Electronic Data Interchange (EDI) can bring many benefits. It allows orders, invoices and other commercial information to be relayed directly between different firms′ computer networks. Distribution contractors must, like the suppliers, become integrated into these EDI etworks.

Asda Stores Ltd has introduced a system using EPoS data to improve its customer service. Data taken from the EPoS systems are analysed to ascertain checkout activity and then employed to determine a staff scheduling system to cover the checkouts. This system provides a forecast for optimum...

The effectiveness of three training methods in teaching managers leadership principles are examined. Forty‐two male and female Introductory Psychology students were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: computer‐based training (CBT), computer‐based training with videotaped...

Expert systems are frequently mentioned in business circles these days. They have the potential to assist greatly in the dissemination of scarce or complex expertise. But although they can be immensely valuable if properly understood, developed and used, they can also be a waste of resources....

Managers responsible for personal data held on computer need to be aware of and comply with the terms of the Data Protection Act 1984. Registration and compliance with the eight data protection principles are essential requirements. The role of the Registrar in ensuring enforcement of the Act is...

In 1986 Union Carbide introduced a barcode‐oriented and data collection system into their US operation. It replaced time‐consuming, error‐prone manual administrative methods. It integrated well with the existing computer system and was accepted by staff. Significant cost savings were made...

A guide to assist people along the path of software package selection, helping them avoid the pitfalls (including over‐enthusiastic salesmen) is presented. Guidelines to follow are: make sure that what you intend doing is compatible with your company′s strategic goals and plans; conduct a...

The article strongly advocates the need for management to rethink their attitudes to CIM: traditional strategic thinking and traditional costing and accounting systems are not a realistic means of evaluating it.

A revolutionary computer system using a system of colour coding to give information about production in a garment factory is described. Colour‐backing of items indicates: late, becoming late, on time and progress, materials not yet available. These relate to customer, product, promised...