Reference no: EM133492217
Case Study:
From its beginnings as a small-scale one-man firework manufacturing enterprise in New South Wales first established in 1922 to an Australian Pyrotechnics enterprise consulted by major eventing companies all over the globe, Howard & Sons Pyrotechnics remains a family affair, thoroughly enjoying its reputation as a leading fireworks company together with its passionate team of highly trained pyrotechnicians.
Howard & Sons offering fireworks display and pyrotechnic events in all major cities of Australia (Sydney, Brisbane, Adelaide, Melbourne, Perth, Canberra, Gold Coast). The business stores in these cities sell fireworks and related paraphernalia. Each product is ordered and purchased centrally and distributed to the required location by various suppliers. In Australia, fireworks products can only be sold to licensed customers and providers. Regulations and laws may be different between Australian states and territory. Hence, it is important to follow the local government authority department guidelines and legislation.
For this case study, Customers must order all products in person in the stores which are opened from 8am to 9pm every day except Sunday. The salesman in each store can advise customers on their choices of products and safety issues. Each salesman receives a negotiated commission on all of their successful sales.
Due to Covid-19 disruption, the business is not doing well as comparing to before the pandemic. The Howards want to increase the sales and expand the business nationally and internationally. To support any strategic and profitable business movements, the directors need to have a better understanding of the sales, products, market and customers.
Two separate information systems were developed by the Howard & Sons employee many years ago. The inventory management system is used to manage product inventory and order products from suppliers. Kim (inventory manager) and Andrew Howard (director) created this system 20 years ago and has been handling ongoing developments. The system allows automatic reordering when stock levels reach predefined minimum levels, but Kim also frequently uses intuition to make changes to these orders. The sales system is used to support sales and customer interactions. The company accountant Harry, a contractor who joined the company long time ago, and Christian Howard (director) created this system. Harry monitors the company's sales information. Despite the efforts, the company is facing some challenges including:
- Limited access to the customer's information/preferences when staff are taking orders
- Limited security system and protection to the company data and information, including crucial regulation, lawful, legislation requirements and reports.
- Lack of Business Intelligence, system analytics, strategic management tools to support business decisions, activities and processes.
Briefly summarise the case study and the company. Why this project is required. What is the company's current Information System and Technology situation.