Era Technological IMS Development
Milestone
Pre-1950s Manual Record- Paper-based systems
Keeping
1950s-1960s Mainframes, Batch Centralized processing
Processing (payroll, etc.)
1970s DBMS, Online Relational databases,
Processing DSS
1980s PCs, LANs, Client- Desktop software,
Server departmental systems
1990s ERP, CRM, Internet Enterprise systems, e-
commerce
2000s Cloud, Big Data, Mobile Cloud ERP, analytics,
Computing mobile apps
2010s+ AI, IoT, Blockchain, Smart factories, AI-
Smart Systems driven decisioning
Applications of Information Management Systems (IMS)
IMS has numerous applications across industries and business functions. Here are the key areas:
1. Business Operations
● ERP Systems: Integrate business processes like production, procurement, HR, and
finance.
● SCM (Supply Chain Management): Optimize the flow of goods, reduce inventory costs,
and improve supplier relationships.
● CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Improves customer engagement, increases
sales, and enhances customer service.
2. Decision Support and Analytics
● Business Intelligence (BI) Tools: Use data analytics and visualization (like Power BI,
Tableau) to support strategic decisions.
● Predictive Analytics: Forecasts future trends in sales, supply chain demand, and
customer behavior.
3. Financial Management
● Accounting Software: Systems like QuickBooks, Xero, and SAP automate payroll,
invoicing, and financial reporting.
● Fraud Detection Systems: AI and ML identify abnormal transactions and prevent financial
●
fraud.
4. Human Resource Management (HRM)
● HR Information Systems (HRIS): Automate employee records, payroll, recruitment, and
training.
● Employee Self-Service Portals: Allow employees to access payslips, leave requests, and
performance feedback online.
5. Customer Service and Marketing
● CRM Software: Tracks customer interactions, manages sales leads, and automates
marketing campaigns.
● Chatbots and AI Assistants: Provide 24/7 customer support through automated
responses and self-service options.
6. Production and Manufacturing
● Manufacturing Execution Systems (MES): Track and control production processes on the
factory floor.
● IoT-Enabled Predictive Maintenance: Sensors and IoT devices detect potential failures
before they happen.
7. Healthcare and Medical Services
● Electronic Health Records (EHRs): Store and manage patient health data for healthcare
providers.
● Telemedicine Systems: Enable virtual doctor consultations and remote patient monitoring.
