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Mis300 1203 a-01 ph 3 gp final
This document discusses proposed improvements to SewWorld's hardware, databases, internet connectivity, software, and software acquisition process. It was written as a group project for an introduction to information systems class. Specific recommendations are made to add a DSL line and servers, upgrade workstations. The advantages and disadvantages of customized versus off-the-shelf software are discussed. Overall the document analyzes how various technological improvements could advance SewWorld through better software integration.
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Mis300 1203 a-01 ph 3 gp final
- 1. Advancing SewWorld throughSoftware Integration MIS300-1203A-01 Introduction to Information Systems Phase 3 Group Project Richard Van Vliet, Zueli A. Merida, Emeline L. Faaumu-Niutei, and Sabrina Mergenthaler Colorado Technical University Professor Michael Pelosi August 6, 2012
- 2. Hardwiring Improvements inHardware (Contribution of Richard Van Vliet) Recommendations To Improve Hardware •Add a DSL line •Add Servers •Upgrade Workstations
- 3. Developing Improvements inDatabases (Contribution of Emeline L. Faaumu-Niutei ) Database -A collection of information that can be used for many different purposes. -A database is like an electronic card index. Each card contains some information ,e.g. about a client- it is a record. The items of information held (e.g. mane, address, fees) are fields. -Advantages of a database: -Expandability -Large amount of information held in each record -Automatic calculations can be performed -Records may be sorted, or those matching a certain criterion selected, automatically, and in a variety of orders. -Production of reports based on the information -Databases are designed to link the data together: -Flat file database: a single file database. All records are of a standard format. Data can be stored, accessed, sorted and updated. Types of Databses -Flat file database: a single file database. All records are of a standard format. Data can be stored, accessed, sorted and updated. -Relational database :file can be linked together and data can be accessed from any file. -Programmable database :has its own programming language which enables the database to be tailed to individual needs. -Database management system :software that runs the database, organizing the input data and allowing various application program to use the database.
- 4. Investing in Improvementsin the Internet (Contribution of Sabrina Mergenthaler)
- 5. Investing in Improvementsin the Internet (Continued)
- 6. Sewing Improvements inSoftware (Contribution of Zueli A. Merida ) Software •Connects various components •Chart Creation •Productivity •Strategy development •Automation •Communication •Financials •Inventory •Enhanced speed, accuracy, and reliability
- 7. Acquisition of Software (GroupCollaboration) Options of Software Acquisition •Horizontal-market application •Vertical-market application •One-of-a-kind application •Off-The-Shelf Software •Costumed Built Software
- 8. Acquisition of Software (Continued) Gettingthe Right Software •Price may be a concern •Time may be an issue •Difficulties in installation •How much does it need to do?
- 9. Advantages in SoftwareAcquisition: Customized Vs. Off-the-Shelf (Group Collaboration) Off-the-Shelf Advantages •Speed to deployment •Increased productivity •Ease of use •Cost effective Open Source Customized •Security & flaws fixed immediately •Flexibility & freedom •Quality & cost •SewWorld can test drive with no committment •Interoperability •Auditability •Reduce cost for SewWorld, customer, supplier, or by raising competitor’s cost •Innovation •Growth by volume or geographical expansion, backward or forward integration, product-line or entry diversification. •Alliance Customized Advantages •Control Management of Data Structure •Integration of other applications •Unique Business Processes •Modification of Changing needs •No Licenses Fees •No Hidden Fees •24/7 Support Service
- 10. Disadvantages in SoftwareAcquisition: Customized Vs. Off-the-Shelf (Group Collaboration) Off-the-Shelf •Wrong technology •New technology •Not specific to the current system •May need more hardware Custom Designed •Extremely expensive •Time Consuming •Testing Delays •Poorly Documented Open Source Customized •Licenses are incompatible •Risk of third-party intellectual property rights infringement •Users may feel isolated in degree of support •Products serve a niche market rather than broad population
- 11. References Information Systems inBusiness. (n.d.). M.U.S.E. Introduction to Information Systems. Colorado Technical University.. Retrieved from https://campus.ctuonline.edu/courses/MIS300/p1/hub1/33485.pdf Kroenke, D. (2010). MIS Essentials. Upper Saddle River, New Jersey: Prentice Hall. Clemons, E., Kauffman, R., and Dewan, R. (2008). Impact of Information Systems on Market Structure and Function: Developing and Testing Theories. Journal of Management Information Systems. Vol. 25 No. 2. Retrieved from http://www.jmis-web.org/articles/v25_n2_p7/index.html Hamel, G. (2012). Advantages & disadvantages of progression in technology. Retrieved from http://smallbusiness.chron.com/advantages-disadvantages-progression-technology-25954.html Computer Hope. (2012). Upgrade. Retrieved from http://www.computerhope.com/jargon/u/upgrade.htm Harris, M. (2006). How to avoid open source licensing pitfalls. Computer Weekly, 52
