allows reps to visit the store and act as consultants and account managers. The rep's palmpads, enable the reps to retrieve sales data, track inventory, and link stores. The information will aid the reps in determining manufacture discounts to retailers. Which enables the retailers to hold sales and price cut to pull in the price conscious consumers. Specific information requested by the reps is made available. "The server processes database requests and the client takes the results and works with them. Thus, with client/server computing, as much of the processing as possible is performed on the server before the requested data and information are transmitted to the client. This means specific information, not complete files or large sections of databases, are transmitted to the client (Senn, 1995, p. 404)."Many stock analysts feel that Helene Curtis is well positioned for future growth. As evidence, they cite the company's ongoing introduction of new, higher-priced brands and its investment in the information systems needed to provide good retail service. What might these predictions mean for Helene Curtis's competitors? Helene Curtis competitors need to invest in an information system. Potential investors are looking not only for a good product, but also an information system that will aid in providing for retail service. The information system will allow companies to track of sales data of its competitors. Also, the system will increase productivity. Companies will be able to compete with new products or price discounts, or whatever else their competitors are handing out. The information has to be easily accessible to employees and provide quick feedback. "All of this means faster access to data and information, better service for customers, quicker responses to changes in the business environment, more efficient business power, fewer errors, and in general, higher levels of productivity (Senn, 1995, p. 404)." Client/S...
