Enterprise Systems and Business Environment Dynamics
Enterprise System Features
An enterprise system is defined by the following characteristics:
- Global Integration: All elements are interconnected.
- Self-Regulation: The system maintains internal balance.
- Open System: It maintains constant contact with its environment.
System Subdivisions
- Operational Subsystem
- Financial Subsystem
- Administrative Subsystem
Characteristics of the Business Environment
- Complex: Requires comprehensive information to ensure successful business operations.
- Dynamic: Rapid changes limit the responsiveness of businesses.
- Hostile: The level of hostility depends on competition and resource availability.
Specific Environment
Factors that affect each company individually:
- Customers: The number and characteristics of clients condition performance.
- Suppliers: The size and degree of compliance determine company outcomes.
- Competitors: The behavior of competitors conditions the firm.
- Intermediaries: Businesses rely on wholesalers, retailers, and agents to reach final customers.
- Financial Institutions: Necessary for companies to perform activities and secure funding.
General Environment
Factors that apply equally to all companies:
- Economic Environment: Interest rates, unemployment, etc.
- Demographic Environment: Population size, gender, and age classification.
- Politico-Legal Environment: Government policies and economic laws.
Company Objectives
Quantitative Targets
- Profit Maximization
- Cost Minimization
- Growth: Gaining a competitive advantage.
- Market Acquisition: Achieving market leadership for greater freedom of action.
- Customer Base Expansion: Offering competitive pricing to increase volume.
Qualitative Targets
- Customer Satisfaction
- Brand Image and Quality
- Worker Satisfaction
- Market Consolidation: Maintaining a stable situation to move forward.
- Survival
- Social Objectives: Environmentally friendly practices.