Computers store information in form of rows and columns. Whether you are running a business that offers a service or product, the truth is that you have volumes of data to manage. It could be a client mailing list, list of debtors or that of creditors. Debtors are individuals or other businesses that owe you money for goods or services sold to them. On the other hand, creditors are the opposite of debtors. These are businesses or people whom your business owes money.
Information Management has come of Age
With this information at hand, you must find a way of keeping it somewhere safe. Long before computers came into existence, businesses were storing information in files and folders. These then found storage in filing cabinets and shelves. Some businesses still use paper filing systems. Others have done away with paper systems completely. Nonetheless, it is the way you manage data that determines how your business functions. These days, technology has gifted entrepreneurs, with a host of database solutions.
Hyperion Financial Management (HFM) is an Oracle-based system designed for business use. The system has all the features needed for:
- Entering of daily business transactions
- Production of reports
- Preparation of periodic financial reports
- Analysis of business performance
As it were, since there are volumes of data at stake, no business can function effectively without an efficient database. In this regard, your choice should be dependent on volume, memory capability, cost, security and performance. These help you to centralize as well as analyze customer information any time you need to.
Spend Time and Save Money
The decision to choose database software has never been an easy one to make. You are looking at a solution that will meet your needs for the short and long term. You had better spend a lot of time sourcing for the ideal software but end up with a solution that will eventually save you money. One obvious thing is that, for as long as you are in business, the process of data collection will never stop.
Transitioning from One Process to Another
It is not always that you are acquiring a database management system for the first time. You could be having an obsolete system. It might also be that you are not getting the best out of what you are using at present. If you are in such a predicament, the best way out is to hire a database consultant. Involve your employees too. In any case, they are the people who interact with your computer systems on a daily basis.
Other Issues to Consider
A server-based database platform is ideal for businesses with complex and voluminous data. On the other hand, a desktop based platform works perfectly where you are running a small or medium sized enterprise. Web-enabled databases are ideal where flexibility is the ultimate goal. A hosted option would be most appropriate. This enables users to log into the system using a browser. Whichever option you settle for, let it be driven by your business needs.
