Information_Systems_and_Software_Applications

Information Systems and Software Applications Many departments, such as accounting, finance, and human resources (HR) use multiple software applications and information systems within the company, such as Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. What type of software or system they use depends on the scale and type of business as well as on the department. Each software and system is specific to a company and the company’s needs. Although accounting in a small to mid-sized business may use software such as quick books to process payroll, accounts receivable and payable, billing, invoicing, whereas larger businesses may have their own systems. For example small grocery store may use the quick books to do their own bookkeeping for tax purposes, whereas the large department store, such Target may use ERP system. For accounting ERP simplifies their tasks of cash management, budgeting, even the debt consolidation. ERP provides them with most accurate accounting data in a simple format and it also allows them to easily communicate with other departments within the company. Although ERP system and software may be used in accounting, it is may also be used in finance departments of larger companies. In finance department ERP system is may be used to project budget and sales, maintain expenses, consolidate billing, product cost, and other various tasks related to finance. ERP in accounting may also be used to monitor depreciation and appreciation of company assets. Because this system is so versatile and it may also be used to communicate within the company, it may also be used in HR for payroll, training, 401K, recruiting, work health and administration, as well as many other tasks that HR performs on daily basis. Goal of ERP is to simplify process of performing business by integrating the departments within the company. However, each department would have to adjust it to its needs because, for example, finance should not have access to sensitive information that HR would need in order to keep track of employees. Although ERP is just one of the available systems and software available for larger businesses there are many others, such as Management Information System (MIS), which refers to computer-based system that helps companies to run their business. In short, depending on the type of business and its needs it is up to the company to choose the best software and systems that would satisfy their business needs.