Introduction
The management and operation of enterprises with multiple chain stores often presents unique challenges. The high number of customers, transactions and supplies that are experienced in these chain stores often requires a proper flow of information. This requires the development and implementation of an appropriate information system that meets the needs of the enterprise.
Internal actors in the business process
These refer to forces within the enterprise that facilitate the integration of all activities pertaining to the business. The enterprise offers several products, to different customers in different locations. The information system will work to ensure that the right products are availed to customers in different locations in a timely and reliable manner. This will help create customer loyalty.
External actors in the business process
These pertain to the outside forces that have an impact on the flow of information within the enterprise. The information system should address the tax requirements imposed by the respective state governments in which they operate in. the sales tax on each product should reflect on the records and receipts of all the products sold.
Scope of the project
The information system is expected to enhance the flow of information across three basic activities. First, all sale of products purchased by customers should be properly recorded and tallied. Inventory into and out of the enterprise should also be closely monitored using the first in first out basis. This will help reduce pilferage of products.
Finally purchase orders to suppliers should be made in a transparent manner which permits awarding of tenders to the most worthy suppliers. The information system will provide clear guidelines on the tendering system. The suppliers will be expected to meet the delivery requirements of the enterprise by availing first hang information to them.
Objects of the information system
The information system will lay emphasis on three main objects. These are the customer, product and inventory. It will ensure that customers in different locations are able to access the same type of products at reasonable prices. It will also ensure that the customers are able to transact efficiently without any inconveniences.
The information system will address aspects of product features adequately. Many customers are sensitive about the quality and quantity of the products that are offered for sale by the business. It is therefore necessary that the enterprise obtains a proper feedback mechanism about its products. This is because the quality and quantity of products offered reflect on the sales made by the enterprise.
Inventory management is another important aspect that will be addressed by the information system. Sales made have an impact on the amount of inventory available. This is an important issue that has to be addressed by the information system. Increase in sales level should reflect as decrease in inventory levels.
Attributes necessary for each business process
Product development
In order to ensure that the enterprise maximizes on its sales, the products should be improved on in terms of quality.
Inventory management
A sound information system should ensure that inventory is closely monitored as it moves into and out of the enterprise. This will help reduce accumulation of inventory.
Customer satisfaction
The data gathered about the customers will be used to develop products that satisfy customer wants and needs. It is also important in ensuring good service delivery.
Behaviors necessary for each business objects
Customers will be categorized according to the types of products that they purchase, the number of transactions that they conduct, and the amount of money that they spend. Products will be classified according to their durability, frequency of supplies, amount of sales tax they attract etc Inventory will be checked in terms of the frequency of supplies, number of orders.
Conclusion
The enterprise information system will ensure that all the activities of the business are coordinated in an integrated manner. This will ensure the smooth functioning and coordination of all of the enterprises activities.
