Abstract
In this article, the writer discusses that the computer has facilitated a number of office processes, automating certain tasks and extending the reach of the average worker in the process. The writer discusses that office automation is achieved through the integration of office information functions, such as word processing, data processing, graphics, desktop publishing, and e-mail.

From the Paper
"Such software is also available for the home PC user and provides a wide variety of capabilities that many people take advantage of by installing the necessary software and often by linking to other computers and computer systems for transfer of information, software, processes, and so on. Office automation is achieved through the integration of office information functions, such as word processing, data processing, graphics, desktop publishing, and e-mail. Some form of LAN is necessary and allows ..."

Tags:office, automation, collaboration

Abstract
This paper analyzes the pitfalls of automation within the cockpit. It discusses the advantages and disadvantages of automation and the problems that can be created by a pilot relying too heavily on automation. The paper examines whether cockpit automation is worthwhile overall or whether the inherent problems in automation are overtaking the underlying benefits.

Table of Contents:
Abstract
Introduction
Advantages and Disadvantages of Automation
Studies Conducted to Analyze the Impact of Automation within the Cockpit, with Suitable Examples
The Need to Bring in Automation
Accidents that Took Place because of Automation within the Cockpit
Conclusion

From the Paper
"In conclusion, it must be said that although there are differing views on whether automation is really essential to the aviation industry in general and to the cockpit in particular, it is true that without automation, the human beings manning the aircraft would feel much more burdened and stressed than if a part of their duties were to be taken over by automation. Therefore, it is clear that although automation can indeed bring with it several problems of the nature described in this paper, it may be very difficult in this technology advanced world of today for a pilot to manage his aircraft without the aid of a computer. The secret may be that the pilot must not depend too much on the automation; he must remain aware and wary at all times of what is happening within the aircraft when he is manning it. This would put him into a better position of being able to handle a problem when it arose, instead of flailing helplessly when the aircraft was crashing. Automation must be, therefore, brought in to the cockpit, but within certain specific limits, so that the disadvantages or automation do not outweigh the advantages."

Tags:pilot, aircraft, autopilot, crash

Abstract
Process automation has revolutionized the way that organizations do business and has led to the downsizing of many companies. There are a variety of technology products that are available through process automation which make business operations simpler and less expensive. This paper discusses process automation and the impact that it has on downsizing. It discusses the technologies that are available and why these technologies are important to the overall business strategies of corporations.

From the Paper
"According to a whitepaper entitled Requirements and Characteristics of Process Automation, process automation is defined as "Automatic control of an organization's processes, policies, and communications using computer technology which brings about improved productivity and quality." (Matthews) The whitepaper, published by Cypress technologies, states that effective process automation is designed to improve manual processes within an organization. (Matthews) The whitepaper also explains that there are three methods that can be used to produce an effective process automation system."

Tags:downsizing, technology, business, strategy

Abstract
This paper describes how office automation and group collaboration software is used in a food service distribution organization. It includes a brief analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of each software type used, the type of software recommended and the advantages and disadvantages of each recommendation. This paper furthermore provides an analysis of the use of databases in a food service distribution organization. It includes the type of database applications used, along with proposed improvements.

Table of Contents:
Abstract
Office Automation, Group Software and Database Applications
Database Uses
Proposal for Improvements
Conclusion

From the Paper
"Microsoft Exchange and Microsoft Outlook have proven to be an excellent resource of group collaboration software at PFG. Microsoft Exchange has allowed PFG to automate office functions like filing, typing, copying, and faxing. Microsoft Outlook makes scheduling appointments and meetings easy. The Microsoft Outlook calendar and corresponding viewing functions allow associates across the corporation to stay up-to-date with the latest appointment and meeting information. Microsoft Exchange and Outlook are office automation tools that provide extensive benefits to PFG. With database applications, data can be imported and managed more efficiently than through manual processes. Stored data results in professional reports, documents and letters through simple programming commands. Since a database application helps a business keep track of important business information, a database application program is a good investment for any business organization."

Tags:distribution, collaboration, programming

Abstract
This review provides an analysis of the key features of a comprehensive HRIS system. It also looks at the various ways a system can assist employees, managers and external customers within the global enterprise. The paper suggests that there are multiple benefits associated with automation and it discusses some of these benefits in more detail.

Table of Contents:
Introduction
HR Automation Overview

From the Paper
"There are only two major components required for an HRIS system to work correctly; these include an input and output requirement, or a means of inputting information including information about employees, benefits and business units and a means of providing reports and statistics for individuals within the organization to interpret effectively (Cathcart & Kovach, 1999; Adams, 1992). These two requirements work well for people at all levels of the organization, including employees, managers and external customers. There should be some level of security built within the HRIS system to allow various employees, managers or external customers access to authority appropriate data."