- 12. Mahmood, M. andMann, G. (2010). Impacts of Information Technology Investment on Organizational Performance. Journal of Management Information Systems. Vol. 16 No. 4. Retrieved from http://www.jmisweb.org/articles/v16_n4_p3/ Wang, E., Tai, J., and Wei, H.(2006). A Virtual Integration Theory of Improved Supply-Chain Performance. Journal of Management Information Systems. Volume 23 Number 2. Retrieved from http://www.jmisweb.org/articles/v23_n2_p41/index.html Morris, R. (2007, January 2). Custom software vs off-the-shelf products. Retrieved from http://ezinearticles.com/?Custom- Software-vs-Off-the-shelf-Products&id=402121 Rampur, S. (2011). Impact of Information Technology on Business. Retrieved from Buzzle.com: http://www.buzzle.com/articles/impact-of-information-technology-on-business.html Lorenzetti, J. (2004). Open Source: Pros and Cons for Program Administrators. Distance Education Report, 8(3), 8. Noyes, K. (2010, Nov 5). Pcworld. Retrieved from http://www.pcworld.com/businesscenter/article/209891/10_reasons_open_source_is_good_for_business.html Rackoff, N., Wiseman, C., & Ullrich, W. A. (1985). Information Systems For Competitive Advantage: Implementation of a Planning Process. MIS Quarterly, 9(4), 285-294. References Continued
Editor's Notes
- #2 Introduction Advancing SewWorld as a competitive business within its industry is the bottom line. It is the goal driving the technological vehicles for change within the company. Having committed to this endeavor, it must be understood what technology does to create SewWorld’s competitive advantage. Regardless of what technology is being integrated into SewWorld’s environment, the purpose is to facilitate changes that increase the speed, accuracy, and reliability of the company. SewWorld understands the need to upgrade their information systems. Their current system is taking the business down. In particular they seem to have outdated hardware and need to add to it to stay competitive. By having a modern information system that connects each of the store sites and the home office they should see their sales improve. By having a comprehensive piece of software that will help work with sales inventory and buying they will be able to help their customers more efficiently. Throughout this presentation, we will revisit certain technologies that have been discussed before, and we will see those improvements and how they are made through their implementation and integration.
- #3 Hardwiring Improvements in Hardware Cars without the proper components in their engine will fail to run. Similarly, racecars without more advanced components will not win the race. The basis for an operational information system relies on having the right pieces connected to the advanced components that will create efficiency, accuracy, and reliability, in order to gain the completive advantage. Upgrades involve improvements to what is existing by adding to the system or replacing pieces with better ones. One of the first upgrades that would need to happen is for SewWorld to invest in some type of hard line, such as a DSL line, for internet connection. Most businesses would have a very difficult time existing on a dial up service. This will cut time in processing transactions, getting information and communicating outside of the store. With the troubles that the company is having with records, installing local servers in each of the stores will help with the record keeping and keep better track of inventory. In addition SewWorld might consider having a main server at it’s headquarters. This server would communicate with the other servers through the internet using a secure link like a VPN line, or Virtual Private Network line. Since SewWorld is still using dial up internet service they probably will need to either upgrade their workstations so that they can be adequate client workstations or replace them with Ones that will work. It may be cheaper to upgrade the memory and even the processor than to replace the whole unit if the rest of the workstation can do the job. If these upgrades would be barely adequate then it would be recommended that SewWorld replace the units to be better prepared for the future (Computer Hope, 2012).
- #4 Developing Improvements in Databases As we develop the hardware of SewWorld into an efficiently, fast moving system, greater data can be collected and used more effectively. Databases are capable of holding large quantities of data from personnel information, client information, product details, and so much more. Imagine being able to tell a client that you’ll not only find what they are looking for, but you’ll know immediately how much is in stock, or where to send them if it’s not in stock. Having a solid database system can employ the attributes to SewWorld’s competitive nature. Above you can see the various types of database, as well as the advantages for using them. SewWorld needs a good Database Management System (DBMS) because right now there is a need to improve how stores communicate to each other. As of now, 1 store will show a product “in-stock” while the other store shows the same product “out-of-stock.” Inventory errors need to be fixed immediately, and stores should be able to keep an up-to-date inventory list. For example, when a store sell a certain product, after the cashier update the system that product is “sold” and should show up in all of the 6 stores the same item is “sold” too. This will help not to mislead any customers and give them false hope that the item is “in-stock” but when to buy it is “out-of-stock.” In addition, it will help increase SewWorld competitive strategy, help eliminate errors, and eliminate duplicate inventory list.
