Processing is now on line. Even in heavy manufacturing it is common to see monitors on machinery and throughout the factory. Microcomputers perform automatic analyses using data gathered from dispersed systems into spreadsheets or data bases. Instead of seeing reports, people see computers everywhere. While computers are still not as easy and intuitive to use as pen and paper, the ease of use of personal computers has come a long way.
Executives now use computers regularly.
Top management at large firms often uses computers, cooperating in a workgroup structure with administrative and secretarial support staff. These executives tap into corporate information often without realizing that the information they use comes from corporate computer assets around the world. Executive management uses this power to gain and maintain their competitive advantage. Access to real time data, processed through decision support systems, empowers executives to manage operations and set priorities precisely and rapidly. Financial officers apply this power to gaining control of their finances rather than just reporting on them.