Journeying to a Database System 1

Journeying to a Database System in a Cloud Computing Environment at Downsize Fitness Inc.

Brittini L. Bridges Managerial Applications of Information Technology IS535 (ON) Section J Keller Graduate School of Management March , 2012

Journeying to a Database System 2 Journeying to a Database System in a Cloud Computing Environment at Downsize Fitness Inc. Proposal Topic This proposal discusses the use of ineffective technological usage throughout Downsize Fitness Inc. (Downsize); the effect it has upon operations and propositions a solution. Downsize is a fitness based company that integrates a customized workout and nutrition program to its clients. Currently Downsize does not have a single source of ownership to maintain records for membership nor track the success of their clients which is a crucial component to their business. Seeing that the business is seeking expansion it is imperative to move forward to a format that is will allow for this. Currently, many records are kept in a paper format or simply scanned electronically thus increasing costs in time and money to ensure accurate record retention. This system depletes managements capacity to gather, construe and infer data that is essential in strategic planning and continued output. This indispensable data is in dire straits of a format that is adaptable for their growing business; from management, reporting and day to day operations. Problem The business problem to be solved is how to improve operational efficiencies, effectively utilize IT methodologies at an abridged cost, and develop understanding into the operational management aspects of the company for improved strategic planning and performance monitoring. Applying an "IT Methodology" establishes a degree of structure that project teams leverage (and re-use) to deliver their projects on time and on budget - the more often it is used, the more proficient the project team becomes at applying it - the more proficient they become the greater the savings in time and budget. ( )

Journeying to a Database System 3 Approach Determine if a database set in a cloud computing environment will be an effective way to utilize IT in order to effectively connect management, reporting, and day to day operations. The results will improve the process of reporting and retaining customer information that is imperative to tracking progress and efficiencies. Seeing that this company has two national locations with over 75 customers and is growing daily it is imperative to create a system that can carry over into the expansion efforts and become a staple in their process. Methodology Through the use of direct investigation, it must be determined the boundaries and combined vision for each location. This discovery will investigate the existing process and retention system in order to ensure that there are no unique or special instances that would hinder the usage of one systematic database. If no obstacles are presented other than normal change resistance then discussions will commence with management to seek and present a database that will suffice the current and ongoing needs of Downsize. Within this, the entire process would be overviewed; compatibility, conversion, processes etc. Subject Matter Experts (SMEs), project managers and IT analysts can be exploited to ensure that there is an appropriate database available. Conversion into a single database would serve the company immensely. The time and money spent on maintaining paper records can be costly. It also leaves a vast amount of room for error and delaying their clients overall progress. If the company utilized a database and took this into a cloud setting, it would create a uniform system and greater functionality. Annual costs on printing, ink, and storage would diminish greatly. Also, it would deplete the need for a staff member to dedicate time and efforts into creating a system of record keeping as it would be transcended to a cloud provider. Cloud computing would allow for records to be accessed at

Journeying to a Database System 4 any time, from any location on any client thus reducing the physical space for records and more so for equipment and various physical tools necessary for client usage. Doing so will reduce overhead costs and create a catapult for further expansion. Incorporating one database system will allow for an easier staff/ client experience, reduce inconstancies in client profile and progression efforts; allowing for the space necessary to take the company from 75 customers into 75,000 customers. Doing so will improve reporting and data management which results in better decision making for future endeavors

Journeying to a Database System 5 References Database Administration." Encyclopedia of Small Business. Ed. Kevin Hillstrom and Laurie Collier Hillstrom. Vol. 1. Gale Cengage, 2002. eNotes.com. 13 Mar, 2012 <http://www.enotes.com/database-administration-reference/> English, Larry P. Improving Data Warehouse and Business Information Quality. Wiley, 1999 Roberts, J. (2007, December 23). Implementing and using contact management systems. Retrieved from http://jackroberts.suite101.com/databases-for-small-businesses-a38934 Schultz, Beth. "Warehousing Data Web Style." Network World. July 21, 1997. Watson, C. (2011, March 6). It methodology-offering small and mid-sized businesses (smb's) operational performance and impressive bottom line. Retrieved from http://www.projecttimes.com/articles/it-methodology-offering-small-and-mid-sized-businessessmbs-operational-performance-and-impressive-bottom-line.html