I will have access to this database so that I can correctly and quickly inform clients or vendors about the status of their products. The products inventory database should include item/SKU number; date of acquisition; quantity in stock; item description; number of pending orders from clients; number of pending orders from vendors; cost; selling price; and weight, for the purposes of shipping and receiving. If we maintain the products inventory database, we will not risk running out of items prematurely, or overstocking our shelves. We would also ensure that our pricing accurately reflects our costs.
2. I also recommend creating a database to maintain client and vendor records. Because we are a small and new company, the use of databases in this area has had limited use. However, our vendor list currently tops fifteen, and we have over twenty-five clients. It is becoming increasingly difficult to maintain accurate records of both vendors and clients. Starting the database now will save time in the future and ensure a smooth transition to electronic data maintenance. Information we would include in the client and vendor database would include basics such as company name, address, and contact information. We would also want to maintain records of business transactions so that we will be aware of our best, most trustworthy clients.
3. Intensive, thorough training in the use of database systems, in particular Microsoft Access, will increase productivity. It is unacceptable that so few company personnel have...
Intimidation results from ignorance, and the only way to correct for the lack of familiarity with Microsoft Access is to provide training for office personnel. All personnel using databases should be required to attend the training sessions, including personnel from shipping and receiving and from the warehouse. The training could entail an in-house workshop or an outsourced program at a local college or university. At the request of management, I will investigate the options and make an informed recommendation.
CONCLUSION
Creating three databases, one for products inventory, one for vendor information, and one for client information, should take no more than one or two days. We will lose little in terms of time or resources, especially as this is our slowest time of the year. I would recommend getting started on the new database projects as soon as possible, to eliminate any lag time.
Similarly, I would recommend commencing the training program as soon as possible. I can compose a company-wide memo pertaining to the training sessions as soon as I investigate our options. We should hold a meeting to discuss these matters further.
Works Cited
References
Chappele, Mike. "Choosing a Database Product." About.com. Online at http://databases.about.com/od/administration/a/choosing.htm.
Chappele, Mike. "Database Fundamentals." About.com. Online at http://databases.about.com/od/administration/a/databasefund.htm..
