        8          1         --         --         --
                                          ----------------------------------------------------------
                                          $610.5    $452.5    $366.9       91%        85%        84%        35         23
                                          ==========================================================
Operating Income
   Investment support
      systems/(2)/ ..................     $ 68.1    $ 51.7    $ 43.9       17%        16%        16%        32%        18%
   Disaster recovery services/(2)/...       42.6      34.9      29.2       22         22         21         22         20
   Computer services
      and other/(2)/ ................        9.5       5.1       4.8       15         13         18         86          6
   Corporate administration .........       (9.3)     (7.4)     (7.6)      (1)        (1)        (2)        26         (3)
                                          ----------------------------
                                           110.9      84.3      70.3       17         16         16         32         20
   Purchased in-process research
      and development and
      other charges .................      (51.1)     (4.2)       --       (8)        (1)        --         --         --
                                          ----------------------------
                                          $ 59.8    $ 80.1    $ 70.3        9         15         16        (25)        14
                                          ============================
</TABLE> 
(1) All percentages are calculated using actual amounts rounded to the nearest
    $1,000. 
(2) Percent of revenues is calculated as a percent of investment support
    systems, disaster recovery services, and computer services and other
    revenues, respectively.


                                      27.
<PAGE>
 
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS  continued


INCOME FROM OPERATIONS

During 1996, the Company recorded $44.5 million of charges to operations ($0.64
per fully diluted share) for purchased in-process research and development
associated with the acquisitions of NCS Financial Systems, Inc. and two small
investment support systems businesses. The Company recorded $6.6 million of
other charges ($0.14 per fully diluted share) primarily associated with the
impairment of the remaining intangible assets related to a business acquired
more than ten years ago, the principal markets of which were state and municipal
governments and thrift institutions. The following discussion of income from
operations excludes these charges, as well as merger costs of $4.2 million
recorded during 1995.

   Investment Support Systems (ISS)

The Company's ISS business is comprised of more than thirty operating units of
various size and complexity. Historically, most operating units have met or
exceeded expectations, while some have not, yielding overall results for the
entire business at approximately the levels expected.

   The ISS operating margin was 17% in 1996 and 16% in both 1995 and 1994. The
Company expects that the full-year 1997 ISS operating margin will increase
slightly. The most important factors affecting the ISS operating margin continue
to be the timing and magnitude of software license revenues, the operating
margin of recently acquired businesses, and the level of product development
spending.

   Since overall ISS results reflect the sum of the diverse results of
individual operating units, there could be an adverse impact on ISS revenues and
margins if too many individual units are unable to meet expectations.

   Disaster Recovery Services (DRS)

The DRS operating margin was 22% in both 1996 and 1995, compared to 21% in 1994.
The improved margin in 1995 is primarily attributable to an increase in revenues
resulting from new contract signings and contract renewals and the results of
cost-containment efforts related to selling, marketing and administrative costs.

   The Company expects the full-year 1997 DRS operating margin to continue the
pattern of modest improvement experienced over the past three years. The most
important factors affecting the DRS operating margin continue to be the rate of
new contract signings and contract renewals, the timing and magnitude of
equipment and facilities expenditures, and the performance of recently acquired
businesses.

   Computer Services and Other (CS)

The increase in the CS operating margin in 1996 compared to 1995 is due
primarily to an increase in remote-access computer processing revenues and
improved performance by the Company's healthcare information systems (HIS)
businesses. The decline in the CS operating margin in 1995 compared to 1994 is
due to the poor performance of an HIS business that was acquired in 1995.

   The Company expects that the CS operating margin will continue to improve for
the full year 1997. The most important factors affecting the CS operating margin
are the timing and magnitude of software license revenues related to the HIS
businesses and revenue variability in both remote-access computer processing and
automated mailing services.

REVENUES

Total revenues increased $137.7 million and $95.4 million in 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Excluding acquired businesses, revenues increased $52.1 million
and $62.6 million, or 10% and 15%, in 1996 and 1995, respectively. Recurring
revenues derived from remote processing, disaster recovery, and software
maintenance and rentals are approximately $516.5 million, $425.6 million and
$367.3 million in 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively, representing 77%, 80% and
84% of consolidated revenues, respectively, for those years. The declining
percentage of recurring revenues for the three years 1994 through 1996 is due
primarily to businesses acquired during that period having a larger percentage
of software license and professional services revenues. Accordingly, the
percentage of software license revenues to total revenues increased to 13% in
1996, compared to 12% and 8% in 1995 and 1994,

                                      28.
<PAGE>
 
respectively, and professional services revenues increased to 10% of total
revenues in 1996, compared to 8% in both 1995 and 1994. The Company expects that
the percentage of recurring revenues for the full year 1997 will not change
significantly from 1996.

   The Company sells a significant portion of its products and services to the
financial services industry and could be directly affected by the overall
condition of that industry. The Company expects that the consolidation trend in
the financial services industry will continue, but it is unable to predict what
effect, if any, this trend may have.

   Investment Support Systems

ISS revenues increased $81.7 million and $59.5 million in 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Excluding acquired businesses, revenues increased $24.0 million
and $39.7 million, or 7% and 15%, in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The 1996
increase is attributable to an $11.2 million, or 12%, increase in software
license and professional services revenues and a $12.8 million, or 5%, increase
in remote processing and software maintenance revenues. The 1995 increase is
attributable to a $23.6 million, or 37%, increase in software license and
professional services revenues and a $16.1 million, or 8%, increase in remote
processing and software maintenance revenues.

   Disaster Recovery Services

DRS revenues increased $31.5 million and $23.6 million in 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Excluding acquired businesses, revenues increased $24.3 million
and $20.3 million, or 15% each, in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increases in
1996 and 1995 are due to $23.7 million and $18.7 million respective increases in
revenues primarily from new contract signings and contract renewals, continued
growth in midrange platforms, and $0.6 million and $1.6 million respective
increases in software license and professional services revenues.

   Computer Services and Other

CS revenues increased $24.5 million and $12.3 million in 1996 and 1995,
respectively. Excluding acquired businesses, 1996 and 1995 revenues increased
$3.8 and $2.5 million, or 10% and 9%, compared to 1995 and 1994, respectively.
The 1996 and 1995 increases are due to increased volume in the Company's remote-
access computer services business and, to a lesser extent, increased revenues in
the Company's HIS and mailing services businesses.

COSTS AND EXPENSES

Cost of sales and direct operating expenses increased $57.6 million and $39.2
million in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increases are due primarily to
acquired businesses and computer and facilities improvements. The decrease in
cost of sales and direct operating expenses as a percentage of revenues from 45%
in 1994 to 44% and 43% in 1995 and 1996, respectively, is due primarily to
increased product development spending associated with the ISS and HIS
businesses.

   Sales, marketing and administration expenses increased $26.2 million and
$19.6 million in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The increases are due primarily to
acquired businesses and increased sales activity, particularly in DRS in 1996
and in the Company's trading systems business in 1995.

