e many advantages of computerization, there are multiple pitfalls in attempting to devise an appropriate system. Strom (1994A) discussed the problems just with the installation of E mail, including loss of data security. Rothschild (1994) noted that both voice mail and E mail can lead to information overload and increased employee time handling unnecessary information. Another important problem specific to import export is the sheer volume of individual companies and organizations even a small company would need to connect with. This means that users must choose a gateway system that provides for common ground with the vast majority of their clients, government agencies, etc. This can require either expertise or equipment that is beyond the reach of many small firms (Strom, 1994A).
That is just one example of the potential problems developing from the addition of new technologies. In order to make appropriate choices, it is important to really understand both one's own business requirements and the available hardware and software. In the following pages, the intent is to examine some possible applications of information systems resources to the import export business. In particular, the focus is on applications suitable for a small business that has a central office in one country, with several subsidiary offices in several additional countries, including placements in Europe and the United States. Essentially, the application is to a business that has total employment of less than 100 people, but has impacts on far many more people than that in different industries relying on import export business.
Artificial Intelligence and Expert Systems:
The first, and still most impressive, information processing system that human beings became aware of was the human brain. It is the brain or more accurately, the various conceptions of the brain and its functioning that has served as the model for the development of a...