Tags:employees, customers, evaluation

Abstract
The paper reviews Mary Ann Davidson's article "The Future Is Now: More Security Automation Means Less Finger Lifting" on the new Oracle Database. The paper discusses how she compares the launch of this program to the old Jetsons cartoon - an odd choice, given that this is a dated cartoon, while many of the users of Oracle are very young. However, the paper shows how the point she wishes to make is reflected in the title of the article: the new Oracle 11g automates several more functions, thus freeing up more personnel time for other functions, such as security.

From the Paper
"Mary Ann Davidson's article "The Future Is Now: More Security Automation Means Less Finger Lifting" is a review of the new Oracle Database. She compares the launch of this program to the old Jetsons cartoon - an odd choice, given that this is a dated cartoon, while many of the users of Oracle are very young. However, the point she wishes to make is reflected in the title of the article: her essential point is that the new Oracle 11g automates several more functions, thus freeing up more personnel time for other functions, such as security. On the subject of security, Davidson also notes that the new Oracle Database 11g comes with two..."

Tags:business, oracle, security

Abstract
This paper discusses supply chain automation for Imperial Tobacco Canada. It evaluates how automating their supply chain through the use of distributed order management systems and better integration with suppliers and distributors will increase transaction velocity and increase financial performance of the company. The paper also discusses how to measure these improvements.

Table of Contents:
Executive Summary
Introduction and Description of the Organization
Assumptions and Scope
Major Issues
Objectives
Analysis
Recommendations and Plan of Action
Conclusion

From the Paper
"The third recommendation is to thoroughly plan to create a Service Oriented Architecture (SOA) specifically for integrating the distributed order management systems together globally. Once this is achieved British American Tobacco will have a significant competitive advantage in terms of transaction velocity, greater insights into their existing operations, and the ability to launch and sustain products through its distribution channel with greater profitability. The bottom line of these three recommendations together is a significant jump in inventory turns, Return on Assets (ROA) and Return on Investment (ROI)."

Tags:distribution performance, transaction velocity

Abstract
The paper describes the business record automation project and outlines the many responsibilities and skills that a person must have to manage a project. The paper goes on to show how the project manager in this case failed to meet the requirements in many of these areas. The paper specifically highlights the failure of communication and the lack of guidance and monitoring in this project.

Outline:
Background
The Project and Issues
Lessons Learnt and Conclusions

From the Paper
"This case study is a good example of failure of communication, lack of guidance and monitoring and enthusiasm running haywire. Young Gibson appears to be too keen to take all the credit of implementing the project and appears to avoid involving even the stake holders in the project. The Sales Office supposed to use the program was kept in the dark and even the Director Sales Farley was not kept in the loop.
"Director of Finance, Smith, did not check the status of the project for 6 months, He did not advise Gibson on launching the project in phases or continuing with the manual system until the project was de-bottlenecked.
"The main problem area in this case study is that of communication. "Communication is like engine oil: it needs to be applied to the machinery or the machinery will not start or, if it does, it will quickly falter and grind to a halt. Too little or too thin and it is not effective; too thick or too much and everything just gets gummed up, It's the same with communication [Bruce & Langdon, 2000]". In cases of virtual teams such as InsureTech where some members never get to see each other, accurate exchanges are even more important. Work involving staff in different locations removes the non-verbal part, some 60% of normal person-to-person communication. Even in video conferencing, this component is seriously filtered by the medium."

Tags:communication, guidance, management, deadlines

Abstract
This paper describes how the Department of Parks and Recreation in several states has instituted office automation and how this has affected its services to the community it serves.

From the Paper
"The article by Avrasin describes some of the changes made by various branches of the Parks and Recreation Department in different states as they start to automate their offices. Up until recently the departments had relied on index cards and shoe boxes to file away such data as attendance records and enrolment in classes. The article gives examples such as Fairfax County Virginia which streamlined all its point-of-sale systems with the help of Arizona-based Beta Data Systems which custom-designed an integrated database that would eventually add registration reporting ..."

Tags:computerization

Abstract
This report consisted of a review on automation and its effects on medication errors. The problem and other key terms were defined and its importance and scope was then discussed. The literature was then reviewed and it consisted of studies on the efficacy of information technologies generally as well as of studies pertaining to one specific type of technology-- the computerized physician, the prescription filling robot, etc. Offers conclusions and recommendations.

From the Paper
" The National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention defines a medication error as follows: A medication error is any preventable event that may cause or lead to inappropriate medication use or patient harm while the medication is in the control of the health care professional, patient or consumer. Such events may be related to professional practice health care products, procedures and systems including prescribing order communication product..."

Tags:automation, medication errors