   Product development expenses increased $11.1 million and $13.6 million in
1996 and 1995, respectively. The increases are due primarily to acquired
businesses and increased development spending in connection with various ISS
products. Development costs capitalized were $3.6 million in both 1996 and 1995
and $1.9 million in 1994.

   Depreciation of property and equipment increased $6.5 million in both 1996
and 1995. The increases are due primarily to purchases of computer and
telecommunications equipment and acquired businesses.

   Amortization of intangible assets increased $9.7 million and $2.5 million in
1996 and 1995, respectively, due to acquired businesses.

   As explained above, purchased in-process research and development and other
charges of $51.1 million ($0.78 per fully diluted share) were incurred in 1996.
During 1995, merger costs of $4.2 million ($0.10 per fully diluted share) were
incurred in connection with three acquisitions accounted for as poolings-of-
interests (see Notes 1 and 2 of Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements).

                                      29.
<PAGE>
 
MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL

CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS  continued


   Net interest income decreased $1.3 million in 1996 compared to 1995 due to
lower cash and short-term investment balances. Net interest income increased
$2.8 million in 1995 compared to 1994 due primarily to a change in mix between
taxable and tax-exempt instruments and an increase in average cash and
investment balances.

   The Company's effective income tax rate was 45.1% and 42.8% in 1996 and 1995,
respectively. The higher rate in 1996 than in 1995 is due to nondeductible costs
associated with a portion of purchased in-process research and development and
other costs. The increase in the 1995 effective income tax rate compared to 1994
is due to merger costs associated with 1995 acquisitions accounted for as
poolings-of-interests. Excluding these charges, the 1996, 1995 and 1994
effective income tax rates were 40.4%, 40.8% and 40.6%, respectively.

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash and short-term investments as of December 31, 1996 decreased $69.1 million
from December 31, 1995, to $46.1 million. An increase in accounts receivable and
other current assets is due primarily to an increase in software license sales
in December 1996 and to acquired businesses. The Company expects that capital
spending for property and equipment during 1997 will approximate 1996 capital
spending.

   At December 31, 1996, the Company's remaining commitments consist primarily
of operating leases for computer equipment and facilities aggregating $160.3
million, of which $51.2 million will be paid in 1997. The Company expects that
its existing cash resources and cash generated from operations will be
sufficient for the foreseeable future to meet its operating requirements,
contingent payments in connection with business acquisitions, and ordinary
capital spending needs. Furthermore, the Company has a $150.0 million credit
agreement and believes that it has the capacity to secure additional credit or
issue equity to finance additional capital needs.


                                      30.
<PAGE>
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

(In thousands, except per share amounts)                    Year Ended December 31,
                                                         1996         1995         1994
                                                     -----------------------------------
<S>                                                  <C>          <C>          <C> 
Revenues ..........................................  $670,309     $532,628     $437,190
                                                     -----------------------------------

Costs and expenses:
  Cost of sales and direct operating ..............   291,580      234,011      194,838
  Sales, marketing and administration .............   135,403      109,226       89,579
  Product development .............................    61,474       50,338       36,741
  Depreciation of property and equipment ..........    37,356       30,807       24,268
  Amortization of intangible assets ...............    33,627       23,932       21,438
  Purchased in-process research and development 
    and other costs................................    51,083        4,238           --
                                                     -----------------------------------
                                                      610,523      452,552      366,864
                                                     -----------------------------------
Income from operations ............................    59,786       80,076       70,326
  Interest income, net ............................     3,783        5,036        2,202
                                                     -----------------------------------
Income before income taxes ........................    63,569       85,112       72,528
  Income taxes ....................................    28,668       36,440       29,441
                                                     -----------------------------------
Net income ........................................  $ 34,901     $ 48,672     $ 43,087
                                                     -----------------------------------
                                                                               

Fully diluted net income per common share .........  $   0.81     $   1.23     $   1.12
                                                     -----------------------------------    

Shares used to compute fully diluted net income
  per common share ................................    43,061       39,668       38,502
                                                     -----------------------------------
</TABLE> 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      31.
<PAGE>
 
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

(In thousands, except per share amounts)                                              December 31,
                                                                                  1996              1995
                                                                             ----------------------------
<S>                                                                          <C>               <C> 
ASSETS
Current:
  Cash and equivalents ...................................................   $  46,072         $  79,091
  Short-term investments, at cost, which approximates market .............          --            36,066
  Trade receivables, less allowance for doubtful                    
    accounts of $10,391 and $6,426 .......................................     130,404           118,169
  Earned but unbilled receivables ........................................      27,842            25,090
  Prepaid expenses and other current assets ..............................      18,507            16,020
  Deferred income taxes ..................................................      13,632             6,727
                                                                             ----------------------------
    Total current assets .................................................     236,457           281,163
Property and equipment, less accumulated
  depreciation of $158,214 and $126,580 ..................................     109,523            95,745
Software products, less accumulated
  amortization of $68,780 and $59,033 ....................................      71,917            35,375
Goodwill, less accumulated amortization of $23,444 and $19,658 ...........     156,796           116,455
Other intangible assets, less accumulated
  amortization of $34,590 and $27,015 ....................................     104,625            50,996
                                                                             ----------------------------
                                                                             $ 679,318         $ 579,734
                                                                             ----------------------------

LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
Current:
  Short-term and current portion of long-term debt .......................   $  34,932         $   6,761
  Accounts payable .......................................................      13,531            12,428
  Accrued compensation and benefits ......................................      41,581            29,330
  Other accrued expenses .................................................      24,004            15,773
  Accrued income taxes ...................................................       5,873            10,639
  Deferred revenues ......................................................      90,345            72,642
                                                                             ----------------------------
    Total current liabilities ............................................     210,266           147,573
                                                                             ----------------------------
Long-term debt ...........................................................       4,414             3,241
                                                                             ----------------------------
Deferred income taxes ....................................................          --             6,628
                                                                             ----------------------------
Commitments
Stockholders' equity:
  Preferred stock, par value $.01 per share; 5,000 shares authorized......          --                --
  Common stock, par value $.01 per share; 60,000 shares authorized;  
    42,300 and 42,111 shares issued ......................................         423               421
  Capital in excess of par value .........................................     175,937           171,558
  Notes receivable for common stock ......................................        (559)           (2,817)
  Restricted stock plans .................................................      (1,535)             (220)
  Retained earnings ......................................................     292,113           260,172
  Foreign currency translation adjustment ................................        (266)           (1,279)
                                                                             ----------------------------
                                                                               466,113           427,835
  Treasury stock, at cost, 43 and 189 shares .............................      (1,475)           (5,543)
                                                                             ----------------------------
   Total stockholders' equity ............................................     464,638           422,292
                                                                             ----------------------------
                                                                             $ 679,318         $ 579,734
                                                                             ----------------------------
</TABLE> 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      32.
<PAGE>
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

