Two seemingly unrelated concepts... but are they really? Properly designed software offers plenty of advantages your business can benefit from. Wondering how you can recognize a good information system? Here you are some tips from us:

• It should use standard development means to prevent it from eventually getting into a dead-end lane. Guaranteed support in the future is a must.
• Look for a three-tier architecture with a lean client for it allows you to work over the Internet. All relevant data and settings should be stored at the servers, not at the user workstation. This makes the workstation performance insignificant, resulting in substantial cost reductions.
• It should use multiplatform technology to avoid any problems in case you may need to, let’s say, move to a different operating system in the future. It is important to protect your future IS investments.
• Ask for references from major customers as well. How else can you make sure your solution can successfully cope with any future demands?
• Support interventions via the Internet should also be a must to avoid having to “go around” client stations.
• No batch processes. Get everything on-line. This is essential if you want to be able to react to changing markets and company conditions.
• You should be able to adjust your user interface, data views and reports on your own.