Technology integration for UMUC Haircuts operational management

UMUC Haircuts

Stage

UMUC Haircuts would certainly benefit integrating some form of technology into its operational model. Currently the company does not even have a single computer to help it manage its transitions and record keeping. The company could also benefit from a basic POS system to offer clients a variety of payment methods as well as input transaction information into the accounting system.

Course Resources (for Weeks 1-5)

Where to find the definitions of Considerations

Usability

The software needs to be extremely easy to use given the fact that there is little technology experience in the company. Currently the company doesn't even have a computer.

Maintainability

The system must also be easy to maintain. A system must be selected with automatic software updates for example.

Scalability

Scalability does not seem like a high priority for the small business. The company does not seem to be pursing new locations however it would like to expand its business in the same location. However, this would be covered in the same platform.

Reliability/Availability

Reliability would be an important consideration for the company as there are no internal software human resource capabilities; that is, an outside consultant would have to help with even the most common problems and the system should be reliable as possible.

Extensibility

The software must be comprehensive enough to focus on the company's core business functions. A basic off the shelf package should suffice.

Portability

The portability of the software is not a high concern. It would probably be nice if the small business owner could update the system from a remote location but this is not entirely necessary.

Security

The system will store some sensitive information about clients including their preferred payment method and credit/debit card information. Thus security would be something of a priority.

Information Quality

The software needs to store specific information about clients that can serve their needs such as appointment information; both past and future appointments.

Authentication

The software could have individual users and require user authentication or it could simply be open to all employees to access the system as a single user.

Business Continuity Plan

The software will need to be able to incorporate the internal capacity additions by the extra services offered at the same location.

Cloud Computing

The software would not have to have any provisions for cloud computing. However, a cloud data backup solution could serve as a way to back up the system.

Enterprise Systems (ERP, CRM, SCM)

The small business does not necessarily need a complete ERP solution and a couple modules would suffice for its specific needs. The CRM system would benefit the business the most by allowing the company to create relationships with its clients.

Networks

The only network requirement would be an internal network. However, web access would be preferential so that the company could email messages about appointments or other marketing messages.

Database, Data Warehouse, Data Mining

The company does not need to maintain a database server and the built in database in the software should meet its needs with no problems. Data mining might be interesting however to see if there are any patterns in its clients demographics or spending habits.

Business-to-Business eCommerce

Business to business ecommerce would be handy in regards to the supply chain management module to help the company with its inventory, but would not be necessary.

Business-to-Consumer eCommerce

Business to consumer ecommerce would be a nice feature in which clients could order their favorite hair care products online however this is also not a necessary option. An online site in which clients could make appointments might be valuable however.

Given the needs of the business, it is recommended that a simple of the shelf software system be implemented. This system should have capabilities to also manage a POS solution so that the company can process payments and update accounting as well as inventory levels. The software should also have a CRM module that will allow the business to manage its client's relationships. For example, a CRM module could make recommendations to prompt the company and the client for upcoming appointment information. Although there are many options for supply chain management, a simple solution will suffice given the company's lack of technical expertise and need for simplicity and reliability.