Small Business Databases: Could You Use One?

Do you need a database? Do you complete a lot of repetitive paperwork? Do you want your information organized so you can find it quickly? Do you do a lot of the same number crunching in order to get important data? Do you need a way to quickly identify sales, marketing and production trends? Do you have a lot data that is not being used for business intelligence? Do you want all of the above done using an inexpensive program? If you answered “yes” to any of the above questions, then you need a database.

Organizes Customer Contact Information Merchandise Sales Orders Any data and makes it useable. Processes Sales Reports by date, merchandise, customer, salesperson, or region. Inventory Reports Invoices Mailing labels Reports, reports, reports Databases organize, analyze and process data. Analyzes Charts and graphs Planning and forecasting Trends

A database such as the one shown below can be used to keep track of your clients or business leads. A report can easily print out all of their information.

Databases can also be used to handle order entry, merchandise and product information, and invoicing.

Most fields in an order form can be programmed to automatically populate with data.Most fields in an order form can be programmed to automatically populate with data. By using the drop down list in the Bill To box and selecting a client, all fields relating specifically to that client will be filled in. Also, all information for the item will be filled in automatically once the item number is entered. Subtotals and all relevant information will be calculated for you.

Databases are powerful business tools that maintain quality information, enable better decision making, and identify new opportunities. SVA databases are very affordable for the small business. It’s an investment that will pay for itself.