2.1 Online analytical processing (OLAP) software enables users to interactively and rapidly analyse data sets from various viewpoints. 2.2 If information is or unavailable, the decisions made may have a negative impact on strategic planning, business operations and financial results. 2.3 The main aim of management information software (MIS) is to provide information in a useable format to the relevant person at the right time. 2.4 Data mining software is used to analyse data sets to uncover previously unknown patterns and relationships between data