Computers in Business
I think it's fair to say that personal computers have become the most empowering tool we've ever created. They're tools of communication, they're tools of creativity, and they can be shaped by their user. - Bill Gates
Almost everyone is aware that Information Technology (IT) has played a very significant role in taking businesses to new heights. Before the advent of computers and relevant technology, business were totally done using manual resources. As a result, the time taken to complete a task was more, quality of work was not up to the mark, and the procedures also tended to be more complicated. However, as computers started to be used in businesses establishments, the processing of work got more stabilized.
What is Corporate Computing?
Corporate computing is a concept that is concentrated on the involvement of information technology in business concerns. If you are a working professional, you surely might have easily known how much computer technologies are used in businesses. These technologies are used in almost all sectors such as accounts and payroll management, inventory management and control, shipping functions, data and database management, financial analysis, software development, security control and many other essential fields. The end result of corporate computing is increased productivity and quality.
Use of Computers in the Business World
Following are only a few major fields in business where computing is used largely.
Inventory Control and Management
Inventory control and management is a crucial process, especially in establishments related to retail and production. Computers are used for recording all aspects of the goods coming in, details of goods and services, distribution of stock, and storage details. Note, that in small retail and production firms, simple computer software are generally used. Whereas in large corporations, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERPs) are employed.
Accounts and Payroll Management
Accounting and payroll management is also believed to be an important part of the overall system in a company. Be it any kind of industry; computers are largely used for the purpose of managing accounts of administration, sales, purchases, invoices, and also payroll management, which includes recording financial details of employees. These are just some components of the accounts and payroll management system where computing is used.
Database Management
Database management is associated with filing and recording, managing, and retrieval of data whenever required. For smooth running of businesses, it is very important that they have all procedures and details stored. This storage of data is done with the help of large databases and servers which have to be maintained on a regular basis. These information databases and servers are controlled by computers by appropriate authorities in a company.
Software Development
It can be said that for every computing need, a software has to be used. Software can only be made using computers for the purpose of helping businesses to combine processes and carry out their work properly. Nowadays, ERPs are largely used in business to blend all their processes together and execute the output as expected. There are many other software and application packages that a business may need to use according to the nature of work.
There are many other fields such as security control, communication, research, budgeting and forecasting, web management, where computers are essential. The impact of information technology on business has certainly changed the way businesses operate and have coordinated different practices of the firm to function collectively. Computer use is not only present in businesses, but computers are even used in sectors like medical and defense.