(In thousands)                                                                  Year Ended December 31,
                                                                          1996              1995              1994
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                  <C>               <C>               <C> 
CASH FLOW FROM OPERATIONS
   Net income ...............................................        $  34,901         $  48,672         $  43,087
   Reconciliation of net income to cash flow from operations: 
     Depreciation and amortization ..........................           70,983            54,739            45,706
     Purchased in-process research and development
       and other charges ....................................           51,083                --                --
     Other noncash charges ..................................            2,529             1,886             1,286
     Deferred income tax benefit ............................          (21,921)           (1,374)           (3,668)
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
                                                                       137,575           103,923            86,411
   Cash provided by (used for) working capital, net of effect
       of acquired businesses:
   Accounts receivable and other current assets .............           (9,669)          (30,650)          (11,536)
   Accounts payable and accrued expenses.....................              863             9,729             4,594
   Deferred revenues ........................................            5,396             7,007            10,300
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------            
     Cash flow from operations ..............................          134,165            90,009            89,769
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------            
            
FINANCING ACTIVITIES
   Cash received under employee stock plans .................           12,246             5,999             3,687
   Cash paid for treasury stock .............................           (4,221)          (10,029)           (7,979)
   Borrowings under line of credit ..........................           18,000                --                --
   Repayments of debt .......................................           (9,274)           (8,594)           (2,121)
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
     Total financing activities .............................           16,751           (12,624)           (6,413)   
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------            
LONG-TERM INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES                                                                                       
   Cash paid for acquired businesses, net of cash acquired ..         (165,682)          (27,294)          (28,061)   
   Cash paid for property and equipment .....................          (41,347)          (31,652)          (34,286)   
   Cash paid for software and other assets ..................          (12,972)           (5,879)           (3,191)   
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------             
     Total long-term investment activities ..................         (220,001)          (64,825)          (65,538)   
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------            
Increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents                                                                           
   before short-term investment activities ..................          (69,085)           12,560            17,818    
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENT ACTIVITIES                                                                                      
   Purchase of short-term investments .......................           (2,660)          (56,188)          (48,775)   
   Maturities of short-term investments .....................           38,726            54,228            47,493    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
Increase (decrease) in cash and equivalents .................          (33,019)           10,600            16,536    
Beginning cash and equivalents ..............................           79,091            68,491            51,955    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
Ending cash and equivalents .................................        $  46,072         $  79,091         $  68,491    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION                                                                                              
   Interest paid ............................................        $   1,213         $     919         $     703    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
   Income taxes paid ........................................        $  50,140         $  33,556         $  30,405    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------            
   Acquired businesses:                                                                                               
     Property and equipment .................................        $  11,690         $   4,719         $   2,250    
     Software products ......................................           42,110            14,597             2,620    
     Purchased in-process research and development ..........           44,451                --                --    
     Goodwill and other intangible assets ...................           98,320            31,933            38,274    
     Deferred income taxes ..................................            9,447               379            (3,234)   
     Purchase price obligations and debt assumed ............          (20,217)           (7,796)           (5,184)   
     Net current liabilities assumed ........................          (20,119)           (1,117)           (6,665)   
     Common stock issued ....................................               --           (15,421)               --    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
       Cash paid for acquired businesses, net of cash                                                                 
             acquired of $132, $8,077 and $12,777 in                                                                  
             1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively ..............        $ 165,682         $  27,294         $  28,061    
                                                                     ----------------------------------------------   
</TABLE> 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

                                      33.
<PAGE>
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

(In thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  Common Stock     Capital in
                                                                             Number of       Par    Excess of
                                                                                Shares     Value    Par Value
                                                                             ------------------------------------
<S>                                                                          <C>           <C>     <C>
Balances, December 31, 1993 ...............................................     18,801      $188     $161,149
    Net income ............................................................          -         -            -
    Purchase of common stock ..............................................          -         -            -
    Shares issued under restricted stock plans, net .......................          5         -          164
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ............         92         1          522
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ................          -         -            -
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options...          -         -          400
    Foreign currency translation adjustment ...............................          -         -            -
                                                                                ---------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1994 ...............................................     18,898       189      162,235
    Poolings-of-interest ..................................................      4,253        43        8,878
    Net income ............................................................          -         -            -
    Two-for-one common stock split ........................................     18,898       189         (189)
    Purchase of common stock ..............................................          -         -            -
    Note repayments .......................................................          -         -            -
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ............         62         -           84
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ................          -         -            -
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options...          -         -          550
    Foreign currency translation adjustment ...............................          -         -            -
                                                                                ---------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1995 ...............................................     42,111       421      171,558
    Net income ............................................................          -         -            -
    Purchase of common stock ..............................................          -         -            -
    Note repayments .......................................................          -         -            -
    Shares issued under restricted stock plans ............................         50         -        1,687
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ............        139         2        1,520
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ................          -         -            -
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options...          -         -        1,172
    Foreign currency translation adjustment ...............................          -         -            -
                                                                                ---------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1996 ...............................................     42,300      $423     $175,937
                                                                                ---------------------------------
</TABLE>

    The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.


                                      34.
<PAGE>
 
CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY continued

(In thousands)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                                                          Foreign
                                                                                    Notes   Restricted                   Currency
                                                                           Receivable for        Stock     Retained   Translation
                                                                             Common Stock        Plans     Earnings    Adjustment
                                                                           --------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                        <C>              <C>            <C>        <C> 
Balances, December 31, 1993 .............................................         $     -      $(2,156)    $162,034       $(4,041)
    Net income ..........................................................               -            -       43,087             - 
    Purchase of common stock ............................................               -            -            -             - 
    Shares issued under restricted stock plans, net .....................               -         (164)           -             - 
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ..........               -            -            -             - 
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ..............               -        1,462            -             - 
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options.               -            -            -             - 
    Foreign currency translation adjustment .............................               -            -            -         1,675 
                                                                           --------------------------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1994 .............................................               -         (858)     205,121        (2,366)
    Poolings-of-interest ................................................          (3,332)           -        9,800            32 
    Net income ..........................................................               -            -       48,672             - 
    Two-for-one common stock split ......................................               -            -            -             - 
    Purchase of common stock ............................................               -            -            -             - 
    Note repayments .....................................................             515            -            -             - 
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ..........               -            -       (3,421)            - 
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ..............               -          638            -             - 
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options.               -            -            -             - 
    Foreign currency translation adjustment .............................               -            -            -         1,055 
                                                                           --------------------------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1995 .............................................          (2,817)        (220)     260,172        (1,279)
    Net income ..........................................................               -            -       34,901             - 
    Purchase of common stock ............................................               -            -            -             - 
    Note repayments .....................................................           2,258            -            -             - 
    Shares issued under restricted stock plans ..........................               -       (1,687)           -             - 
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ..........               -            -       (2,960)            - 
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ..............               -          372            -             - 
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options.               -            -            -             - 
    Foreign currency translation adjustment .............................               -            -            -         1,013 
                                                                           --------------------------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1996 .............................................         $  (559)      $(1,535)    $292,113      $  (266)
                                                                           --------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY continued

