Action can then be taken to move stocks between locations and make an additional effort where sales are slow. The efficient production of reports depends on sound data collection and handling systems. Computers have become an essential tool but the extent to which information systems are computerized will obviously depend on the size and capacity of the seed company. What is important is that any system should be well designed and based on a complete understanding of the real, not assumed or apparent, needs of individual managers. Input data required fore management information system together with the resulting output reports are shown in Figure 15.
Internal data are stock records, invoices and payroll records.
External data are information gathered on competitors. Planning reports are not required on a regular basis. Some form of data handling system will be needed to produce the highly summarized information as and when required. Decisions may have to be taken as a result of comparing the actual situation to the plan or budget. Information for such decisions is usually based on internal data and is usually required on a predetermined routine basis, e.g. weekly stock and sales reports.