Business Applications of Computer Systems: Assessing the Reasons for its Success and Understanding its Weak Points

Business Applications of Computer Systems:

Assessing the Reasons for its Success and Understanding its Weak Points

Introduction

            Considering the times wherein the computer was still not available for business purposes, it is not difficult to imagine how tedious the task of organizing and controlling relevant information was for businesses. During the present however, it is not difficult for one to realize that computers have become a significant part of the operation of various businesses. It is also not hard to understand that computer systems, along with computer business software, have become relatively ubiquitous in the business industry today; in fact, computers can be considered as an essential tool for operating businesses in the current generation of businesses.

            There are always debates regarding the positive and negative effects of certain methods in business, one of which is the use of computers. It is irrefutable that even though there are numerous benefits from the use of computer systems, there are also downsides in relation to its use (Berschler 2009). Hence, it is expected that some are entirely not in support regarding the continuous use of computers in the realm of business management, while others are completely confident about its use. Therefore, the general aim of this article is to provide an overview of how computers are business. In the process, the reasons as to why businesses utilize computers, what distinctions do businesses that utilize computer systems develop as opposed to businesses that do not, and the positive and negative effects of computers will all be discussed.

Computers in Businesses

            In general, the use of computer systems defines and develops a business unlike that of a business that does not utilize computer systems at all. Computer systems are used in business environments due to its capability to enhance the reach or scope of the business, provide further insights into the organization and its competitors, and better organize documents and customer-related information as well (New Zealand Government [NZG] 2009). In this sense, the main reason as to why businesses use computer systems is that not only does it allow better information management, but it also allows for further improvements especially in relation to potential customers. Thus, if these are indeed the effects of computers to businesses, then there should in fact be notable differences between businesses that utilize computers and businesses that do not. In fact, businesses that use computer systems are able to reduce cost, increase ties between clients, suppliers, employees, and the management, and are capable of reaching more business outlets than businesses without computer systems (Kioskea Computing Community [KCC] 2008). Hence, it is clear that the trend in terms of the use of computers in business is not baseless as there are indeed numerous advantages entailed with its application.

Negative Impacts

As mentioned, even though there are numerous praises and benefits associated with the use of computers in business, negative aspects related to its use are also present and common. For one, it is a fact that upon certain situations, the use of computers in businesses may be more of a liability than an asset. If the use of computer systems is not well-planned and the budget and operating costs are not completely assessed, then it might become inefficient (McKeever 2007: 199). In addition, being of no beneficial use in certain situations, computer systems also require additional time before being completely useful. The need for training and struggling through the learning curve which depends upon the application are also an issue (McKeever 2007: 199).  Aside from inefficiency in certain scenarios, risks upon security are also associated with the use of computers in businesses. The potential risks associated with computer systems are generally regarding the issue of data theft and information-based security breach which are commonly the fault of negligent actions of employees (GFI Software 2009: 1). Besides, the negative points discussed there are also concerns about the possible occurrence of lowered productivity as well. The number of employees that only act as if they are working and yet in reality are simply doing away with personal amusement through web-based applications such as chat programs are relatively abundant (Steingold and Shroeder 2007: 226).

Conclusion

            As discussed, there are a lot of positive points regarding the use of computers in business from its most simple to most complex operations. In general, computer systems have been able to gain recognition and praise throughout the business community as these computer systems considerably allowed more growth than previously thought. Considering the negative side of the use of computers in businesses, it is quite obvious that all of the problems mentioned can be solved if the management takes every aspect into careful consideration. For example, the possibility of computers being more of a liability than an asset can be overturned by complete analysis and planning prior to choosing a specific computer system. As for the employee-based problems, properly placing and imposing fair but effective rules is a possible solution. It does not take complicated reasoning to think of possible solutions to these problems, but of course, further research is required in order to assess how effective the solution can be. Therefore, given that computers have allowed businesses to grow especially due to its capability to enhance the marketing capacity of businesses, and with its problems being solved at the management level, it is in fact proven that computer systems have become essential to the current businesses and will continue to be relevant throughout the years yet to come.

List of References

Berschler, B.I. (2009) How Digital Technology Affects Your Business Relationships [online]       available from <http://www.berschlerlaw.com/Articles-1.shtml> [19 May 2009]

GFI Software (2009, March) The GFI Software SME Security Report – GFI White Paper           [online] available from             <http://www.gfi.com/documents/articles/SME_UK_survey_results.pdf> [19 May             2009]

Kioskea Computing Community (2008, October 16) Introduction to e-Business [online] available from <http://en.kioskea.net/contents/entreprise/e-business.php3> [19 May         2009]

New Zealand Government (2009) Creating a Business Advantage with Technology [online]       available from <http://www.business.govt.nz/Technology-and-e-business/Using-  technology-in-your-business/Creating-a-business-advantage-with-technology.aspx> [19 May 2009]

McKeever, M. P. (2007) How to Write a Business Plan. 8th Edition. California, U.S.A.:  NOLO Publishing.

Steingold, F. and Shroeder, A. The Employer’s Legal Handbook. 8th Edition. California,

U.S.A.: NOLO Publishing.