ICT in Finance Flashcards
internet
Saves time as reduces amount of trips required to go to the bank, but security has to be of high level and technology has to be working to access that money and keep it safe
Video conferencing
It is efficient, cost effective and scalable, but if there are network issues calls have to be cancelled which can take time
Spreadsheets
Spreadsheets store information in columns which can be manipulated and used in calculations.
Can be used to carry out calculations rather than having to do them by hand.
Can easily hold information within spreadsheets.
Relies on one person to do and if one small thing is wrong the whole spreadsheet can be wrong.
Databases
Databases store information in a table in columns and rows. There can be different calculation
s made within databases. They can be used to store transaction data and customer accounts. Advantage: They keep data secure.
Disadvantage: The software for databases can be complex.
BACS payment
BACS is a form of electronic payment transfer which is secure and instant. It allows payments to be made between businesses and customers and businesses.
Advantage: Cheap way to send money between people.
Disadvantage: BACS payments will only transfer on business days.
What are the benefits of using ICT in finance?
- Increased efficiency
- Increased flexibility
- Increase in the amount of data and information that can be handled
- Increased customer satisfaction
- Competitive edge until rivals catch up
- Possibility of reduced staffing costs
- Creation of home workers
- Access to new markets and customers
These benefits highlight how ICT can enhance operational capabilities in finance.
What is a spreadsheet?
An electronic document where data is arranged in rows and columns of a grid that can be manipulated and used in calculations.
Spreadsheets like Microsoft Excel are widely used in finance for various tasks.
List the advantages of using spreadsheets in finance.
- Formulae function allows for instant calculations
- Time-saving using spreadsheet templates
- Easy to amend or edit
- Information can be secured with a password
These advantages make spreadsheets a popular choice for financial tasks.
What are the disadvantages of using spreadsheets?
- Reliant on a small group or one person
- Open to human error
- One wrong number can affect the entire document
These disadvantages highlight the risks associated with spreadsheet usage.
What are the costs associated with using ICT in finance?
- Initial and ongoing costs of hardware and equipment
- Ongoing costs of replacing and upgrading systems
- New furniture for housing equipment
- Staff training costs
- Loss of efficiency during staff training
- Risks from computer viruses/hackers
- Health and safety issues for staff
Understanding these costs is crucial for financial planning when implementing ICT.
What is a database?
An organized collection of structured information or data, typically stored electronically in a computer system.
Databases are essential for managing financial transactions in a finance department.
List the advantages of using databases in finance.
- Increased data consistency
- Improved security
These advantages help finance departments manage sensitive information effectively.
What are the disadvantages of using databases?
- Complex software
- Requires more memory
These challenges can affect the usability of databases in a finance department.