(In thousands)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                                                     Treasury Stock                      
                                                                              Number of                                 
                                                                                 Shares          Cost         Total     
                                                                              -----------------------------------------
<S>                                                                           <C>            <C>           <C> 
Balances, December 31, 1993 .............................................            (6)     $   (214)     $316,960       
    Net income ..........................................................             -             -        43,087       
    Purchase of common stock ............................................          (212)       (7,979)       (7,979)      
    Shares issued under restricted stock plans, net .....................             -             -             -       
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ..........            87         3,164         3,687       
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ..............             -             -         1,462       
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options.             -             -           400       
    Foreign currency translation adjustment .............................             -             -         1,675       
                                                                              -----------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1994 .............................................          (131)       (5,029)      359,292       
    Poolings-of-interest ................................................             -             -        15,421       
    Net income ..........................................................             -             -        48,672       
    Two-for-one common stock split ......................................           (91)            -             -       
    Purchase of common stock ............................................          (400)      (10,029)      (10,029)      
    Note repayments .....................................................             -             -           515       
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ..........           433         9,515         6,178       
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ..............             -             -           638       
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options.             -             -           550       
    Foreign currency translation adjustment .............................             -             -         1,055       
                                                                              -----------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1995 .............................................          (189)       (5,543)      422,292       
    Net income ..........................................................             -             -        34,901       
    Purchase of common stock ............................................          (131)       (4,221)       (4,221)      
    Note repayments .....................................................             -             -         2,258       
    Shares issued under restricted stock plans ..........................             -             -             -       
    Shares issued under stock purchase, option and award plans ..........           277         8,289         6,851       
    Compensation expense related to restricted stock plans ..............             -             -           372       
    Income tax benefit arising from transactions in common stock options.             -             -         1,172       
    Foreign currency translation adjustment .............................             -             -         1,013       
                                                                              -----------------------------------------
Balances, December 31, 1996 .............................................           (43)     $ (1,475)     $464,638           
                                                                              -----------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.    

                                      35.
<PAGE>
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS


1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

   Principles of Consolidation
SunGard Data Systems Inc. (the Company), through its wholly owned subsidiaries,
operates in a single industry segment, principally in the United States,
providing computer services, principally proprietary processing services and
software to the financial services industry, computer disaster recovery services
and healthcare information systems. The consolidated financial statements
include the accounts of the Company and its subsidiaries. All significant
intercompany transactions and accounts have been eliminated.

   Estimates
The preparation of financial statements in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent
assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported
amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Future events
could cause actual results to differ from those estimates.
   The Company amortizes intangible assets, including software product costs,
over periods that it believes approximate the related useful lives of those
assets based upon estimated future operating results and cash flows of the
underlying business operations. It is possible that the Company's estimates of
those lives could change based upon changes in numerous factors, including
product demand, market conditions, technological developments, economic
conditions and competitor activities.

   Revenue Recognition
Revenues from remote processing, disaster recovery and software maintenance
services are recognized over the terms of the related contracts or as the
related service is provided. License-fee revenues from proprietary products are
generally recognized upon the signing of a contract and delivery of the product,
except in those instances where the Company provides training, installation and
other significant post-delivery services. In those instances, a portion of the
contract price is deferred and recognized as the related services are provided.
   License-fee revenues from proprietary products that are paid for over an
extended period of time and are bundled together with computer equipment and
other post-delivery services, and for which significant credit, technology or
service risks exist, are recorded ratably over the contract period. Revenues
from fixed-fee contracts requiring a significant amount of program modification
or customization, installation, systems integration and/or related services are
recognized based upon the estimated percentage of completion. Changes in
estimated costs during the course of a contract are reflected in the period in
which the facts become known.

   Cash Equivalents and Short-Term Investments
Cash in excess of daily requirements is invested primarily in institutional
money-market funds, commercial paper, time deposits, certificates of deposit and
short-term bonds. Investments purchased with a maturity of three months or less
at the date of purchase are considered to be cash equivalents; those with
maturities greater than three months are considered to be short-term
investments.

   Concentration of Credit Risk
Financial instruments that potentially subject the Company to concentrations of
credit risk consist of temporary cash and short-term investments and
receivables. By policy the Company places its temporary cash and short-term
investments with institutions of high credit-quality and limits the amount of
credit exposure to any one issuer. The Company sells a significant portion of
its products and services to the financial services industry and could be
directly affected by the overall condition of that industry. The Company
believes that any credit risk associated with receivables is substantially
mitigated by a relatively large number of customer accounts and reasonably short
collection terms. Receivables are stated at estimated net realizable value,
which approximates fair value.

   Property and Equipment
Property and equipment are recorded at cost, and depreciation is provided on the
straight-line method over the estimated useful lives of the related assets (two
to eight years for equipment and ten to forty years for buildings and
improvements). Leasehold improvements are amortized ratably over their remaining
lease term or useful life, if shorter.

   Foreign Currency Translation
The functional currency of each of the Company's foreign operations is the local
currency of the country in which the operation is headquartered. Accordingly,
all assets and liabilities are translated into U.S. dollars using exchange rates
in effect at the balance sheet date. Revenues and expenses are translated using
average exchange rates during the period. Increases and decreases in net assets

                                      36.
<PAGE>
 
resulting from foreign currency translation are accumulated as a separate
component of stockholders' equity.

   Software Development and Product Costs
Product development costs are expensed as incurred and consist primarily of
design and development costs of new products and significant enhancements
incurred prior to the establishment of technological feasibility.
   Costs associated with purchased software, software obtained through business
acquisitions, and new products and enhancements to existing products that meet
technological feasibility and recoverability tests are capitalized and amortized
over the estimated useful lives of the related products, generally five to ten
years, using the straight-line method or the ratio of current revenues to
current and anticipated revenues from such software, whichever provides the
greater amortization. Amortization of all software products aggregated
$15,358,000, $9,601,000 and $9,778,000 during 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

   Goodwill
Goodwill represents the excess of cost over the fair value of net assets
acquired and is amortized using the straight-line method over periods ranging
from twelve to forty years. The recoverability of goodwill is periodically
reviewed by the Company. In assessing recoverability, many factors are
considered, including operating results and cash flows of the acquired
businesses, as well as benefits that the acquired businesses contribute to
existing and related products, services and markets. After consideration of
these factors during 1996, the Company shortened the remaining life of goodwill
related to one acquisition and concluded that goodwill related to another
business that was acquired more than ten years ago, the principal markets of
which were state and municipal governments and thrift institutions, was
impaired. Therefore, during 1996, the Company wrote off the remaining amount of
goodwill associated with this acquisition, which totaled $5,157,000. The Company
believes that no further impairment of goodwill existed at December 31, 1996.

