Navigating the Startup Waters: Managing a New Small Company from an MIS Perspective

Managing a new small company can be as daunting as it is thrilling. As an MIS (Management Information Systems) major, I've had the unique opportunity to support a friend who started a beer distributor business. My strengths lie in technology and business tools, which allowed me to contribute significantly to the company's foundational aspects, but there were definitely areas where my expertise needed expansion.

Building the Foundation with Database Management

In the early stages of the business, I recognized the importance of a solid database system. Given the relatively small client base at the time, we started with a simple Access database to manage the company's operations. To ensure his business functions smoothly, I provided hands-on training on how to operate the database, making it user-friendly for him to manage on a day-to-day basis. Additionally, I created an Excel file that automatically updates each day to facilitate quick visualizations through pivot tables, charts, and infographics. These tools provided him with a clear picture of his business performance, making decision-making processes more efficient.

Enhancing Online Presence with Social Media Analytics

Once the operational database was up and running, my focus shifted to helping the business enhance its online presence. While my marketing skills are not considered top-notch, I offered what advice I had to increase visibility and engagement. Over time, several marketing campaigns were launched, and I used a range of tools to analyze the results. Specifically, I utilized NodeXL, Google Analytics, and MeaningCloud to gather insights into how the campaigns were performing across social media platforms and the website. These analytics helped us refine our strategies and optimize marketing efforts for better outcomes.

Data Mining and Advanced Analytics

Although my primary focus was on day-to-day operations and marketing, I occasionally delved into more advanced areas of data analysis. Using tools like RapidMiner, I ran the business's data through various statistical models, including regression analysis, decision trees, and market basket analysis. These models helped us better understand customer behaviors and make data-driven decisions, which in turn led to smarter business strategies.

Streamlining Business Processes

A crucial aspect of managing a new business is continuously optimizing processes to increase efficiency and streamline operations. I often took a 'look-over' approach to evaluate his company's business processes and identify areas for improvement. An example of such an issue was the uniform business hours. The company used to open and close at the same time every weekday, even though it was clear that the majority of customers only visited at certain times. By adjusting opening and closing times, the company could better cater to customer needs, enhance customer satisfaction, and improve overall operational efficiency.

By combining my MIS knowledge with a hands-on approach to business operations, I was able to contribute meaningfully to the success of the beer distributor business. While the journey was challenging, the experience was invaluable in gaining practical insights into small business management, particularly in leveraging technology and data-driven decision-making to navigate the startup landscape.

Hope you find this experience as insightful as I have. Good luck on your startup journey!