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Information Technology A-Level > A-Level IT Deck > Flashcards

A-Level IT Deck Flashcards

1
Q

State the 6 factors you need to consider when choosing a network

A 
Cost of a network
Existing systems
Security issues
How will the system be used
Performance required
Organisational size
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2
Q

What is meant by cost of network?

A

Includes the cost of the server, cabling, software and third party communications. Not usually an issue in bigger organisations.

Hardware like printers and terminals, software licensing fees, staff training on how to use the network and wages for network technicians are all key expenses to be considered when choosing a network.

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3
Q

What is meant by size of the organization?

A

Determines the complexity of the network as larger organisations may have users in sites around the world; therefore costs of communications could be high, this will also determine whether they need a LAN or a WAN.

Large networks need to have reliable communications.

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4
Q

What is meant by how the system will be used?

A

Affect the scale of the network as large organisations will need LANs set up in each store with one being connected to a WAN, which allows all stores to communicate with the head office.

Online booking systems will require interactive processing. A larger scale network will be needed for this.

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5
Q

What is meant by existing systems?

A

Networks usually have to work with existing systems, therefore consideration has to be taken as to whether the new network will be compatible with the current software/hardware.

New networks will need to be built on top of hardware that staff are all ready familiar with.

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6
Q

What is meant by performance required?

A

Determine the way the computers and hardware will be connected together. It will also determine the type of server needed, i.e. some departments will need real-time processing.

Multimedia studios with large video files will require higher performance than smaller home networks.

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7
Q

What is meant by security issues?

A

Determine whether internet access is needed and how the company can protect the network for hackers and viruses.

A school will require web filtering of certain material. A company using confidential information will require greater security from hackers by using more complex firewalls.

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8
Q

What is meant by a Peer-to-Peer network?

A

All computer terminals have equal priority/same status and can share hardware and/or software. This is suitable for small, home networks or Internet-based file sharing.

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9
Q

What is meant by a Client-Server network?

A

Computer terminals are connected to one more important terminal, called a server. The server contains most of the files and programs that the other terminals will use. This is suitable for large organisations.

A more powerful computer is used as a central computer where all the files and programs are stored.

Computers do not have the same status.

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10
Q

What are the advantages of a Peer-to-Peer network?

A

This is the less expensive option because no central server is needed. There is no single server that can break and stop the network working.

•No network manager is needed. •Easy to set up •No reliance on a server. •Lower operational costs. •Peer responsibility.

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11
Q

What are the advantages of the Client-Server network?

A

All users have access to a single, central store of data. Servers are more powerful than the other terminals, which can improve speed of access to programs.

Backups are taken centrally. Centralised data. Security is better than Peer-to-Peer. Centralised administration.

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12
Q

What are the disadvantages of a Peer-to-Peer network?

A

There is no central store of files, which can be more confusing for users. Security is more difficult because it is not controlled centrally.

•Backups cannot be made centrally. •Users need more IT knowledge. •Some computers may run slowly. •Only suitable for small networks. •Files not held centrally.

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13
Q

What are the disadvantages of a Client-Server network?

A

There is an over-reliance on the server if there are technical issues. Servers are normally more expensive in terms of hardware and maintenance.

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14
Q

State what HCI stands for?

A

Human Computer Interface

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15
Q

List some items that you would find in an interface

A

Menu, Icons, Images, Windows

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16
Q

List the factors that you need to consider when designing an interface.

A

– consistency of signposting and pop-up information
– on-screen help
– House style/ethos
– Layout appropriate to task
– differentiation in user expertise
– clear navigational structure
– location of where the machine is to be used
– customizable to suit the needs of the user
– use by disabled people

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17
Q

State what is meant by the consistency of signposting and pop-up information where HCI designing is concerned

A

Users must always be clear on what to do next when using software.

To help achieve this, HCI designers can ensure consistent use of signposting and pop-up information. E.g. aids to navigation such as the Next and Previous buttons, pop-up menus, icons, etc., all look the same from screen to screen and all appear in the same position on the screen.

Navigation around the program should be clear, consistent and easy to follow – this will make the software more intuitive, so you can learn how to use it faster

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18
Q

State what is meant by On-screen help where HCI designing is concerned

A

An on-screen help facility helps users as they are using the software, instead of them having to look through printed manuals or user guides. Help screens should explain things simply and use easy-to-follow examples .

