The Advantage of Automation

The power of computers is that they perform repetitive tasks quickly, efficiently and without complaints. This extends to transferring data. Using a public-domain protocol package means you must initiate the transfer every time. This works if your transfer needs are different every time, but fails to tap into your computer's power for consistent transfer needs. Whether you have one field sales office or 100, you should automate your communications whenever possible. More than likely, the cost savings of automation will outweigh the cost of the commercial software needed.

Many commercial communication packages support automation through a scripting language. A scripting language is a means of programming your software to perform the repetitive tasks which meet your needs. However, all scripting languages are not created equal. Some languages consist of a few commands to automate a basic file transfer. Others contain hundreds of commands and functions allowing you to develop applications capable of handling all your communication needs. Some packages require the user to understand programming in order to write the simplest of scripts. Others provide interfaces to assist users in developing scripts. Some will even write scripts based on your use of the software. Quality software packages include pre-built scripts for common communication tasks which can be used as templates for your own needs.

One of the most common automation features of communications software is known as "server polling." Polling involves a single computer system calling (or polling) a number of remote computers for the purpose of downloading or uploading data. The restaurant chain described previously uses polling to gather its sales and inventory data.

When selecting a communications package based on the power of its scripting language, understand your needs and know your capabilities. If you have multiple platforms, look for compatibility between the scripts from one platform to another. This greatly reduces your development time.