A survey conducted by Sysdeco, the software services company, indicates that many system developers are concerned about the costs and problems involved in building applications ‐ maintenance overheads, lifetime cost‐of‐ownership, unreliability. Developers need to build applications which...

Describes the new generation of computerized workflow systems – by automating the flow of documents and procedures throughout an organization, they can increase the accuracy of clerical tasks, and can therefore improve efficiency. Gives examples of areas where such systems can be used...

Data processing has undergone evolutionary changes in the past 30 years. Processing with a database management system offers a number of advantages. Presents the basics of today′s dynamic database management systems. Reviews the relevant professional magazines and concludes that systems now...

A number of factors, including market competitiveness, the legal framework and increasing consumer expectations, are causing a focus on customer service of which complaint handling is a major part. Companies can accrue considerable advantages from taking complaint handling seriously, e.g. use of...

Reports on research which investigated the production deficiencies of a firm manufacturing plastic products, which was also engaged with the Teaching Company Scheme. Owing to inadequate information it was unable to sustain stable operations. A computer‐based Management Information System (MIS)...

At London Underground Ltd (LUL), getting engineers and their equipment to and from site quickly and safely is a major task for its engineering safety support division. A huge DEC VAX database helps the division maximize the time available for track maintenance and repair. The database is the...

The development of computer technology, artificial intelligence, and simulation modelling has become increasingly complex, and yet the application of these techniques is necessary for a company to be effective and competitive. However, the end users may not have the ecessary sophistication to...