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Strategic Information Systems

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STRATEGIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS

1. What are the inputs, processing, and outputs of UPS’s package tracking system?
The company’s inputs are: package information, customer signature, pickup, delivery and timecard data, data location and billing and customer clearance documentation.
Processing: They simply transmit data into the central network. The driver places the DIAD into the UPS truck’s vehicle adapter then the package tracking information is then transmitted to UPS’s network for storage and processing in the main computers. From there, the information can be accessed worldwide to provide proof of delivery to customer.
The scanning of the barcode at various points along the route and the data is fed into the central computer to keep track of the progress of shipment.
Output: the delivery information that can be assessed worldwide to provide proof of delivery to customers. Customers can also access this information through the UPS website or a special package tracking software supplied by UPS
2. What technologies are used by UPS? Technologies include handheld computers (DIADs), barcode scanning systems, wired and wireless communications networks, desktop computers, UPS’s central computer (large mainframe computers), and storage technology for the package delivery data. UPS also uses telecommunication technologies for transmitting data through pagers and cellular phone networks. The company uses in-house software for tracking packages, calculating fees, maintaining customer accounts and managing logistics, as well as software to access the World Wide Web.

How are these technologies related to UPS’s business strategy?
UPS’s business strategy since its inception is to provide “best service and lowest rates”. In terms of the delivery service, “best service” would entail the successful delivery of the package to the

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