   Other Intangible Assets
Other intangible assets consist primarily of contract rights, customer bases and
noncompetition agreements obtained in business acquisitions. Contract rights and
customer bases are amortized using the straight-line method over their estimated
useful lives, ranging from five to thirty years. Noncompetition agreements are
amortized using the straight-line method over the term of such agreements,
ranging from three to seven years.

   Income Taxes
The Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities based upon the
expected future tax consequences of events that have been included in the
financial statements or tax returns. Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
calculated based on the difference between the financial and tax bases of assets
and liabilities using the currently enacted tax rates in effect during the years
in which the differences are expected to reverse.

   Fully Diluted Net Income Per Common Share
Fully diluted net income per common share is calculated using the weighted-
average number of common and common-equivalent shares outstanding during the
year. Common-equivalent shares are attributable to unexercised stock options.
Primary net income per common share approximates fully diluted net income per
common share.

2. ACQUISITIONS

   Purchase Transactions
During 1996, the Company completed eight business acquisitions accounted for as
purchase transactions. Five acquisitions were in the Company's investment
support systems business and three were in its disaster recovery services
business.
   Total cash paid in connection with these acquisitions was $158,080,000,
subject to certain adjustments. Goodwill recorded in connection with these
acquisitions was approximately $42,681,000. In addition, contingent payments of
up to $11,000,000 (including 9,500,000 Australian dollars, or approximately
$7,500,000 at December 31, 1996) may be paid in connection with three of these
acquisitions, depending upon each business achieving certain future financial
results.
   During 1996, the Company recorded a charge of $44,451,000 ($0.64 per fully
diluted share) for purchased in-process research and development associated with
the acquisitions of NCS Financial Systems, Inc.(NCS) and two small investment
support systems businesses.
   In connection with the acquisition of NCS, the Company engaged a nationally
recognized, independent appraisal firm to express an opinion on the fair market
value of the assets acquired to serve as the basis of allocation of the purchase
price to the various classes of assets acquired. While the allocation of the
purchase price is still preliminary (primarily since both the Company and
National

                                      37.
<PAGE>
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS  continued


Computer Systems, Inc., previously the parent company of NCS, have not yet
finalized the allocation of the purchase price for tax purposes), the Company
has recorded a charge against earnings for that portion of the purchase price
related to purchased in-process research and development. This charge
represents, as of the date of acquisition, the value of software products still
in development, but not considered to have reached technological feasibility or
to have any alternate future use.
   Also during 1996, the Company paid an additional 50,000,000 Swedish Kronor
(approximately $7,452,000) as the contingent portion of the purchase price
related to a 1992 acquisition. Goodwill was increased by the amount of that
payment.
   During 1995, the Company completed six business acquisitions accounted for as
purchase transactions. Four acquisitions were in the Company's investment
support systems business and two were in its disaster recovery services
business.
   Total cash paid in connection with these acquisitions was approximately
$23,962,000, subject to certain adjustments. Goodwill recorded in connection
with these acquisitions was approximately $13,838,000. In addition, contingent
payments of up to $10,500,000 may be paid in connection with two of these
acquisitions, depending upon each business achieving certain future financial
results.
   Also during 1995, the Company paid $11,179,000 as the contingent portion of
the purchase price in connection with a 1992 acquisition. Goodwill was increased
during 1995 by the amount of that payment.
   During 1994, the Company completed four business acquisitions. Two
acquisitions were in the Company's investment support systems business and two
were in its disaster recovery services business. Total cash paid in connection
with these acquisitions was approximately $28,307,000. Goodwill recorded in
connection with these acquisitions was approximately $12,956,000.
   The results of operations of these acquired businesses have been included in
the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income from the date of acquisition.
Pro forma combined results of operations are not presented since the results of
operations as reported in the accompanying Consolidated Statements of Income
would not be materially different.

   Pooling-of-Interests Transactions
During 1995, the Company issued a total of 4,253,000 shares of common stock in
connection with three business combinations accounted for as poolings-of-
interests. Two of the combinations form the nucleus of a new operating group
that provides work-flow management and document-imaging systems primarily to the
healthcare industry. The remaining combination was in the Company's investment
support systems business and provides trading, risk management and accounting
systems primarily to the financial services industry.
   During 1995, the Company recorded merger costs of $4,238,000 ($0.10 per fully
diluted share) in connection with these transactions. These costs consist
primarily of investment banking, legal and accounting fees that are not
deductible for income tax purposes.
   The consolidated results of operations for the year ended December 31, 1995
include the operations of each of these businesses from the beginning of the
quarter in which the business combination was completed. The consolidated
financial statements for prior periods have not been restated since the impact
of such restatement would not be material.

3. PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT

Property and equipment consist of the following at December 31 (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                  1996       1995
                            -----------------------
<S>                         <C>         <C> 
Computer and
  telecommunications
  equipment................ $ 166,934   $ 142,387
Leasehold improvements.....    38,403      32,082
Office furniture
  and equipment............    38,292      27,156
Buildings and
  improvements.............    18,490      16,059
Land.......................     2,285       2,229
Construction in progress...     3,333       2,412
                            -----------------------
                              267,737     222,325
Accumulated depreciation
  and amortization.........  (158,214)   (126,580)
                            -----------------------
                            $ 109,523   $  95,745
                            -----------------------
</TABLE> 

                                      38.
<PAGE>
 
4. LONG-TERM DEBT

Long-term debt consists of the following at December 31 (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                      1996       1995
                                 ----------------------
<S>                              <C>         <C> 
Bank credit agreement
  (5.7% interest rate).......... $ 15,000    $     --
Other bank debt
  (8% interest rate)............   16,813          --
Purchase price obligations
  due former owners of
  acquired businesses...........    5,302       6,610
Other, primarily capital lease
  obligations for computer
  equipment and buildings.......    2,231       3,392
                                 ----------------------
                                   39,346      10,002
Less current maturities.........  (34,932)     (6,761)
                                 ----------------------
                                 $  4,414    $  3,241
                                 ----------------------
</TABLE> 

   The Company has an unsecured revolving credit agreement (Credit Agreement)
that provides for up to $150,000,000 of borrowings for an initial period ending
August 2001. Thereafter, the Credit Agreement may be extended for one year, on
an annual basis, at the lender's option. The Company may borrow at LIBOR plus a
margin, depending upon certain financial ratios at the time of the borrowing, or
a base rate, generally the Prime rate, at the Company's option. In order to
remain eligible to borrow under the Credit Agreement, the Company must, among
other requirements, maintain a defined minimum net worth, maintain a defined
minimum fixed-charge coverage ratio, and limit its total debt. Borrowings under
the Credit Agreement at December 31, 1996 were $15,000,000.
   Annual maturities of long-term debt during the next five years are as
follows: 1997- $34,932,000; 1998-$2,309,000; 1999-$491,000; 2000-$111,000; and
2001-$91,000.

