WHAT A DATABASE CAN DO FOR ME

REPORTING
Reporting can answer many questions quickly about a business. For example:
o How many sales did I have last month?
o What sold the most?
o What are my busiest months?
o Who do I have on staff?
o Where are most of my customers located?
o What tasks are left in order to complete this job?
o How long does it typically take to complete this type of job?

Having reports at your finger tips will allow a company to quickly understand the key areas of their business.

Operational Efficiency
A database can help streamline a business process and ensure the right steps are being taken at the right time. For example, to finish a task you must complete step 1, step 2, and step 3 prior to completion or passing the project on to the next department. A database/application can ensure that employees are following these steps precisely and ensure that all required pieces of data are gathered at each step.

In addition, a database can reduce the dependency a business has on key people. For example, if there is a key employee at your firm who knows all the right questions to ask at the right time, a database can be programmed to force a user to ask the right question under the right circumstances.

Data Storage
Having a central place to store data means less time searching for information in file cabinets or in separate word documents.

Data Integrity
Putting the correct data in the correct area can reduce errors and time. A database can force users to populate required fields and ensure that garbage values are not being put into a system.