4b Limitations of ICT ***

Question 0

The management of the airline needs to update the check-in system to deal with passengers more efficiently. They have employed a consultancy firm to investigate the current system and design the updates.
Explain why the check-in system is networked. (4)

Answer 0

Explain why the check-in system is networked.

Any four from:
 reduces the need for data duplication (1) so the
integrity of the data increases (1)
 different users can have access to the same
information (1) data can be exchanged (1)
 changes in seating allocation/special requirements
can be communicated immediately (1) aids communication flow from check-in to embarkation (1)
 peripherals can be shared (1) output can be directed to a specific location/individual (1)
 shared processing activity (1) ensures efficiency within the system (1)

Question 1

Explain three limitations, for a candidate, of using a computer to answer examination questions.

Answer 1

One mark for point, one for expansion eg:
 it may take longer to input answers (1) leaving less time to
answer all the questions (1)
 diagrams may not be as intricate (1) you need knowledge of
how to create diagrams on screen (1)
 need to be able to type accurately (1) to ensure answers can
be marked (1)
 technical equipment may fail/not work correctly (1) meaning
candidate (1)
 issues related to health and safety eg length of time sat at a monitor (1) over a period from of an examination e.g RSI (1)

Question 2

The computer based training system accepts speech as a method of input.

Explain two problems the managers could have when using speech as a method of input.

Answer 2

One mark for point, one for expansion eg:
 accents/may not understand (1) the training system may not
discern between different pronunciations of words (1)
 interference (1) background noise could affect the accuracy
of input to the system (1)
 audibility (1) the manager would have to ensure they spoke
loud enough for their instructions to be recognised (1)
 speed of input (1) the need for faster input using speech may
be at the expense of accuracy (1)

Question 3

Advances in technology have enabled more employees to work from home.
Explain three limitations on employees being able to work from home.

Answer 3

Three from, e.g.

 self-discipline needed to avoid being distracted at home (1) other jobs/activities take priority (1)
 job credibility/others may not appreciate that working from home is a real job (1) demands upon time increase due to presence at home (1)
 feeling of isolation (1) may miss the camaraderie of the office (1)
 household bills may go up (1) heat, light, power etc needed for longer time (1)
 less commitment/motivation (1) lack of interaction/face-to-face dialogue with
colleagues can result in a lack of direction and de-motivation (1)
 need appropriate technology, e.g. broadband/hardware/software (1) which
attracts costs (1)
 quality/availability of technical support (1) may not be able to get support when
needed for hardware at home/for software at home (1).