The software should recognise and anticipate the users’ goals and offer assistance to make the task easier. Microsoft Office uses Wizards that help you through some of the more complex tasks. This allows the users to accomplish their tasks in as short a period as possible.

An on-screen help facility helps users as they are using the software, instead of them having to look through printed manuals or user guides. Help screens should explain things simply and use easy-to-follow examples . The software should recognise and anticipate the users’ goals and offer assistance to make the task easier. Microsoft Office uses Wizards that help you through some of the more complex tasks.

This allows the users to accomplish their tasks in as short a period as possible.

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19
Q

State what is meant by Layout appropriate to task where HCI designing is concerned

A

You would not have the same layout for a piece of software for young children learning how to spell as you would have with a piece of CAD software used to design complex buildings. As these totally different tasks, they need a more appropriate screen layout.

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20
Q

State what is meant by Differentiation in user expertise where HCI designing is concerned

A

A good HCI will cater for different levels of expertise at the same time.

Customisable HCIs make allows the users to change the way their user interface works/looks to suit their work preference.

Provide short cuts for experts - experts often type very quickly and will be able to memorise commands using a combination of keys. This will be quicker than using the mouse to click on icons and menus.

More ways of performing the same operation – a beginner may prefer to use a drop down menu or click on an icon in order to print out a file whereas the experienced user may find it faster to issue a command using a sequence of keys such as Ctrl+P.

A beginner will also need easily accessible help utilities.

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21
Q

State what is meant by Where the PC is going to be used has an impact on the suitability of an HCI, where HCI designing is concerned

A

e.g. The HCI should avoid placing importance on the use of sound, if it is to be used in a noisy area.

• Touch screens may be suitable for use in museums, where an easy-to-use and reliable input method is needed

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22
Q

State what is meant by House Style/Ethos, where HCI designing is concerned

A

A HCI for a piece of software used in a particular company must convey the house style and ethos of that company.

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23
Q

State what is meant by Clear navigational structure, where HCI designing is concerned

A

It speeds things up if there is a familiar route through the programs as users will not have to keep learning new layouts

  • It must be clear to the users how to accomplish certain tasks, so for a complex task the user can be guided through using a series of small steps. E.g. the mail merge wizard in Word
  • Forward and back buttons should always be in the same place on different screens. If a user wants to flick quickly through a series of pages, it is annoying to have to position the mouse before clicking.
24
Q

State what is meant by Use by disabled people , where HCI designing is concerned

A
  • Sensory impaired users may not be able to read the letters on the screen properly, so the HCI should use a font that is easy to read and ensure that its size is large enough to read. The user should be given the option to customise their screen colour, contrast, font size.
  • The blind can use a ‘talking’ computer where the words are spoken as they are input or output.
  • Blind users can also use Braille keyboards to input data and Braille printers to produce output in Braille.
  • Disabled people who are unable to write can use voice-recognition systems to input data.
25
Q

Exlain what you would design if creating an HCI for software teaching a child to read.

A
  • Have a minimum amount of text on screen
  • Use child friendly font/size of font
  • Use bright colours to attract the child’s attention
  • Have an uncluttered appearance
  • Involve minimal use of the keyboard / alternative input devices
  • Use speech synthesis / sound so that they can hear the words (sounds must relate to what’s on-screen
  • Animation/videos to keep their interest
  • Instant feedback on their responses
  • Interactivity e.g. quizzes, educational games
  • Visual prompts e.g. pictures of a cat if that is what they are being asked to read
26
Q

Exlain what you would design if creating an HCI for Computer Aided Design Software. (look up CAD online if unsure what it is!)

A
  • Minimum amount of icons, leaving most of screen clear for diagrams
  • Use a lot of keyboard shortcuts
  • Options/tools can be selected from a graphics tablet rather than clicking on-screen
  • Should allow tasks to be done as quickly as possible
  • Keep mouse clicks to a minimum
  • Allow interface to be customised, to choose a better colour scheme and turn off sounds
27
Q

What is meant by Management of Change?

A

Organisations introduce new ICT systems to benefit themselves, not their employees, and many changes to a business can occur.

These changes could come in how the business operates, the jobs employees carry out, the skills the staff need, or changes to the management structure

28
Q

State the consequences of change for a company

A
  1. Changes in skills required
  2. Changes to organisational structure
  3. Changes in work pattern
  4. Changes to internal procedures
29
Q

Explain what is meant by changes in skill required

A

ICT systems require different skills than manual systems, so staff may need to retrain.

