1.1 Introduction
A database management software is a computer-based system designed to create, store, manage, and retrieve large volumes of structured data in an organized and efficient manner. It provides users with the ability to handle data accurately, securely, and consistently while supporting routine business operations and managerial decision-making (Elmasri & Navathe, 2016). The confectionery business, which involves the production and sale of items such as sweets, chocolates, pastries, and other related products, operates in a highly competitive and fast-paced market. Effective management of this data is essential for maintaining product quality, controlling costs, meeting customer demand, and sustaining profitability. However, many confectionery businesses, particularly small and medium-scale enterprises, still rely on manual or poorly coordinated data management methods, which limits operational efficiency and growth (Laudon & Laudon, 2020).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Limitation of the study and Definition of technical terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Historically, database management software is closely linked to the broader evolution of information systems used in business organizations. In the early stages of commercial activities, including confectionery businesses, records of sales, inventory, suppliers, and customers were maintained manually using ledgers, notebooks, and filing cabinets. This traditional approach was time-consuming and prone to errors, especially as businesses expanded and transaction volumes increased. According to Laudon and Laudon (2020), manual record-keeping systems dominated small-scale businesses for decades but became increasingly inefficient as the need for timely and accurate information grew.
The increasing reliance on information technology across business sectors has significantly transformed how organizations manage data and conduct daily operations. According to Laudon and Laudon (2020), modern businesses depend heavily on well-structured information systems to support efficient transaction processing, accurate record keeping, and informed decision-making. In the context of confectionery businesses, which deal with diverse product lines, frequent sales transactions, inventory turnover, and customer interactions, effective data management has become a critical requirement for sustainability and growth.
Several studies have reported that small and medium-scale enterprises, including confectionery businesses, often struggle with inefficient data management practices due to reliance on manual or poorly integrated systems. Connolly and Begg (2019) reported that manual record-keeping systems are prone to errors, data redundancy, and delays in information retrieval, which negatively affect operational efficiency. These challenges are more pronounced in confectionery businesses where timely monitoring of stock levels, expiry dates, pricing, and sales performance is essential to reduce waste and maximize profitability.
Elmasri and Navathe (2016) asserted that database management systems provide a structured approach to storing, managing, and retrieving large volumes of data while ensuring data integrity, consistency, and security. They emphasized that a well-designed database system supports business processes by integrating different functional areas such as sales, inventory, and customer management into a single coherent platform. For confectionery businesses, this integration is vital for tracking daily transactions and generating accurate reports that aid managerial planning and control.
Furthermore, O'Brien and Marakas (2018) stated that customized database-driven applications offer greater flexibility and relevance than generic software solutions, especially for businesses with specific operational needs. Many off-the-shelf software packages fail to address the unique requirements of confectionery operations, such as handling multiple product variants, batch tracking, seasonal demand fluctuations, and perishability. In addition, Turban et al. (2021) affirmed that the implementation of tailored database management software enhances organizational efficiency by automating routine tasks, improving data accuracy, and supporting real-time access to information. They contend that such systems enable managers to make timely and informed decisions, and improve customer service delivery. For confectionery businesses operating in competitive markets, the adoption of an effective database management software is therefore not only a technological upgrade but a strategic necessity.
The challenges encountered that led to the execution of the research work is that the existing digital solutions used by some small and medium-scale confectionery businesses are often generic and not tailored to the specific needs of confectionery operations. Such systems lack flexibility, are costly to maintain, or do not adequately address issues of data security, scalability, and ease of use. This study is set against the backdrop of the growing need for efficient, secure, and customized database management solutions to support the operations of confectionery businesses.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Based on the investigation conducted, the implemented system encounters a number of challenges, with some of the most significant issues outlined below:
- The manual data management systems increase the risk of human error during data entry, updating, and retrieval processes.
- The old system is time-consuming and labor-intensive, requiring staff to spend significant hours updating records, generating reports, and reconciling transactions.
- The existing digital solutions used by some small and medium-scale confectionery businesses are often generic and not tailored to the specific needs of confectionery operations.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of this study is to design and implement a database management software that improves the operational efficiency of a confectionery business. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To design a structured database model that effectively captures and organizes data related to products, customers, sales, and inventory in a confectionery business.
- To develop a user-friendly database management software that supports efficient data entry, retrieval, updating, and reporting for day-to-day confectionery operations.
- To create a secure and reliable data storage system that minimizes data redundancy and enhances data accuracy and consistency.
- To implement the developed database management software in a confectionery business environment to automate record-keeping and transaction processing.
- To evaluate the effectiveness of the implemented database management software in improving operational efficiency, decision-making, and overall business performance.
1.5 Significance of Study
The deployment of the proposed system will hold significant relevance in the following ways:
- The outcome of this research will improve data management processes, enhance decision-making, and streamline operations in a confectionery business.
- It will be beneficial to confectionery business owners and managers, as it will support better decision-making through timely access to organized and reliable information.
- The software developed will reduce manual errors, save time, and provide accurate information for planning and operational control.
- The system will be able to monitor stock levels, track sales trends, manage product expiry dates, and plan production and procurement activities more effectively.
- Lastly, for system developers and information technology professionals, the research will contribute to academic knowledge in the field of database systems and serve as a reference for similar business-oriented software projects.
1.6 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on designing, developing, and implementing a database system for a confectionery business in Lagos State. It focuses primarily on sales, inventory, customer, and supplier data management.
1.7 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Establishment Policies: Establishment policies posed a serious limitation as most staffs are not ready to release information needed for this research work. There were lots of information needed from the staffs of this institution to enhance the study which took them time to release or they did not release at all for security purposes, hence the scope was reduced.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet).
1.8 Definition of Terms
Database Management System (DBMS): A software system used to store, manage, and retrieve data efficiently (Elmasri & Navathe, 2016).
Inventory Management: The process of ordering, storing, and using a company's stock of products (Laudon & Laudon, 2020).
Confectionery Business: A business engaged in the production and sale of sweets, chocolates, and baked goods (Kotler & Keller, 2016).
Software Implementation: The process of deploying and integrating a software application into a business environment (Connolly & Begg, 2019).
Operational Efficiency: The ability of a business to deliver products and services in the most cost-effective and timely manner while maintaining quality (Laudon & Laudon, 2020).
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