Dell Computer Corporation - Research Paper Example

Dell's inventory management system will also be discussed along with its importance.

Management Information Systems
Fundamentally, information systems can be categorized as transaction processing systems (TPS), management information systems (MIS), and Expert systems (ES). Moreover, MIS can be further categorized as Decision Support System (DSS) and Executive Information System (EIS). In general, the role of MIS in terms of a DSS is to analyze and process business data that will aid business decision-making efficiently (Nowduri, 2011). For instance, MIS provides comparative sales figures for about a week, revenue figures projected on assumptions of a new product, and a history of decisions or workarounds performed (Nowduri, 2011).

Dell Computer Corporation
Dell founded in 1984 by Micheal Dell, is one of the biggest computer manufacturing companies on the planet that provides personal computers, computer peripherals, and associated software. Dell sells its products to end users via online stores and mail orders. The organization is located in Texas and enjoys a very strong brand image that supports its growth (DATA MONITOR: Dell inc.2009). Likewise, Dell is listed in the top 100 brands of the world and its brand value is $11,695 million, as per the annual raking 2008 report (DATA MONITOR: Dell inc.2009). Similarly, apart from the strong brand value and robust market position, there are flaws in some product segments along with feeble research and development outputs. Moreover, Dell is currently dependent on third-party services along with a contraction in end markets, these two factors can be considered as threats (DATA MONITOR: Dell inc.2009).
Dell Information Automation
Information automation is considered to be an examination and analysis of data organization. Likewise, it is most commonly used in businesses, science and technology, and engineering and covers almost all areas of computing usage. Businesses use automation techniques and methods for performing tasks such as payroll processing, accounts, record keeping, inventory management, sales scrutiny, bank account statements, and credit card statements. Similarly, the engineering sector utilizes these methods and techniques for numerous applications associated with mineral and oil exploration. Moreover, the analysis associated with new product design and scientific experiments also utilizes data processing (Kedar, 2009). Data processing or information automation is divided into two categories i.e. database processing and transaction processing. As a database is a collection of data that can be extracted, changed, or accessed, data can be associated with banks, financial institutions, income tax, salary, contact number, etc. similarly, for processing data, a database is utilized that virtually located in the center (Kedar, 2009). Similarly, for the second category, transaction processing is associated with an integration of two workstations that constructs the transaction, and it is backed by data provided by the second workstation. For instance, automated teller machines are a prime example of this category (Kedar, 2009).
The information automation tools that are acquired and utilized by Dell Incorporated utilize the World Wide Web, spreadsheets, maps, various models, and databases. Moreover, for operations functions, Dell focused primarily on the information processing tool named maps. Likewise, the map tool facilitated Dell to make decisions associated with organizational operation initiatives. Moreover, maps were also utilized for determining the location or country to be selected for acquiring information. Furthermore, the map also facilitated in formulating the demographic level associated with people and information gathering. The structure of maps was in the form of charts along with highlighted important information, as the information can facilitate effective operations management within the organization.
For the tactical layer of Dell incorporated, databases played its role, as it was the most adequate component that was fast and robust for information processing capabilities. Likewise, the database was able to save data that can facilitate in searching the strengths and weaknesses of Dell Inc. and can be analyzed for reshaping strategies and operational procedures within the organization.
Lastly, for the strategy layer, Dell utilized the most effective technology i.e. World Wide Web. Likewise, the Internet was utilized for extracting facts and figures associated with competitors. These facts and figures provided trends, technologies, and strategies implemented by other companies or competitors facilitated Dell to reshape its strategy accordingly.

Dell Inventory Information System
The Inventory Information System is a database that is used for saving and administering all types of data that are required for error-free warehouse inventory management. Likewise, it may incorporate modules or parameters for tracking all the items and locations, back orders, requisitions, inventory levels, reorder points, lead times, error tracking, and much more. Moreover, these systems can also be integrated with enterprise resource planning applications (What is inventory management information system? definition and meaning ). Similarly, also uses a resilient inventory management system that keeps itself updated and robust for minimizing issues that can arise at any point. Moreover, it also ensures that customer requirements are met at all times. Furthermore, it facilitates the staff by providing information associated with product information, misuse of any product, availability of products in the warehouse, etc.
Conclusion
Management Information systems are in charge of the information flow within the organization. Dell utilizes these systems to earn benefits in terms of information automation and processing that derives new business strategies, and new operational procedures within the organization, and facilitates organizations to minimize risks from threats. Read More