Computer Information System Brief: Kudler Fine Foods

Computer Information System Brief
ACC/542
October 30, 2012
Professor Michael Wells

Computer Information System Brief
The owner of Kudler Fine Foods has interest in integrating technology into its business operations and needs some help. The company has asked the accounting firm to prepare a brief that details how computer systems can help meet the needs of the business and improve the accounting operations. Included in this brief is the business and accounting information needs of the company. The brief will also detail the strengths and weaknesses of the company’s current system, opportunities of technology to improve operations, and threats the current system may pose to the company. Last, the brief will offer suggestions
A midrange system would be ideal as it would be able to handle the company’s Internet functions, intranet, and any other software the company uses. Midrange systems are also “less costly to buy, operate, and maintain, and thus meet the computing needs of many organizations” (O’Brien & Marakas, 2008, pg. 82). The company can use the intranet, which is connected to the network, to capitalize on the automated inventory and ordering system, and the purchase module opportunity. With the intranet, employees can monitor inventory and purchasing in real time. Employees at one location can complete all functions, but all locations can have access to the
This will allow access only to those doing the accounting for the company. The company also needs to have written policies. Written policies will outline rules and regulations regarding the security of information. Written policies will also explain how to keep information secure and what to do if there is a security breach. Included in the policies should be consequences of not following the rules and regulations. The company needs to have backup procedures in case the system crashes. The system should be set to back up every other day or everyday to ensure not to lose too much information. To better protect confidential information from intrusion, the company should have some firewall protection. A firewall “guards against unauthorized access to sensitive file information from external internet users. On networked systems, firewalls are often standalone devices with built-in, protective software” (Bagranoff, Simkin & Strand, 2008, pg. 39). The company should also invest in anti-spyware and anti-virus protection to protect the system from any viruses. Following the above suggestions will help minimize any threats to the company’s current system.
Kudler’s current retail management enterprise system is working for them but could use some upgrading to enhance the company’s operations. Kudler has to network its computers so