Operations at Hillerich and Bradsby have significantly improved as a result of the introduction of information technology. This decision was implemented by CEO John Hillerich, the fourth-generation leader. He exhibited good leadership qualities by effectively changing its organizational structure and implementing information technology. This move was fueled by the implementation of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP). This software was installed by a German company called SAP (Reinbolt, 2020) . Despite the difficulty in adaptation, the company currently enjoys the benefits of EPR.
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a software that helps to integrate, analyze, manage and connect business activities. This has benefited Hillerych and Bradsby by automating most of their operations, thus reducing manual labor. ERP has enabled total visibility in the company by allowing complete access to all activities. This has made it easier for the management to track and audit all transactions in the organization. Centralizing of information also helps in collaboration and streamlining tasks.
Delegate your assignment to our experts and they will do the rest.
Information technology at Hillerich and Bradsby plays the role of improving supply chain management through ERP. It has enhanced the overall operation by shortening lead times and making more efficient deliveries; this is evident because the company realized that more than forty percent of their orders were being shipped on time after the installation of ERP.
Information technology also plays a role in improving customer services and sales operations. As a result of ERP's efficiency in streamlining information, the sales team focused on building and maintaining a relationship with customers instead of developing spreadsheets. The customers can confirm this as the customers reported 90-95 percent satisfaction with the company and its products. This also improves the development of marketing strategies for the products (Reinbolt, 2020) .
Information technology has improved efficiency in carrying out daily tasks. This is because ERP helps train employees on ways to reduce repetitive manual work and focus on revenue-generating activities. Information technology has also helped boost artificial intelligence, which has contributed to predicting demand, generating orders, and tracking products on delivery ("5 Best IT Practices for Small Businesses - Ophtek", 2020) .
Today information technology has become a common practice in the business industry. One of the best information technology practice is backing up of relevant data. Currently, data storage is cost-effective and occupies lesser space because technology has enabled the storage of data in the cloud. Back up schedules are common in the current business world. Mostly, they are accompanied by back up alerts and validation messages. Information technology is also being used to improve cybersecurity by securing firewalls and developing efficient antivirus to block spam and viruses that might affect, destroy, or delete critical data, especially in businesses (Subedi, 2020) . This also protects the system from unauthorized traffic and emails against leakage and unprotected access by using security systems such as MailMarshal.
Information technology practices include the ability to acknowledge and install essential updates in a business software setup. It is vital for hardware and software in a business to be frequently updated to avoid any loopholes that might allow hackers to tamper with essential data. The latest updates give room to improve a system's defense. Another useful information technology practice today is the provision of good technical support. Businesses need technical boosts in their operations. This includes engaging the necessary and competent workforce and involving the required authorities by obtaining licenses to run their technological devices ("5 Best IT Practices for Small Businesses - Ophtek", 2020) .
Database management is a prominent information technology practice. This involves developing maintenance schedules prescribed for each software to keep them in good condition. Engaging trustable and reputable Information technology providers is also a current IT practice in business. Engaging an experienced technician ensures that the technology department is in good hands, thus improving security and promoting good quality products and outcomes. The development of strong passwords to limit and regulate access to data is an ongoing information technology practice. This has helped to improve security, awareness, and vigilance in businesses.
References
5 Best IT Practices for Small Businesses - Ophtek . Ophtek. (2020). Retrieved 15 October 2020, from https://www.ophtek.com/5-best-it-practices-for-small-businesses/ .
Subedi, H. (2020). 5 Information Technology Best Practices for Growing Businesses | Jones IT . Jones IT | Managed IT Services, IT Support, IT Consulting. Retrieved from https://www.itjones.com/blogs/2018/4/it-best-practices-small-business .
Reinbolt, M. (2020). Benefits of ERP | A Look at ERP Advantages & Disadvantages . Selecthub.com. Retrieved 15 October 2020, from https://www.selecthub.com/enterprise-resource-planning/erp-advantages-and-disadvantages/ .
