Question 3 (7 marks)

Smith and Sons Limited has a flat-file processing system. The information-processing facility of the company is extensive. Different applications, such as order processing, production planning, inventory management, accounting systems, payroll, and marketing systems, use separate tape and disk files. You were running an accounting consultancy and considered the best consultant on the accounting information system. Therefore, Smith and Sons Limited has recently hired your consulting firm to investigate the possibility of switching to a database management system.

Required: Based on the above information, prepare a memo to the top management team at Smith and Sons Limited explaining the advantages of a database management system (DBMS). Also, discuss the necessity of a database administrator and the job functions this person would perform. [Word Limit: Up to 400 words]