WHY NETWORK? FILE AND PRINT SHARING
File sharing: File and print sharing is the largest advantage of having a network. Instead of "walking" files back-and-forth between your computers, employees can share files without leaving their desks. This will increase communication and make everyone in your office more productive.
There is no limit to information you can make available. Customer database information, accounting and financial data, calendars, sales information, inventory, product specifications, legal documents, standard forms, training issues, etc. can all become readily available.
File sharing also allows you to stay in better touch with your customers. By creating a central database of client information, everyone in your office stays up to date with the most current customer information.
Converting all of your documents including memo’s, meeting minutes, newsletters, and customer directories to electronic format cuts down on the paper usage and the need for large filing cabinets and storage space.
Printer and peripheral sharing: Networks allow you to share expensive peripherals such as printers, plotters and scanners. Instead of purchasing a printer for each computer in your office, one printer can be shared among several users. Other devices can be shared as well including CD-ROM’s and fax modems.