What do I need to know about databases?

Technically speaking, a database is a collection of information arranged for ease and speed of search and retrieval. A computerized database uses software to organize the collection and storage of the information and allows a person or computer program to collect any additional information. Simply put, a database holds all your shared information such as customers, contacts, suppliers, product information, and sales history--everything you and your enterprise use daily.

The software used to establish this database is the database management system. iTeam offers customized database management systems to store, manage and retrieve information. These systems offer custom designed software that are most efficient and cost effective for each individual business need.

Most people are familiar with data storages such as OpenOffice, Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Access and use these tools to maintain all of their information. There are pros and cons to systems such as these. For example, unless the information is shared over a network on a server, there is a chance of overlap, double entry and often only one person may access the file at a time. Such systems appear inexpensive because most businesses already have an office application; however they quickly become time consuming when working with more than one spreadsheet. As businesses grow, customizing your system becomes a necessity to increasing business efficiencies, minimizing training and reducing other associated costs.

Business needs vary for each company, an example of some of the forms of customized software include:

• Increase your employee productivity
  • Reduce your employees paper work
  • Eliminate double entries with automation
• Increase reporting capabilities
• Retrieve Real time information for everyone
  • Increase efficiencies
  • Increase customer satisfaction
• Reduce training time for new employees
• Access and enter information on your blackberry or PDA
• Easily import and export information in any format
• Software enabling access to the database over the internet
• Create database securities which limit the access of the information
• Synchronize or auto-generate formulas and/or calculated fields to automatically update your data

iTeam offers turn-key databases which are easily implemented with minimal training, as well as integrated databases that are modifications to your current system.

Your business can make improvements to information management in a variety of ways. These improvements can range from small enhancements at a minimal cost, to a complete over-haul of your existing system. Each business has its own separate needs--a customized database system is often the most efficient and cost effective way to manage these needs.

If you have any further questions regarding the services offered by iTeam, feel free to contact one of our Business or Systems Analysts for a free no obligation consultation.

For more information about our company, visit the iTeam Website