5. STOCK OPTION AND AWARD PLANS

   Employee Stock Purchase Plans
Under the Company's Employee Stock Purchase Plans, a maximum of 2,200,000 shares
of common stock may be issued to substantially all full-time employees. Eligible
employees may purchase a limited number of shares of common stock each quarter
through payroll deductions, at a purchase price equal to 85% of the closing
price of the Company's common stock on the last business day of each calendar
quarter. During 1996, 1995 and 1994, employees purchased 152,000, 156,000 and
173,000 shares, respectively, at average purchase prices of $33.50, $22.49 and
$15.49 per share, respectively. At December 31, 1996, 1,057,000 shares of common
stock were reserved for issuance under these plans.

   Equity Incentive Plans
Under the Company's 1994 and 1996 Equity Incentive Plans, awards or options to
purchase up to 2,750,000 shares of common stock may be granted to key employees
of the Company, with an individual limit of 200,000 shares per participant per
year under each plan. Options may be either incentive stock options or
nonqualified stock options, and the option price generally must be at least
equal to the fair value of the Company's common stock on the date of award or
grant. Generally, options are granted for a ten-year term and become fully
exercisable one year from the date of grant, subject to a four- or five-year
vesting schedule.
   During 1996, 1995 and 1994, long-term incentive awards (LTIP awards) were
granted for future options of up to an aggregate of 294,000, 88,000 and 84,000
shares, respectively. The actual number of shares and the exercise price per
share are contingent upon achieving certain cumulative financial results over a
three-year period, beginning on January 1 of the year of each LTIP award. If and
when the option shares are earned, the exercise price per share will be $28.54,
$19.05 and $19.33, respectively, but could be reduced to a minimum of $16.48,
$12.09 and $12.37, respectively, if actual operating results during the three-
year period exceed targeted operating results. Compensation expense, if any, is
estimated initially at the time the achievement of the cumulative financial
results becomes probable and is recorded over the remaining three-year period of
each LTIP award, based upon the difference between the market value and exercise
price of the shares earned. During the years ended December 31, 1996 and 1995,
compensation expense of $1,875,000 and $631,000, respectively, was recorded in
connection with certain 1995 and 1994 LTIP awards. No compensation expense has
been recorded for the 1996 LTIP awards.
   Under the Company's 1986 and 1982 Stock Option Plans, options to purchase up
to 4,094,000 shares of the Company's common stock may be issued to officers and
key employees. These options may be either incentive stock options or
nonqualified stock options, and the option price must be at least equal to the
fair value of the Company's common stock on the date of grant. Generally,
options are granted for a ten-year term and become fully exercisable one

                                      39.
<PAGE>
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued


year from the date of grant, subject to a four-or five-year vesting schedule.
   The table on page 41 summarizes transactions under these equity incentive and
stock option plans. All share and per share amounts have been restated to
reflect a July 1995 two-for-one stock split (see Note 10).
   At December 31, 1996, 4,061,000 shares of common stock were reserved for
issuance under the Company's equity incentive and stock option plans.

   Restricted Stock Plans
The Company's Restricted Stock Award Plan for Outside Directors (RSAP) provides
for awards of up to 200,000 shares of the Company's common stock. Each outside
director automatically receives an initial award of 10,000 shares of the
Company's common stock upon election to the Company's Board of Directors and,
upon re-election as an outside director every fifth year thereafter,
automatically receives another 10,000 shares. Shares awarded under the RSAP are
subject to certain transfer and forfeiture restrictions that lapse over a five-
year vesting period. RSAP awards for 50,000 shares were granted during 1996, and
an RSAP award for 10,000 shares was granted during 1994, at market values of
$33.75 and $17.31 per share, respectively. There were no awards during 1995. At
December 31, 1996, 71,000 shares of common stock were reserved for issuance
under this plan.
   The Company's Restricted Stock Incentive Plan (RSIP) provides for awards of
up to 800,000 shares of the Company's common stock to key management employees.
Shares awarded under the RSIP are subject to certain transfer and forfeiture
restrictions that lapse over a five-year vesting period. There have been no
awards granted since 1991. At December 31, 1996, 107,000 shares of common stock
were reserved for issuance under this plan.
   Unearned compensation expense related to the restricted stock plans is
reported as a reduction of stockholders' equity in the accompanying consolidated
financial statements. For accounting purposes, compensation expense is recorded
ratably over the five-year period during which the shares are subject to
transfer and forfeiture restrictions and is based on the market value on the
award date less the par value of the shares awarded. Compensation expense
related to the RSAP and RSIP aggregated $372,000, $638,000 and $1,462,000 for
the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

   Pro Forma Information
The Company applies APB Opinion No. 25, "Accounting for Stock Issued to
Employees," in accounting for its stock option and award plans. Accordingly,
compensation expense has been recorded for its LTIP, RSAP and RSIP awards, and
no expense has been recorded for its other stock-based plans. FASB Statement No.
123, "Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation" (SFAS 123), changes the method
for recognition of cost on stock option and award plans that are similar to
those of the Company. Adoption of the cost recognition requirements under SFAS
123 is optional; however, pro forma information is presented in the following
paragraph.
   Had compensation cost for the Company's stock option and award plans been
determined based upon the fair value at the date of grant, as prescribed under
SFAS 123, the Company's net income and earnings per share would have been
reduced by approximately $5,110,000 and $1,185,000, or $0.12 and $0.03 per
share, in 1996 and 1995, respectively. The fair value of the options granted
during 1996 and 1995 is estimated to be $16.72 and $12.11 per share,
respectively, on the date of grant using the Black-Scholes pricing model with
the following assumptions: volatility of 37%; expected term of six years; risk-
free interest rate of 6.5%; and no dividend yield. The effects of applying SFAS
123 in this pro forma disclosure are not necessarily indicative of the impact on
future years, since SFAS 123 does not apply to grants and awards made prior to
1995 and the Company's options and awards generally vest over five years. The
Company also anticipates that additional options and awards will be made in
future years.

                                      40.
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                                                                                  Shares
                                                               ------------------------------------------
                                                                                               Weighted
                                                                               Under LTIP       Average
                                                               Available  Award or Option         Price
                                                               ------------------------------------------
<S>                                                            <C>        <C>                  <C> 
Balances at December 31, 1993 ($2.50-$19.50 per share).......    636,000        1,394,000       $  7.18
    Authorized...............................................  1,000,000               --            --
    LTIP awards ($12.37-$19.33 per share)....................    (84,000)          84,000            --
    Canceled ($7.00-$11.69 per share)........................     10,000          (10,000)         8.49
    Granted ($19.25-$19.38 per share)........................   (102,000)         102,000         19.31
    Exercised ($2.50-$11.69 per share).......................         --         (184,000)         6.04
                                                               -----------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1994 ($2.50-$19.50 per share).......  1,460,000        1,386,000          8.36
    Poolings-of-interests ($0.38-$8.21 per share)............         --           89,000          5.40
    LTIP awards ($12.09-$19.05 per share)....................    (88,000)          88,000            --
    Canceled ($7.00-$19.50 per share)........................     56,000          (56,000)        10.75
    Granted ($20.63-$30.75 per share)........................   (729,000)         729,000         24.98
    Exercised ($2.50-$19.50 per share).......................         --         (339,000)         5.58
                                                               -----------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1995 ($0.38-$30.75 per share).......    699,000        1,897,000         15.58
    Authorized...............................................  1,750,000               --            --
    LTIP awards ($16.48-$28.54 per share)....................   (294,000)         294,000            --
    Canceled ($2.19-$40.87 per share)........................    153,000         (175,000)        26.56
    Granted ($29.00-$41.25 per share)........................ (1,554,000)       1,554,000         35.20
    Exercised ($0.38-$20.63 per share).......................         --         (263,000)        11.92
                                                               -----------------------------
Balances at December 31, 1996 ($0.38-$41.25 per share).......    754,000        3,307,000         26.21
                                                               -----------------------------
</TABLE> 

