Many students today do not fully appreciate what it was ✓ Solved

Discuss some current systems to explore what the problems were before they were implemented. Discuss what a current system could do and then talk about what it was like in the “old days.” The following list of systems could be considered for this discussion and it would let students know if the problems are solved or not: Telephone system, Buying a car, Payroll system, Savings accounts, Stock trades, Applying for a mortgage loan, Checking out a book from the library, Buying a book, Paying taxes.

Paper For Above Instructions

In today's fast-paced and technology-driven world, many students are unaware of the significant advancements that have taken place in automated information systems over the years. These systems have transformed various sectors, addressing numerous problems that plagued earlier manual methods. In this paper, we will examine several contemporary systems—such as the telephone system, automobile buying processes, payroll systems, savings accounts, stock trading platforms, mortgage application processes, library systems, book purchasing, and tax payment systems—to highlight the issues they resolved and to illustrate the stark differences with the more tedious “old days.”

Telephone Systems

Before the advent of automated information systems, communication relied heavily on manual processes. Traditional mail was the primary means of exchanging information, which was not only time-consuming but also prone to misdelivery and delays. The introduction of the telephone revolutionized communication by allowing real-time conversations over distances. Modern digital communication tools, including mobile phones and VoIP systems, have made it even easier to connect with others globally, featuring texting, video calls, and instant messaging. In contrast, the cumbersome nature of letters and telegrams in the past created bottlenecks and inefficiencies that could hinder both personal and business communications (Smith, 2020).

Buying a Car

In earlier times, purchasing a car was a labor-intensive process. Prospective buyers relied on newspapers and word-of-mouth recommendations to gather information about available vehicles. They often visited multiple dealerships and physically examined cars, which could involve a lot of time and effort. However, modern automated systems allow users to browse a wide range of vehicles online, comparing prices and features from the comfort of their home. Tools such as online payment systems and virtual tours have simplified the purchasing process significantly (Johnson & Lee, 2021). These advancements have eliminated much of the uncertainty and stress associated with car buying in the past.

Payroll Systems

Prior to automated payroll systems, calculating employees' salaries and managing tax deductions required extensive manual labor. Errors were common, leading to employee dissatisfaction and potential compliance issues. Current payroll systems automate these tasks, ensuring accuracy, timely payments, and compliance with labor regulations. Employees can access their pay stubs and tax documents online, contributing to higher transparency and satisfaction (Williams, 2019). The move from manual calculation to automated payroll is a prime example of efficiency gained through technology.

Savings Accounts

Historically, managing savings accounts could be tedious, requiring regular visits to the bank to deposit or withdraw funds. Account statements were often mailed, leading to delays in tracking financial health. Modern banking platforms have automated these processes, allowing customers to manage their accounts online or via mobile apps. Features such as instant transfers, automatic savings plans, and real-time notifications have empowered users to take control of their finances efficiently (Davis, 2022). The comparison between past and present systems demonstrates the substantial improvements in convenience and accessibility.

Stock Trades

The stock trading environment has undergone a radical transformation from the days of floor trading to online platforms. Previously, buying and selling stocks necessitated the involvement of a broker, leading to increased costs and slower transactions. Today, online trading platforms allow individual investors to execute trades in real time, often with lower fees and improved access to information. Automated trading systems now employ algorithms that can maximize profits and minimize losses much more effectively than human traders ever could (Kim & O’Connor, 2020). The evolution of this system highlights the benefits of efficiency, speed, and reduced costs.

Applying for a Mortgage Loan

In the past, securing a mortgage was a daunting and cumbersome process, involving piles of paperwork and face-to-face meetings with loan officers. The loan approval timeline could stretch for weeks, causing frustrations for both buyers and sellers. Nowadays, automated mortgage lending systems streamline the application process. Borrowers can submit documentation online and receive pre-approval decisions in a matter of days instead of weeks. Technology has integrated risk assessment and document verification, making the process faster and giving borrowers greater insight into their financial standing (Garcia, 2020). The automation of mortgage applications has significantly reduced the associated stresses and uncertainties.

Checking Out a Book from the Library

Before the digitization of library systems, patrons faced long wait times and manual processes for borrowing books. Libraries had to rely on physical catalogs to track available books, and checkout systems involved cards and stamps that were easily lost or misplaced. Today, libraries utilize automated systems that include online catalogs, self-checkout machines, and digital borrowing options. Such enhancements have made the library experience more user-friendly and efficient, offering ease of access to information that was previously difficult to achieve (Miller, 2021).

Buying a Book

Previously, purchasing books involved visiting bookstores or libraries, which could limit selection and accessibility. The emergence of online bookstores, like Amazon, has transformed this experience. Readers can now access an extensive array of books instantly from their homes. E-books and audiobooks have further revolutionized consumption by providing additional formats and instant downloads. The ease with which one can now acquire literature highlights the shift from a limited and laborious process to one that is more manageable and diverse (Fletcher, 2022).

Paying Taxes

The tax payment process in the past necessitated extensive manual calculations and paperwork, resulting in errors and delays. Many individuals had to hire accountants, significantly increasing the cost of tax preparation. Today, automated tax software simplifies this process, allowing users to input their information easily, while algorithms handle calculations accurately. Additionally, online payment systems facilitate swift transactions, ensuring compliance and reducing the administrative burden on taxpayers. This transition illustrates how automation has alleviated difficulties associated with tax compliance (Walker, 2023).

In conclusion, the contrast between current automated information systems and past manual processes highlights the immense benefits of technology. From communication to financial transactions, advancements have transformed inefficiency into streamlined, user-friendly experiences, enhancing accessibility and satisfaction across various sectors. Recognizing these changes can foster an appreciation for the technological conveniences many take for granted today.

References

• Smith, J. (2020). The Evolution of Communication: From Letters to Phones. Journal of Communication Studies.
• Johnson, T., & Lee, K. (2021). The Car Buying Revolution: Online vs. Traditional Methods. Automotive Journal.
• Williams, A. (2019). Payroll Automation in the 21st Century. Finance and Business Review.
• Davis, L. (2022). Banking on Technology: The Future of Savings Accounts. Journal of Financial Services.
• Kim, Y., & O’Connor, R. (2020). Algorithmic Trading: The Future of Stock Markets. Journal of Investment Strategies.
• Garcia, M. (2020). Mortgage Applications: Old Versus New Methods. Real Estate Insights.
• Miller, S. (2021). Transforming Library Services through Automation. Library Journal.
• Fletcher, H. (2022). Book Buying in the Digital Age: Opportunities and Challenges. Publishing Research Bulletin.
• Walker, S. (2023). Navigating Modern Tax Payments: A Guide. Taxation Today Journal.
• Anderson, R. (2023). The Impact of Automation on Daily Tasks. Technology and Society Review.