- #5 With the increased competition faced by businesses it is more important than ever to define an ability to survive. By implementing a highly effective Information Technology (IT) system, SewWorld can generate a means of survival that will advance them into the future. Such information systems create an infrastructure that improve the establishment of efficient processes and contribute to reducing cost and raising revenue. In fact, 2008 saw the greatest investment of information technology at one trillion dollars, and of that over 500 billion dollars of that was invested in internet. In this portion of the presentation, we will focus on how information systems (IS) and internet can be used to achieve competitive advantage in SewWorld (Mahmood & Mann, 2010). The Internet represents one of the most successful examples of the benefits of sustained investment and commitment to research and development of information infrastructure and has drastically reduced costs of operating. The use of the Internet is vastly expanding, as is depiction in the chart above. However, the internet presents both challenges and opportunities for businesses (Kroenke, 2010).
- #6 To SewWorld, use of the internet as one of the components of its information system means increasing accessibility, storage, distribution of information and knowledge to consumers and to all of SewWorld’s locations. Not only does the internet reduce transaction costs, but it has the potential to reduce supplier costs as well. Using the internet, SewWorld can compare suppliers more easily and more quickly to ensure they are receiving the absolute lowest costs. Also, the use of the internet builds a system of automated processes and functions that SewWorld can now take advantage of to engage with consumers, suppliers, and others in the chain of command; for example, online databases which can be used to generate e-mails, sales notifications, and VIP information sequences (Wang, Tai, & Wei, 2006). Additionally, the movement of technology and the embrace of connection with consumers had contributed greatly to increased sales. Through social media outlets such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, and other similar networking sites, SewWorld gains the competitive edge that’s created when consumers and companies connect on an eye-to-eye level. There’s so much more offered by the use of the internet, but you can already see by what has been demonstrated here that the internet is an essential element to SewWorld’s information systems (Clemons, Kauffman, & Dewan, 2008).
- #7 An information system is a great tool in the world of business. Many organizations all over the world are embracing information systems not only to expand their growth but to also give them competitive advantages. Information technology system is a wide field, and has enabled organizations across the world to work in an efficient manner. It plays a very important role in effective management and running of a business (Rampur, 2011). SewWorld can improve the speed, accuracy, and reliability of their information systems with the advanced technology and the creation of better Software programs. Businesses can achieve beyond their capabilities as software evolves from version to version they become easier to work with and understand. A good and effective software program can keep up with the demands of the company’s productivity. Business productivity software ensures organizations have the tools to overcome the challenges of executing on strategy every day and prospering in today's economic times. Increased business productivity can be traced to the automation of processes allowing for faster communication of strategy, increased time spent on strategic priorities and greater project completion rates (SuccessFactors, 2012).
- #8 Approaching the development of software can be a bit overwhelming especially for someone that does not have too much knowledge about it. My recommendation to SewWorld would be to inquire as much information about applications software to better understand the development of software. Application software consists of programs that perform a business function (Kroenke, 2010). There are several categories of applications programs that exist like the Horizontal-market application, Vertical-market application, and One-of-a-kind application. The Horizontal-market application software provides capabilities common across all organizations and industries offered to the general public. This kind of software can be purchased right of the shelves examples of some of them are Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. Vertical-market applications software is one that supplies goods to a specific industry. This kind of software application is usually customized and altered to meet the needs of a specific business group like dental offices to schedule appointments and bill patients. One-of-a-kind application software is developed for a specific, unique need. For example one of the industries that use this kind of application is the Internal Revenue Service simply because it has needs no other organization has (Kroenke, 2010). SewWorld has the option to purchase software off-the-shelf ready to use or to create it internally. There are many important factors the organization needs to consider before making their decision. A ready to use software off-the-shelf is lower in cost intended for a wide range of audiences that does not cater to one specific group of users. An organization would have to make several adjustments to implement the off-the-shelf software. The updates may cost additional fees throughout the use of the software. In addition a ready to use software is convenient, faster to implement all you have to do is download the software and you’re ready to use it (Morris, 2007). Costumized software in the other hand can be very high in cost quite difficult to make and the process can take a bit of time. The benefits of customized software are that is made just for one buyer to meet their specific needs. Customized software provides flexibility as well for the organization to tinker around with the software and fine tune it for better performance (Morris, 2007)
- #9 While many companies will produce their own customized software, the basic upgrades that SewWorld is looking for can be found on the shelf at a local computer software retailer. An Enterprise software package will have the capabilities to do all of the things that SewWorld needs like inventory control, sales records, and buying records. There are many systems available today and finding one at a good price should be no problem for SewWorld. These off the shelf systems will save a tremendous amount of time over having to develop a custom software solution. By being able to deploy the system quicker SewWorld will be able to increase their business earlier and be more competitive in a shorter amount of time. Since these off the shelf pieces of software are designed for general purposes there may need to be some tweaking involved to get it to gel with the existing system. For this particular situation It is quite probable that SewWorld could purchase a system that it will eventually grow into. The current needs are basic business functions but SewWorld will need to develop an internet site that the software could work with as well. Having that aspect already built into the programming will help SewWorld move forward even more quickly (Morris, 2007).
