Hardware and Software

Hardware and Software

Introduction

Software is basically a collection of computer programs that contains specific instructions and tells the computer what to do and how to do. Software is also a collection of data and programs that are stored in the memory of the computer for some specific reasons. On the other hand computer hardware is a collection of the physical equipment that is connected to the computer system for its assistance. It refers to the physical parts which may include monitor, mouse and keyboard etc. The hardware and software of the computer system are very essential as it helps to operate the computer. Any problems that may arise in the hardware and software of the compute will also influence the functions of the computer.

Question 1

Computer system of Bunning's warehouse

Bunning's warehouse is one of the most popular warehouse and hardware chain in Australia. The Bunning's warehouse has its stores located in different parts of Australia and New Zealand. The computer system used by Bunning's warehouse for the warehouse management is CAPITAL warehouse manager. The CAPITAL warehouse manager is a very useful application and tool which control and monitor the movement of products entering and leaving the warehouse.

Strengths and weaknesses

The biggest strength of CAPITAL warehouse manager application is that it has sophisticated barcode scanning system and also an advanced data collection technology. The warehouse manager tool has been very beneficial in reducing the labor costs. Other strengths of the computer system are that it has the potential of improving the customer service and accuracy of the inventory. Moreover, the CAPITAL warehouse manager application is also integrated with the Australian accounting software's and is also capable of scanning the received and dispatched goods from the warehouse. One more strength of the CAPITAL warehouse manager is that it has barcode solutions and interfacing system, which have increased efficiency and effectiveness.

One of the biggest weaknesses is that in order to integrate with any large and complex organization, the CAPITAL warehouse manager application requires a huge and sophisticated team from various IT fields. Another weakness is that it uses paper based manuals for items which are not bar-coded which increase their costs (Abilla, 2011)

Recommendations for improvements

The IT team of the Bunning house must get rid of the manual based picking and packing as it increases their costs. They should provide a barcode to each and every item from the computer so that every item can be monitored through the computer system. The company must also develop processes to regular monitor the traveling time in order to improve the efficiency. The company can also adopt the video picking system. With the help of this system, the management will receive pick orders without looking at the computer screen.

Consultation from experts

In the world of technology, in order to rapidly grow and innovate continuously, it is very essential for an organization to effectively leverage IT resources. Computer or external consultants act as advisor to the IT department and the technical staff. The external consultants are needed so that they can ...