Office automation refers to the varied computer machinery and software used to digitally create, collect, store, manipulate, and relay office information needed for accomplishing basic tasks.

Raw data storage, electronic transfer, and the management of electronic business information comprise the basic activities of an office automation system

Advantages are:

-Office automation can get many tasks accomplished faster.

-It eliminates the need for a large staff.

-Less storage is required to store data.

-Multiple people can update data simultaneously in the event of changes in schedule

Office automation systems (OAS) are configurations of networked computer hardware and software.

A variety of office automation systems are now applied to business and communication functions that used to be performed manually or in multiple locations of a company, such as preparing written communications and strategic planning.

Types of functions integrated by office automation systems include

(1) Electronic publishing

(2) Electronic communication

(3) Electronic collaboration

(4) Image processing

(5) Office management

At the heart of these systems is often a local area network (LAN) .

The LAN allows users to transmit data, voice, mail, and images across the network to any destination, whether that destination is in the local office on the LAN, or in another country or continent, through a connecting network.

An OAS makes office work more efficient and increases productivity.