1. System Fundamentals

Question 1

1. Define the term ‘computer system’ and explain its main functions. (3 marks)

Answer 1

• Definition: An interconnected set of hardware and software components (1).
  
  • Functions: Processes data, stores data, and outputs information (1).
  • Key role: Facilitates task automation and supports decision-making (1).

Question 2

2. List the main hardware components of a computer system and briefly describe the role of each. (5 marks)

Answer 2

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): Executes instructions (1).
  
  • Memory (RAM): Temporarily holds active data and instructions (1).
  • Storage: Permanently holds data, e.g., hard drive or SSD (1).
  • Input Devices: Allow user interaction, e.g., keyboard, mouse (1).
  • Output Devices: Display information, e.g., monitor, printer (1).

Question 3

3. Explain the difference between hardware and software, and give two examples of each. (4 marks)

Answer 3

• Hardware: Physical components, e.g., CPU, hard drive (1).
  
  • Software: Programs/instructions for hardware, e.g., OS, apps (1).
  • Example of hardware: e.g., RAM, monitor (1).
  • Example of software: e.g., spreadsheet, web browser (1).

Question 4

4. Describe the roles of application software and system software, and provide an example of each type. (4 marks)

Answer 4

• System Software: Manages hardware, e.g., OS like Windows (1).
  
  • Application Software: User-specific tasks, e.g., word processor (1).
  • Example of System Software: e.g., macOS, Linux (1).
  • Example of Application Software: e.g., MS Word, Photoshop (1).

Question 5

6. Define ‘feasibility study’ and ‘requirements specification’ in system development. (4 marks)

Answer 5

• Feasibility Study: Assesses viability of the proposed system, including cost, resources, and time (2).
  
  • Requirements Specification: Detailed document of system features and functions to guide development (2).
    (TELOS)

Question 6

5. Explain the importance of understanding user requirements in the SDLC. (4 marks)

Answer 6

• Ensures system meets user needs (1).
  
  • Reduces costly changes later (1).
  • Improves user satisfaction (1).
  • Enhances system usability and effectiveness (1).

Question 7

7. Outline the main stages of the SDLC and briefly describe the purpose of each stage. (6 marks)

Answer 7

• Planning: Defines project scope and objectives (1).
  
  • Analysis: Gathers user requirements and identifies needs (1).
  • Design: Outlines system architecture and layout (1).
  • Development: Builds the system based on design specs (1).
  • Testing: Verifies the system meets requirements and is error-free (1).
  • Maintenance: Provides ongoing support and updates (1).

Question 8

8. Explain two advantages and two disadvantages of prototyping in system development. (4 marks)

Answer 8

• Advantages: Improves requirement clarity (1); Increases user involvement (1).
  
  • Disadvantages: May lead to scope creep (1); Can increase development time if overused (1).

Question 9

9. Discuss the role of stakeholders in the system development process, providing examples. (4 marks)

Answer 9

• Role: Provide input on system requirements and feedback (1).
  
  • Key Stakeholders: Users, developers, project managers, financial managers (2).
  • Example: Users give feedback on usability needs (1).

Question 10

10. Describe the differences between parallel, phased, and direct system implementations. (6 marks)

Answer 10

• Parallel: Old and new systems run together temporarily (2).
• Phased: System implemented in stages (2).
• Direct (Big Bang): Immediate switch to new system; old system retired (2).
• Pilot: System implemented in department/ small part of business

Question 11

11. Explain ‘data migration’ and describe two challenges associated with it. (4 marks)

Answer 11

• Definition: Process of transferring data from old to new system (1).
  
  • Challenge 1: Data compatibility issues (1).
  • Challenge 2: Data integrity loss during transfer (1).
  • Challenge 3: Possible data corruption or loss (1).

Question 12

12. Discuss the importance of testing in system implementation and explain two types of testing. (5 marks)

Answer 12

• Importance: Ensures system reliability and user satisfaction (1).
  
  • Functional Testing: Verifies system functions correctly (2).
  • User Acceptance Testing (UAT): Confirms system meets user needs (2).

Question 13

13. Explain what a ‘pilot run’ is in system implementation and discuss its advantages. (3 marks)

Answer 13

• Definition: Limited system rollout to a small group for testing (1).
  
  • Advantages: Identifies issues before full launch, minimises risk (2).

Question 14

14. Define corrective, adaptive, and perfective maintenance, and explain why each is necessary. (6 marks)

Answer 14

• Corrective: Fixes bugs and issues (2).
  
  • Adaptive: Updates system to meet new needs (2).
  • Perfective: Enhances performance/features for user benefit (2).

Question 15

15. Discuss the importance of regular system evaluation and describe two performance evaluation criteria. (4 marks)

Answer 15

• Importance: Ensures system efficiency and meets changing needs (1).
  
  • Criteria 1: System uptime/reliability (1).
  • Criteria 2: User satisfaction/feedback (1).
  • Criteria 3: Cost-effectiveness or ROI (1).

Question 16

16. Explain why system documentation is important for maintenance and provide two examples. (4 marks)

Answer 16

• Importance: Ensures system can be updated and maintained by others (1).
  
  • Example 1: User manuals (1).
  • Example 2: Technical specifications (1).
  • Example 3: Maintenance logs (1).

Question 17

17. Describe ‘legacy systems’ and discuss one challenge in maintaining or upgrading them. (4 marks)

Answer 17

• Definition: Outdated systems that may still serve critical functions (2).
  
  • Challenge: Compatibility with modern hardware/software (2).

Question 18

18. Define ‘usability’ in HCI and provide two examples of usability features in software. (4 marks)

Answer 18

• Definition: How easy and efficient a system is to use (2).
  
  • Example 1: Clear navigation/menu structure (1).
  • Example 2: Customizable interface (1).

Question 19

19. Explain the purpose of accessibility features in computer systems and give two examples. (4 marks)

Answer 19

• Purpose: Makes systems usable for people with disabilities (2).
  
  • Example 1: Screen readers for visually impaired users (1).
  • Example 2: High-contrast mode for colorblind users (1).

Question 20

20. Describe the importance of user-centred design and discuss two techniques for collecting user feedback. (5 marks)

Answer 20

• Importance: Ensures system meets actual user needs (1).
  
  • Technique 1: Surveys/questionnaires (2).
  • Technique 2: Usability testing sessions (2).

Question 21

21. Discuss two ethical issues related to data privacy and security in computer systems. (4 marks)

Answer 21

• Issue 1: Unauthorised access or data breaches (2).
  
  • Issue 2: Misuse of personal data, e.g., selling user data without consent (2).

Question 22

22. Explain the digital divide and discuss one way to reduce its impact on society. (4 marks)

Answer 22

• Definition: Gap in access to digital technology (2).
  
  • Solution: Increase access to affordable internet and devices (2).

Question 23

23. Describe how environmental considerations might influence computer system design. (3 marks)

Answer 23

• Considerations: Energy efficiency, recyclable materials, reduced e-waste (3).

Question 24

24. Explain the importance of data security and describe two methods for securing data. (5 marks)

Answer 24

• Importance: Protects against unauthorised access and data loss (1).
  
  • Method 1: Encryption to secure data (2).
  • Method 2: Strong authentication methods (2).