COMPUTERIZED INFORMATION SYSTEM FOR SMALL BUSINESS ENTERPRISE (CASE STUDY TEXACO FILLING STATION)

ABSTRACT: This study was conducted on the premise that if quality business information is provided to small business enterprises, socio-economic transformation could be achieved. The study emanated from the problem where business enterprises were found to depend on “word of mouth” and “Pen/paper method” rather than any meaningful formal mechanism for accessing information efficiently. The aim of this study was, therefore, to design an information system for small business enterprises using Texaco Filling Station as the case study. Using interviews, information about business flow was collected from business policy-makers in Texaco Company. The main findings indicate that Texaco Filling Station is lagging behind in the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). There is lack of familiarity with changing technology – especially the Internet. Although the company is making a fundamental contribution to Nigeria’s economy, they face serious challenges, such as insecurity of data, lack of trained information professionals and appropriate technology to access electronic information.

The study concludes that the company need an efficient, effective mechanism to provide the required business information flow. Hence, a computerised information system (CIS) was designed to address their needs. The developed system uses web-based technologies to provide smooth business flow in terms of finance management, staff management and economic information as well as contact information. PHP programming language was used for the system front-end design while MySQL database was used for data storage. Information are processed by means any internet enabled device.