problem 1:
a) Define the words program, package, application and data.
b) Identify the advantages when a supermarket uses barcode data capture:
• for the CUSTOMER
• for the supermarket itself
c) In an office, the computer output might be displayed on the screen or printed. Identify conditions when:
• screen output would be more suitable
• printer output would be more suitable
d) In a computer run, details are being extracted from a file, the file updated and output sent to the printer. If there are hundreds of records being updated, a problem would occur if there was a fatal problem in which the run terminated halfway through. In brief describe how this situation can be overcome.
problem 2:
a)
i) Describe the overall aim of STOCK CONTROL (computerized or manual).
ii) Describe the advantages of computerizing stock control.
b) Name four printouts which might come out of a stock control system. For each:
• State how it will be used and
• By whom
c) NumberOnOrder is one field on the stock file holding the number of that product already ordered from the supplier. Describe why it is present and how it is used.
problem 3: An athletic club has over 200 members. The club organizes regular competitions between its own members and against other clubs where several teams might be formed – junior, men and women. All the details of members are held on a computer file.
a) A new member attends the club and supplies information about him which is keyed into the computer while he is present.
List ten fields which would require to be held for this member, giving a reason for comprising each.
b) Propose ways in which the club could use the file for the benefit of all.
problem 4: A major bank will run many different applications. Some of the applications are run in a local branch and others are activated at a central site. Consider as well that the bank might have a million customers, some with several kinds of accounts.
For each application, describe:
• Where the application will run
• How it is achieved – describe the files, the contents and other data which is involved
a) Monthly statements sent out by post to customers who have standard current accounts.
b) Customer investments which the bank monitors and recommends changes.
c) Bank profitability.
d) Customers using an ATM.