The use of ICT has increased the number of skilled jobs available (network managers, programmers, computer engineers, etc.), but there has been a decrease in jobs such as typists, filing clerks, post clerks, etc.

30
Q

Explain what is meant by Changes to organisational structure

A

When a new system is introduced, some businesses take this as an opportunity to restructure, so it fits better with the new system.

This can lead to dissatisfaction among the employees, as working groups may be split up, or juniors being promoted over seniors, or can lead to some jobs being combined (e.g. A salesperson may now take orders, or deal with account queries, where previously these were two different job roles).

31
Q

Explain what is meant by Changes in work pattern

A

To meet the demand of a global 24/7 market, some businesses now operate around the clock.

This means more opportunities for shift work, part-time work and out-ofnormal hours work.

This may inconvenience as many people as it might suit. Some may have family commitments, or it may not be compatible with a partner’s work hours, etc.

32
Q

Explain what is meant by Changes to internal procedures

A

Since new ICT systems can be much more efficient than manual systems, staff may find themselves having to take on more, or different, responsibilities.

The new ICT system will be designed to be as efficient as possible, and not work around the existing system. As a result, Some employees may find that they perform the same job, but they now have to do it in a different way.

Others still may find that their job frequently changes. This amount of change can be very stressful to staff, particularly if they are not consulted about these changes.

Also, codes of conduct are required that outline what staff can and cannot do using the ICT system.

33
Q

What is meant by a network topology?

A

It is the physical layout of a network.

34
Q

How many network topologies are there? List them

A

RING
BUS
STAR

35
Q

State what is meant by a RING network

A

No sever is involved therefore it is a peer to peer network.
– Computers are arranged in a circle.
– Data sent by one computer passes around the ring until it reaches the correct computer.

36
Q

State the advantages of a RING network

A
  • The network is not dependant on a central computer.

* Each computer has the same access as the others.

37
Q

State the disadvantages of a RING network

A

•If there is a break in the connection the whole network fails.
•Faults are difficult to locate.
•Impossible to keep the network running whilst adding
equipment.

38
Q

State what is meant by a BUS network

A

All devices are connected to the network to a command shared cable called the backbone.
Signals are passed in either direction along the backbone.

39
Q

State the advantages of a BUS network

A

•Cost effective because of the small amount of cable
needed.
•Simple cable runs makes it easy to install.
•Easy to add extra devices.

40
Q

State the disadvantages of a BUS network

A

•If more than 12 devices are connected to the network,
the performance of the network is degraded.
•If there is a break in the backbone, the network
cannot be used.

41
Q

State what is meant by a STAR network

A

Uses a central connection point to connect all the devices on the network together. Central point can be a hub, switch or router.

42
Q

State the advantages of a STAR network

A
  • Fault tolerant.
  • Load tolerant.
  • Easy to add extra devices.
43
Q

State the disadvantages of a STAR network

A

•Higher cost – cabling.
•Dependant on the central hub, switch or router.
If this fails, the network fails.

44
Q

State the different types of Software Components you can use in a network to help manage it

A 
– User accounts and logs
– Security strategies
– Configuration management
– Remote management
– Disaster planning (backup and restoration)
– Auditing (keeping logs).
45
Q

State what is meant by Security Strategies in terms of Software Components

A 
The use of networks exposes organisations to a range of security threats, so strategies regarding the use of networks need to be developed to minimise threats. There are a range of methods available:
– Use of a password and user ID
– Virus checkers
– Firewalls
– Encryption
46
Q

State what is meant by Configuration Management in terms of Software Components

A

Configuration Management
Necessary to configure the network to maximise its performance.

Organises and maintains all the information on a network.

– The network manager will refer to this when the network needs upgrading or expanding.

47
Q

State what the advantages of Configuration Management is in terms of Software Components

A 
Advantages are:
– Much easier to repair, expand or upgrade the network.
– Network will be optimised.
– Less network downtime.
– Security will be optimised.
– Roll back changes.
– Keeps records of all changes.
48
Q

State what is meant by Remote Management in regards to Software Components

A

A network manager can perform many tasks from their terminal:
– See which users are using the network
– Check on e-mails being sent in company time
– Check on the Internet sites visited
– Check on hardware
– Check licenses for software are not being exceeded
– Guide users through problems
– Check users do not have any unauthorised software downloaded
– Log a user off
– Shut down stations.

