Large corporations, casinos and other organizations increasingly rely on computer technology to operate their businesses, but many are not taking the additional important step of integrating separate databases. While implementing new technology is generally a net plus, businesses need to take heed and make sure separate information technology systems are able to communicate with one another. To ensure a productive and efficient work environment, it is critical that they consolidate various business applications into one common database, or at the very least provide workable interface software between various crucial systems.
While executives may purchase premier software products, it’s important to be able to link the different systems together. Many workplace environments, including casinos, often focus on what a particular application can do for their business without realizing the impact the program can have if it can’t communicate with existing systems.
As technology progresses, executives find that new products address the need for information containment. For example, in the highly competitive gaming industry, casinos continually search forways to manage more data in the most cost-effective, secure manner possible. As a result, gaming companies may install several data management products to process transactions and track information. Large casinos often rely on a multitude of independent systems for various technology functions, such as separate tracking systems for slot machines, keno games, race and sports book wagers, and dealer-to-player ratios. Cooperative software systems can be adapted to work together and exchange information between programs. This, in turn, would save the casino money and allow it to be more efficient in dealing with customers.
In addition, top management faces increased pressure for accurate accounting practices. Because past accounting scandals and stock market debacles have demanded more scrutiny on accurate accounting records, casinos and other public companies rely heavily upon software systems to provide detailed reports to meet the audit and accounting requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission.
In all businesses, it’s important for executives to create a technology strategy that fully supports business objectives. For example, if an organization’s goal is to increase its customer base, then it would be a wise move to monitor customers’ spending habits. This could be accomplished through technology and established databases, which allow for the tracking of customers’ actions and behaviors. The technology needs to have a common approach within all departments of the business in order to accurately monitor the customers and keep track of valuable information relating to them.
Citing a gaming environment example again, the reporting and analysis of information in a casino is equally as important as the mere tracking of gaming data. IT departments must work to merge varying data tracked by numerous software systems. A computer consultant with program expertise can access applications and link them in one common database through system interface, a means of communication between software packages and systems. Companies such as IT Strategies review and implement systems and build interfaces and bridges so different business departments can see exact processes and numbers for management reporting purposes.
The benefits of bringing in a qualified information technology consultant and establishing an IT structure could directly affect the bottom line. Without integration, businesses could lose valuable information and create inconveniences for customers. Lack of systems integration can defeat the purpose of their technology investment.
