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An integrated paradigm of using multiple software programs in logistics education is proposed as an effective problem‐solving tool in addition to computer programming and spreadsheet modelling. Presents the essentials of logistics systems management and how each software program can be used individually and jointly to address logistics issues in detail. In the integrated paradigm, a Lotus 123 spreadsheet program is used as an integrator which works together with other software to facilitate student learning and to aid better decision making process. In‐class surveys show that the proposed approach is both effective and efficient in terms of getting the right results in less time. The approach is also realistic because the mixed mainframe and microcomputer operating environment and multiple software programs are being used by the business community.

The spreadsheet was the first applications program written specifically for the microcomputer to be widely adopted in the business world. This article explains what spreadsheets do, and how they are useful in facilities management.

Except for word processing, the electronic spreadsheet is probably the most useful general purpose software for the microcomputer user. Almost all spreadsheets are now packaged in combination with other applications, such as database systems and graphic capabilities. To become proficient in the development of spreadsheet applications, one must be prepared to invest a certain amount of time and effort, but the user will be rewarded by the results. In addition to a general discussion of spreadsheets, the authors critically review Microsoft Excel, version 2.0 (for the IBM PS/2, PC‐AT, or compatibles), noting enhancements over earlier spreadsheets. A sidebar presents spreadsheet templets that can be used to manage a library retrospective conversion project.

“Documentation”—that which is incorporated into the spreadsheet file, in contrast to manuals that come with the software per se—seems to be acknowledged more in theory than in practice. Documentation appears in the first section of the spreadsheet, for it introduces the reader to the model and enables the reader to “get his/her bearings.” Necessary elements include a title line, a purpose statement, directions on how the model is to be used, references to sources and ideas, and a table of contents.

We invited two Ernst & Young consultants familiar with decision‐support software to test Alacrity's “expert system” for strategy development. Their review provides a detailed assessment of Alacrity's strengths and weaknesses to help you clarify your purchasing decision process.

As more and more library management software appears on the market, selecting the best computer programs to automate library functions has become increasingly difficult. Each type of program has its own advantages and disadvantages; some have a broad range of applications, but may be too complex or difficult for routine use. Others are designed to perform specific tasks, but cannot be readily modified to meet the needs of an individual department. Warranties, training requirements, and backup policies differ considerably, depending on which program you choose and which company manufactures it. Since library automation can be an expensive prospect, it is well worth the time and energy to develop a thorough acquaintance with what's available—and to know what questions to ask. Your final software decision will determine the productivity, efficiency, and cost‐effectiveness of your library automation project.

The purpose of this paper is to better understand management accounting automation by exploring the programmability of management accounting work.

We build upon the literature on digitalization in management accounting and draw upon the pragmatic constructivist methodology to understand how digitalization takes place at the individual actors' level in accounting practice. The paper uses a data set from an interventionist case study of a machinery manufacturer.

We examine an actual process of automating management accounting tasks. During this development process, surprisingly, calculation tasks remained more fit for humans than machines though, initially, they were thought to be programmable.

According to our findings, practitioners may interpret experts' nonprogrammable work tasks as programmable and seek to automate them. Only identifying the factual possibilities for automating accounting-related work can lead to automation-improved efficiency. Our findings can be increasingly relevant for advanced analytics initiatives and applications within management accounting (e.g. robotic process automation, big data, machine learning and artificial intelligence).

Practitioners need to carefully analyze the entity they wish to automate and understand the factual possibilities of using and maintaining the planned automatic system throughout its life cycle.

The paper shows that when processes are assessed from a distance, the nonprogrammable management accounting tasks and expertise can become misinterpreted as programmable, and the goal of automating them has little chance of success. It also shows possibilities for human accountants to remain relevant in comparison to machines and paves the way for further studies on advanced decision technologies in management accounting.

This article discusses the application of MRP on a microcomputer using the very popular electronic spreadsheet software. The illustration may be more of a managerial exercise than a true real world application, but illustrates the potential of this type of analysis. In fact, in smaller business organisations, on‐going practical planning using MRP could very well be accomplished using these techniques.

Many of us have used speadsheets like Lotus 1–2–3 to do statistical analyses, often using data collected from various sources. For example, to manage book approval plans, subject specialists at our library tabulate the approved, rejected, and firm orders, as well as keep track of encumbrances against the budget. Our collection development officer then collects the data from the subject specialists for analysis.

It is argued that most Australian training courses for unemployed people starting their own small business emphasise business development. An innovative course in the State of Queensland blends personal and business development together, using experiential techniques. Feedback during the course and several months afterwards suggest the course successfully achieves its objectives.