Good timely and accurate information is the life blood of many businesses. Information Technology (IT) can significantly increase the competitiveness of any organisation.
However there is no point in implementing new IT systems in a company if the information is wrong (staff will ignore it), is not timely (will delay processes) or takes too much administration to run (it will make people less efficient).
Conversely IT can dramatically improve the effectiveness of information and the flow of information within an organisation, but must be used recognising its limitations. Good information automation can improve manufacturing and service operations. It can also provide accurate and immediate management data such as orders, profit, cash, quality, clients and flag problems and discrepancies for management to focus on.
There are lots of businesses running out-of-date, incomplete or unfit-for-purpose systems of various kinds.
Owners are rightly wary to address the issues because many providers they talk to will attempt to rip it all out and start again with their own solution, with the resultant budgetary issues as well as the disruption to the business.
In order to implement effective IT we carry out a full process review. This review analyses company process and information, and recognises what is truly important to the business operation and to the management. It then defines which parts can be automated effectively, and identifies when and where human interface and intervention if crucial. Implementation can then take place resulting in improved company performance.
The review is undertaken by an experienced business person and is from the business and commercial perspective. It encompasses process as much as technology. Its aim is to understand the business need and then implementing the appropriate solution, which may in fact be no technology at all!
If you are considering implementing IT for your company processes, or are concerned your current implementation may not be as effective as it should be, then contact our IT systems team at HCBA or call us the where a specialist will be able to advise your business.
