Use of Computers in Business
The Information Technology (IT) revolution that brought in the computers has gone through a variety of different stages. The prominent introduction being in 1960s when big companies had to store large amounts of data. As the volume of data that was being churned out began to increase, computer and IT companies such as Apple computers, Microsoft, HP and IBM began to spring up.
The revolution of computers initially was used for complex data bases only. However people realized the many uses of computers and the hardware and software, for computers began to become, more user-friendly and aimed at providing comfort, ease of operation and efficiency to the user. Two major breakthroughs in the revolution of computers were the introduction of Windows and years later the introduction of laptop computers. Another revolutionary introduction was the Macbook, a highly advanced next generation device, which of course greatly facilitated businesses and working people in several ways. Apart from that, hardware such as scanners, CD and floppy drives and printers have facilitated the operations of offices.
Computers in Business
In today's era we cannot imagine an office or business due to our reliance on the numerous computer uses. The following are a few uses of computers in business...
- General Convenience: Earlier, before computers were introduced in businesses, there were multiple devices in offices and businesses such as fax machines, typewriters, telefax equipment, stenography equipment and filing cabinets that were used extensively. Computers successfully replaced these office tools. The entire office became 'dematerialized' that is files and data existed electronically on the computer instead of having a physical existence.
- Accounting and Finance: An important use of computers is the machine's ability to act as a clever accountant. There are countless accounting software that can cleverly record entries and plan finances. These financial software basically increase the accuracy of the financial accounting process. There are also several Internet banking facilities that have come into use of recent. Such facilities enable people to conduct transactions from their offices, saving them a journey to the bank.
- Communications: The biggest impact of information technology on business was observed in the field of communication. The Internet and the concept of e-mails has benefited businesses as information, letters, technical drawings, applications and almost any sort of communication can be transmitted from person to person, at distant locations, in a matter of few minutes. The Internet also helps in communication to the masses. Stock investors, Forex traders, media companies, financial planners and company owners rely solely on the world-wide web for instant updates from over the world.
- Technical Software: An important use of computers in business is running technical software. Technical software are used by countless people such as engineers, architects, logistics personnel ,etc. These technical software are again user-friendly, accurate, convenient and fast.
In the early 20th century we often saw several futuristic movies and cartoons that depicted several devices with screens that had their own brains and did the bidding of mankind. Well, it looks like such a dream of the future is not far off.