The following table summarizes information concerning outstanding and
exercisable options as of December 31, 1996:
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                 Options Outstanding                                           Options Exercisable
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------         ------------------------------------------
                                                    Weighted average                                       
  Range of Exercise    Number of Options       Remaining                               Number of Options    Weighted average
  Prices                 and LTIP Awards    Life (years)    Exercise Price               and LTIP Awards      Exercise Price
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------         ------------------------------------------
<S>                    <C>                  <C>             <C>                      <C>                    <C> 
  $0.38 to $10.00                488,000             3.9            $ 6.12                       482,000             $  6.11
  $10.00 to $20.00               223,000             6.4             15.32                       223,000               15.32
  $20.00 to $30.00               747,000             8.7             25.21                       607,000               24.33
  $30.00 to $40.00             1,102,000             9.1             34.23                        72,000               30.75
  Over $40.00                    281,000             9.7             40.96                            --                  --
</TABLE> 


6. SAVINGS PLANS

The Company and its subsidiaries maintain savings plans that cover substantially
all employees. These plans generally provide that the Company will contribute a
certain percentage of employee compensation or contributions up to a specified
level. Company contributions charged to income under these plans aggregated
$6,125,000, $5,338,000 and $3,800,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996,
1995 and 1994, respectively.

7. INCOME TAXES

The provisions for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and
1994 consist of the following (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

                       1996      1995      1994
                   -------------------------------
Current:
<S>                <C>       <C>       <C> 
  Federal......... $ 37,460  $ 26,112  $ 22,251
  State...........    8,973     6,708     6,810
  Foreign.........    4,156     4,994     4,048
                   -------------------------------
                     50,589    37,814    33,109
                   -------------------------------
Deferred:          
  Federal.........  (19,639)   (1,376)   (2,579)
  State...........   (2,680)     (216)     (603)
  Foreign.........      398       218      (486)
                   -------------------------------
                    (21,921)   (1,374)   (3,668)
                   -------------------------------
                   $ 28,668  $ 36,440  $ 29,441
                   -------------------------------

</TABLE> 

   Differences between income tax expense at the United States federal statutory
income tax rate and the Company's effective income tax rate for the years ended
December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994 are as follows (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                            1996          1995          1994
                        --------------------------------------
<S>                     <C>           <C>           <C> 
Tax at federal
  statutory rate....... $ 22,249      $ 29,789      $ 25,385
State income taxes,     
  net of federal        
  benefit..............    4,090         4,393         4,034
Purchased in-process    
  research and          
  development and       
  other costs..........    2,656            --            --
Merger costs...........       --         1,524            --
Intangible              
  amortization.........    1,365         1,039         1,142
Tax-exempt interest     
  income...............     (234)         (648)         (859)
Foreign taxes..........     (444)         (120)          196
Other, net.............   (1,014)          463          (457)
                        --------------------------------------
                        $ 28,668      $ 36,440      $ 29,441
                        --------------------------------------
Effective income
  tax rate..............    45.1%         42.8%         40.6%
                        --------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

   Deferred taxes are recorded based upon differences between financial
statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities. The following deferred taxes

                                      41.
<PAGE>
 
NOTES TO CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS continued


were recorded as of December 31, 1996 and 1995 (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                         1996           1995
                                     -------------------------
Current:
<S>                                  <C>            <C> 
  Accounts receivable............... $  3,799       $  2,483
  Accrued compensation               
    and benefits....................    5,692          2,810
  Other accrued expenses............    2,554          1,434
  Deferred revenues.................    1,587             --
                                     -------------------------
                                     $ 13,632       $  6,727
                                     -------------------------
Long-Term:*                          
  Property and equipment............ $  1,334       $  1,759
  Intangible assets.................   (9,807)        (8,387)
  Purchased in-process research      
    and development and other        
    acquisition-related items.......   23,360             --
                                     -------------------------
                                     $ 14,887       $ (6,628)
                                     -------------------------  
</TABLE> 
* Included in other intangible assets.

8. EXPORT SALES

The Company's domestic operations recorded revenues primarily from international
software licenses and maintenance and professional services of approximately
$58,019,000, $51,273,000 and $33,505,000 for the years ended December 31, 1996,
1995 and 1994, respectively.

9. COMMITMENTS

The Company leases a substantial portion of its computer equipment and
facilities under operating leases. Future minimum rentals under operating leases
with initial or remaining noncancelable lease terms in excess of one year as of
December 31, 1996 follow (in thousands):
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 

       <S>                   <C> 
       1997.................   $ 51,225
       1998.................     45,389
       1999.................     25,074
       2000.................     14,990
       2001.................      8,623
       Thereafter...........     15,013
                               --------  
                               $160,314
                               --------  
</TABLE> 

   Rent expense aggregated $56,451,000, $52,359,000 and $45,923,000 for the
years ended December 31, 1996, 1995 and 1994, respectively.

10. STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY

   Common Stock Split
On June 2, 1995, the Company's Board of Directors authorized a two-for-one stock
split of the Company's common stock. The stock split was effective for
stockholders of record on June 15, 1995, and shares were issued on July 7, 1995.
The number of shares used for purposes of calculating net income per common
share and all per share data have been adjusted for all periods presented to
reflect this stock split.


REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


To The Board of Directors and Stockholders
SunGard Data Systems Inc.

We have audited the accompanying consolidated balance sheets of SunGard Data
Systems Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and the related
consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash flows for each
of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996. These financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management. Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on
our audits.
   We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting
the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. An audit also includes
assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by
management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation.
We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.
   In our opinion, the consolidated financial statements referred to above
present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
SunGard Data Systems Inc. and subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and
the consolidated results of their operations and their cash flows for each of
the three years in the period ended December 31, 1996, in conformity with
generally accepted accounting principles.


/s/ Coopers & Lybrand LLP


2400 Eleven Penn Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
February 13, 1997

                                      42.