49
Q

State what is meant by Disaster Planning in regards to Software Components

A

Companies will have to cope with a situation that will cause the loss of hardware, software or data. The loss can be caused by:

– Hardware failure
– Software bugs
– Natural disasters
– Deliberate damage
– Accidental damage

Disaster planning is needed:
– To minimise disruption
– Get systems working quickly
– Ensure all staff know what to do to recover data.

50
Q

State what is meant by Backup and Restoration in terms of Software Components

A 
Backup and restoration
Backups should be taken:
– On a regular basis
– Kept away from the computer in a fireproof safe
– Use grandfather, father, son approach.
– Use with a RAID.
Files need to be restored using the backups. It is 
important staff know how to do this.
51
Q

State what is meant by a Management Information System

A

Management Information System – Systems that convert data from internal or external sources into information to be used by managers.

52
Q

State the purpose of a Management Information System

A

Management information systems:
• produce information beyond that normally needed for routine data processing
• produce information where the timing is critical
• are used to supply information to management in order to help make decisions
• are based around databases.

53
Q

Give an example of where a MIS will be used

A

Most schools use SIMS (Schools Information Management System)

54
Q

Explain the features of a good MIS

A

Must include information that is relevant, accurate and fit for purpose. Too much detail is almost as bad as too little. Validation and verification must take place
to make sure that incorrect data is not processed.

Must give the information when required. Some information systems only produce certain output at a certain time. E.g. reports may be produced at the end
of a monthly run for processing payments. Managers have to make decisions quickly and so should not have to wait for information. As MIS are used by the managers themselves, the information can be extracted whenever they need it.

Be accessible to a wide range of users. Managers in will need information relevant to their area of the business. The MIS must use all the data held by
the corporate database and supply it to the full range of users. Managers must be trained in the MIS to use it effectively.

Present the data in the most appropriate format, or allow managers to choose how the information is presented. For example, in tables or the types
of graphs used. They may choose to save the information in file formats that can be used for spreadsheets or presentations.

Flexibility - A good MIS will therefore allow complete flexibility in the information it can produce and the way it is presented. The system should fit in with the managers and not the other way around

55
Q

Explain the factors that can lead to a poor MIS

A

Complexity of the system – systems must be able to deal with the detail managers require, but should not be too complex to use. MIS need to be simple to
use so that all managers are capable of using them in their day-to-day work.

Lack of formal methods when designing the MIS– systems analysts may not following proper design methodologies and taking short cuts will result in a
less than perfect system. Proper systems analysis takes time and effort but the resulting MIS is much better than MIS developed using less formal methods

Lack of management knowledge about ICT systems and their capabilities – Management should not rely upon the knowledge of the ICT development staff, and should try to keep up-to-date with new developments in ICT systems, to ensure that they use the best systems available to them.

Inadequate initial analysis - Inadequate analysis results in a system unable to perform a key task or that does not behave according to the original objectives.
E.g. if the initial analysis is done by someone inexperienced, they might not fully analyse the information requirements of management.

Inappropriate hardware and software - the hardware, (speed of the file server, speed of data transfer, etc.) all affect the speed at which management information can be extracted from all the data held. If the system is too slow then managers will only use the system when absolutely necessary. The MIS software
should make it easy for managers to construct conditions for the extraction of the
information they need and they should be able to choose how the information is presented.

Lack of professional standards - the British Computer Society (BCS) sets standards of practice to be observed by its members. Employing a member of the
BCS ensures that the job should be performed in a professional manner. Not all computer professionals are members of the BCS, and don’t conform to their
standards. This could result in some professionals taking on jobs they are not experienced in in order to gain experience, but they may do a bad job of it.
Alternatively, they may the try to persuade the organisation that they need a system that they can implement, which may not be what the organisation requires.

56
Q

Explain what is meant by Internal and External data in MIS

A

MIS use data that is both internal and external to the organisation.

Internal data was created within the organisation.

External data originated from outside of the business.

• Eg: To produce information about the effectiveness of a marketing campaign may include information about competitors as well as information about costs and sales from their internal ICT systems.

• Schools use MIS in various ways. For example, schools need to ensure they have the resources to cope with increases in the population.
Internal information might include admission figures from previous years, details of brothers and sisters of
existing pupils who will eventually start at the school, details of resources such as staff, rooms, desks, etc. External information sources could be figures from primary schools, census details (for indications of population), details of immigration, local
authority data, etc.

Information Technology A-Level (2 decks)

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