- #10 Using the off the shelf software is often times user friendly, so there is minimal training involved to get the personnel up to speed on the new technology. Often times the new technology will offer a help service to ensure that their product meets the expectations of their customers. Having the technology to move forward in today's business climate will save money in terms of sales that are no longer lost due to the inabilities of outdated technologies. By looking to upgrade the workstations first and only replacing them when there is a need to can cut the cost of upgrading the whole system. The biggest savings will come from using the off the shelf software as developing and testing custom software is both time consuming and costly (Hamel, 2012). There are several advantages when developing costumed software. A major advantage developing costumed software is that it is design uniquely to meet the needs of only your business needs instead of having to change the way you process things if you purchased off-the-shelf software. The cost is clearly specified up front there are no hidden costs or to upgrade the system a later time. Your business will have 24/7 customer support to assist you with any problems you may have. Another great benefit is you do not have to purchase any license fees because the company basically owns the software not like when it comes from a third party. In addition the company has complete control over all the data structure. The system can be integrated with other applications within the organization. One of the best advantages is the modification options of the system if it needs any changes. The advantages of using an open source customization includes: Open Source Advantages Security & flaws fixed immediately Flexibility & freedom to do whatever they want Quality & cost, obtain a better quality software at a fraction of the price SewWorld can test drive with no commitment until its sure Interoperability, being able to share in many computers Auditability, visibility of code allows SewWorld to view code itself with confident (Noyes, 2010) Operational and/or Competitive Advantage Reduce cost for SewWorld, customer, supplier, or by raising competitor’s cost Innovation – introduce a product or process change that results in fundamental transformation in the way business is conducted. Growth by volume or geographical expansion, backward or forward integration, product-line or entry diversification. Alliance – forging marketing agreements, forming businesses Joint Ventures (JV). (Rackoff, Wiseman, & Ullrich, 1985).
- #11 One of the major drawbacks with improving an information system is that there must be some compatibility between the old system and the new system. If the company goes and purchases a great processor and it does not work with their systems then the company has wasted money. If they go and buy the software that does everything they need and it is formatted for Macintosh instead of an IBM based system that software does not help them. The company could be using a technology that is being passed by new technology. Lotus Notes was the biggest word processing system for business at one time, but Microsoft's Word overcame it and eventually Lotus had to adapt their technology to be able to read the word document. The off the shelf software will probably have capabilities to do things that SewWorld will not need at all. This is because of the generic nature of the software. This could lead to some confusion by the users. Finally, when everything is set up there will probably be a need for another piece of hardware to get the whole system to run at it’s maximum capacity (Hamel, 2012). There are great advantages of custom developed software but there are also some disadvantages. Some of the disadvantages are the cost. Since the software is been built specifically to meet one organization there are many steps involved as well as tools that can be quite expensive. The whole process of the software development can take some time to get it ready not to mention the additional time it will take to run tests or add any modifications to meet the consumer's needs. With out a proper team working on the software additional problems can surface like poor documentation. Another big problem is the probability of getting bugs is much greater. The drawbacks of an open source include: Open Source Disadvantages: Licenses are incompatible with one another Risk of third-party intellectual property rights infringement, specifically in relation to copyright material and/or patents (Harris, 2006). Users may feel isolated in degree of support for locally customized applications, which vary by product & may not exist at all. Products serve a niche market rather than broad population (Lorenzetti, 2004).
- #12 An information system is designed to make effective use of all components that contribute to the management of a company’s information. SewWorld can update their Information System without breaking the bank. By performing upgrades on the units they have they will spend a fraction of the cost of replacing all of the units. Having a strong internet connection will ensure that communications are done at modern speeds. Using off the shelf software can cut cost down tremendously, but cut down on the time of creating and installing the software. While there are some disadvantages, like the software doing more than required, what the business will gain will more than make up for those disadvantages.