<PAGE>
 
                                 Exhibit 21.1

                           SunGard Data Systems Inc.
                         Subsidiaries of the Registrant
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
 
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name of Subsidiary                           Jurisdiction of Incorporation
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bi-Tech Software Inc./(1)/                               Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corbel & Co./(1)//(2)/                                   Florida
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FPH, Front & Prosoftia Holding AB/(3)//(4)/              Sweden
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Intelus Corporation/(1)/                                 Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
IPB Holdings Inc./(1)//(5)/                              Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MACESS Corporation/(1)/                                  Alabama
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio Administration Limited/(6)//(7)/               United Kingdom
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Renaissance Software Inc./(1)//(4)/                      California
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SFS Inc./(8)/                                            Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shaw Data Inc./(1)//(9)/                                 Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SSI 2 Inc./(1)//(5)/                                     Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Business Systems Inc./(1)//(10)/                 Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Computer Services Inc./(1)/                      Pennsylvania
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard CSS Inc./(1)/                                    Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard/DML Inc./(1)/                                    Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Dealing Systems Pty Limited/(11)//(12)/          Australia
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard DIS Inc./(1)//(5)/                               Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Financial Systems Inc./(1)//(13)/                Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Holdings Limited/(5)//(14)/                      United Kingdom
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Institutional Brokerage Inc./(1)/                New York
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Investment Products Inc./(1)/                    Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Investment Systems Inc./(1)//(15)/               Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Investment Ventures, Inc./(5)//(16)/             Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard MIS Inc./(1)//(17)/                              Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Recovery Services Inc./(1)//(7)//(18)/           Pennsylvania
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Shareholder Systems Inc./(1)/                    Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Software Inc./(3)//(5)/                          Delaware
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Systems International Inc./(1)//(19)/            Pennsylvania
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Systems Limited/(3)/                             United Kingdom
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Systems Pty Limited/(3)//(20)/                   Australia
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SunGard Trust Systems Inc./(1)/                          North Carolina
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1) Wholly owned subsidiary of SunGard Investment Ventures, Inc.

(2) Conducts certain operations through one wholly owned domestic subsidiary.
<PAGE>
 
(3)  Wholly owned subsidiary of SunGard Systems International Inc.

(4)  Conducts certain operations through three wholly owned foreign
     subsidiaries.

(5)  Not an operating company.

(6)  Wholly owned subsidiary of SunGard Holdings Limited.

(7)  Conducts certain operations through two wholly owned foreign subsidiaries.

(8)  Wholly owned subsidiary of SunGard Financial Systems Inc. that conducts
     business under the names SunGard Insurance Systems, Information Systems of
     America and ISA.

(9)  Conducts certain operations through two wholly owned foreign subsidiaries 
     and SunGard Systems Limited.

(10) Organized into, and conducts business under the names of, three operating
     divisions -- SunGard Asset Managemnt Systems ("SAMS"), SunGard Employee
     Benefit Systems ("SEBS") and SunGard Mailing Services. SAMS conducts
     certain operations through SunGard Systems Limited, and SEBS conducts
     certain operations through SunGard Systems Limited and SunGard Systems Pty
     Limited.
     
(11) Wholly owned subsidiary of SunGard DIS Inc.

(12) Conducts certain operations through three foreign sister corporations, all
     of which are wholly owned subsidiaries of SunGard DIS Inc.

(13) Organized into, and conducts business under the names of, five operating
     divisions -- SunGard Brokerage Systems, SunGard Global Systems, SunGard
     Government Systems, SunGard Insurance Systems and SunGard Securities
     Systems. Sometimes conducts business under the names Money Management
     Systems, Phase3 Systems, Warrington Financial Systems and Wismer
     Associates.

(14) Owned by SunGard Investment Ventures, Inc. and SunGard Systems 
     International Inc.

(15) Conducts certain operations through SunGard Systems Limited and SunGard 
     Systems Pty Limited.

(16) Wholly owned subsidiary of SunGard Data Systems Inc.

(17) Conducts business primarily under the name SunGard Insurance Systems.  
     Conducts certain operations through SFS Inc.

(18) Organized into, and conducts business under the names of, two operating
     divisions -- SunGard Recovery Services and SunGard Planning Solutions.

(19) Organized into, and conducts business under the names of, two operating
     divisions -- SunGard Capital Markets and SunGard Futures Systems. Conducts
     certain operations through two wholly owned domestic subsidiaries that have
     foreign branches and eight wholly owned foreign subsidiaries including FPH,
     Front & Prosoftia Holding AB, SunGard Systems Limited and SunGard Systems
     Pty Limited.

(20) Conducts certain operations through one wholly owned foreign subsidiary.

                                       2

<PAGE>
 
                                 Exhibit 23.1


                      CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS


  We consent to the incorporation by reference into the Company's Registration
Statements on Form S-8 (Registration Nos. 33-6425, 33-14984, 33-33602, 33-42345,
33-69650, 33-64901 and 33-15641) of our report dated February 13, 1997 on our
audits of the consolidated financial statements of SunGard Data Systems Inc. and
subsidiaries as of December 31, 1996 and 1995, and for each of the years in the
three-year period ended December 31, 1996, which report on the consolidated
financial statements is incorporated by reference in this Report on Form 10-K.



COOPERS & LYBRAND L.L.P.


2400 Eleven Penn Center
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
March 27, 1997



<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<LEGEND>
THIS SCHEDULE CONTAINS SUMMARY FINANCIAL INFORMATION EXTRACTED FROM THE
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET OF SUNGARD DATA SYSTEMS INC. AS OF DECEMBER 31, 1996
AND THE CONSOLIDATED STATEMENT OF INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996,
BOTH INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE INTO THE FORM 10-K OF SUNGARD DATA SYSTEMS INC.
FOR THE YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1996 AND IS QUALIFIED IN ITS ENTIRETY BY
REFERENCE TO SUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
</LEGEND>
<MULTIPLIER>   1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   12-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1996
<PERIOD-END>                               DEC-31-1996
<CASH>                                          46,072
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                  168,637
<ALLOWANCES>                                    10,391
<INVENTORY>                                          0
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                               236,457
<PP&E>                                         267,737
<DEPRECIATION>                                 158,214
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 679,318
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                          210,266
<BONDS>                                          4,414
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                           423
<OTHER-SE>                                     464,215
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   679,318
<SALES>                                              0
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                               670,309
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                  424,037<F1>
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                51,083<F2>
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                                   0
<INCOME-PRETAX>                                 63,569
<INCOME-TAX>                                    28,668
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                             34,901
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                    34,901
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                     0.81<F3>
<EPS-DILUTED>                                     0.81<F3>
<FN>
<F1>EXCLUDES SELLING, MARKETING AND ADMINISTRATIVE COSTS, AND PURCHASED IN-PROCESS
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AND OTHER COSTS.
<F2>PURCHASED IN-PROCESS RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT AND OTHER COSTS.
<F3>INCLUDES PURCHASED IN-PROCESS RESEARCH AND DEVLOPMENT AND OTHER COSTS TOTALLING
$0.78 PER SHARE.
</FN>
        

</TABLE>


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