Office automation is the use of computer systems to perform a variety of office operations, such as word processing, accounting, and e-mail. Office automation almost always implies a network of computers with a selection of available programs.
A typical 'suite' of office automation software could include some of the following kinds of programs:
• word processor
• spreadsheet
• database
• desktop publisher
• project manager
• presentation
• computer file manager
• email
• internet browser
• internet publisher
• personal organizer
• financial system
• personnel system
Many books, magazines and web sites can help a person choose office automation software suitable for the purposes. In many cases, office automation software will be provided with the appropriate hardware, either as part of the purchase agreement or as part of a government standard.
More common office automation applications are:
• Word Processing
• Spreadsheets
• Databases
It’s best that all users of office automation software be trained how to use the program. In most countries outside training will be available. Some existing personnel may be able to provide in-house training by skilled staff already on hand. Most software packages also come with user manuals and many come with self-paced on-screen tutorials.
Modern office automation software is very powerful. Skilled users can develop very sophisticated products. For example, a knowledgeable user could use office automation for:
• producing all or most of its publications in-house, including books, brochures, forms and newsletters
• composing, editing and printing all correspondence in a standard corporate style, incorporating automatic print ...