Computerizing Small Business

Central Lakes College's  Computerizing Small Business Program is designed to assist the small business owner through the process of computerization for office and accounting applications. A structured program will be used to analyze current manual systems, evaluate business applications for the computer, identify advantages of computerization, and examine the software and hardware currently available. This program uses a combination of classroom and individualized on-site instruction tailored to the specific business needs.

The mission of the Computerizing Small Business Program is to encourage more businesses to take advantage of the cost savings/productivity improvement opportunities available through office automation by simplifying the computerization process.

Services
The Computerizing Small Business Program will provide assistance in the following areas:

Business Analysis

• Evaluate current business procedures
• Determine which manual systems should be computerized

Feasibility Study

• Cost Effectiveness
• Determine which computerization will be cost effective

Software Evaluation

• The types of software
• The dealer/distributor
• Support offered or provided

Hardware Considerations

• Computer options necessary to operate software selected
• Anticipated growth and future considerations

System Implementation

• Hardware and software training
• Operation of software
• Dual Systems - utilizing computerization, networking and manual systems simultaneously

System Evaluation

• By management, employees, customers
• Recommendations

The tuition charged will be based on the number of credits in which each individual business enrolls and the current cost per credit. Actual enrollment in the program will vary with each business according to their level of computer skills and functions to be computerized. When a business enrolls in the class, any employee may attend the classes, individual training sessions, on-site software evaluations, or system implementation instruction.