Information Systems Software Applications

All organizations depend on Information Technology for survival. Imagine companies having to manually calculate millions of customer bills every month. Clearly the clerical effort involved would make it difficult if not impossible for the organization to make a profit. Many organizations would not last 24 hours without Information Technology support. I will be discussing software applications and information systems available for a Human Resources, Accounting, and Marketing Departments.

The function of Human Resources departments is generally administrative and common to all organizations. The HR function consists of tracking existing employee data which traditionally includes personal histories, skills, capabilities, accomplishments and salary. To reduce the manual workload of these administrative activities, software applications are implemented. According to the Business Services Industry, “The payroll module automates the pay process by gathering data on employee time and attendance, calculating various deductions and taxes, and generating periodic pay checks and employee tax reports. The work time gathers standardized time and work related efforts. The benefits administration module provides a system for organizations to administer and track employee participation in benefits programs. The HR management module is a component covering many other HR aspects from application to retirement.” (2002)

Accounting software records and processes accounting transactions within functional modules such as accounts payable, accounts receivable, payroll, and trial balance. It functions as an accounting information system. The Business Encyclopedia states, “Accounting software is typically composed of various modules, different sections dealing with particular areas of accounting. Among the most common are: accounts receivable is where the company enters money received, accounts payable is where the company enters its bills and pays money it owes, general ledger...