Effect Of Computerization In The Growth Of Manufacturing Companies

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study
A great advancement has been made in the field of computer technology within our environment. Computer which used to be a story telling affair in the country has reached the door step of every home and office even in Enugu Metropolis.
Historically, the multi-user system (mainframe computer) was the only type in the market. Now withstanding the expensive nature, people demanded for it. Computer has been reduced from mainframe which is also known as super computer to mini computer and down to micro computer. Micro computers are small size systems such as desktops and laptops where information communications are replaced by chips.
Ordinarily, computer is a machine that receives data, processes data and gives information depending on the programme stored. Ukeje (2000) defined computer as any device capable of accepting data automatically, applying a sequence of processes to data and supplying the result of these processes. It usually consists of input and output units, storage unit, arithmetic and logical unit and a control unit.
The input devices in computer include keyboard, mouse, scanner, camera etc.
The output devices are visual display unit (VDU) or monitor, printer, speaker etc. The daily life of people in Nigeria today is closely linked with computer technology. Ranging from information storage to retrieval, most sectors of the economy have found computer a good companion. Many organizations such as banks, manufacturing companies etc have really simplified their activities through the assistance of computer. The process of manufacturing and production in industries and even banking in recent times are done with much ease. In order words, the effective processing of data to generate information as vital in the operation of businesses and manufacturing processes. The manner in which this transpired such as 1,2,3 has changed. In recent years, computer has taken over all operations/processes in business including manufacturing industries and companies.
However, from the economic view point, computers are generally used to provide public services. A great number of departments or sectors use computers for conventional business applications such as payroll, personal records, economic planning, production and manufacturing process etc.
This study therefore, focuses on the effect of computerization on the economic development with regards to manufacturing industries.

Statement of the Problem
In the economy of Nigeria as a country, tremendous development have been noticed even before the introduction of computer in most sectors. This trend of development is seen by many as a step forward while others see it as something not commensurate with the standard of Nigeria continental placement. Ministries, parastatals and business organizations still remain incompatible. These organizations still lack necessary facilities which will enhance computerization in their sectors. The workers in these organizations are not competent enough in using computer for their official duties. This however necessitated the need to evaluate the effect of computerization in manufacturing companies.

Purpose of the Study
The main purpose of this study is the effect of computerization in the growth of manufacturing companies. Specifically the study will determine the following:
i. The importance of computerization in manufacturing companies.
ii. The availability of computer facilities for enhancement of computerization in manufacturing companies.
iii. The level of computer knowledge possessed by workers in manufacturing companies.
iv. How workers discharge their routine duties with computer.
Scope of the Study
The study is limited to the following areas: importance of computerization, availability of computer facilities, level of computer knowledge/competency possessed by workers and using computer to discharge their duties.

Significance of Study
The study is vital because of the following benefits to be derived from it by manufacturing companies and the society at large.
This study will expose the need for computerization of activities to manufacturing companies. It will also encourage great number of people to study computer as a course in the higher institutions due to job opportunities that would hopefully exist in these manufacturing industries. The study is highly set to encourage and imbibe computerization culture in the employers and employees of manufacturing companies.
The study to a great extent will create market for dealers in computer sales, assembling, maintenance and services.

Research Questions
This study was guided by the following research questions:
1. What are the importance of computerization in manufacturing companies?
2. To what extent are computer facilities available for the computerization in the manufacturing companies?
3. To what extent do workers in the manufacturing companies possess computer knowledge/competency?
4. How do workers discharge their duties with computer?

Definition of Terms
It is essential that the key terms used over and over in this study are properly defined in the context in which they have been used in the body of this work. The following key terms are defined thus:
COMPUTER; A computer is an electronic device for storing and processing information.
COMPUTERIZATION: This is to convert to a system controlled by or stored on computer.
MANUFACTURE: To make a large scale with machinery and it’s a process or manufacturing.
GROWTH: The process of growing
COMPANY: This is a commercial business.