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(a) Define the term application software.
[1]
Application software is a collection of related
programs designed to
perform a specific task or to solve a particular problem for the user.
Other correct answers should also receive credit. [1 mark]
(b) List three advantages and three disadvantages of custom-built
software. [6]
One mark should be awarded for each correct
advantage named (up to a
maximum of three marks) and one mark should be awarded for each
correct disadvantage named (up to a maximum of three marks).
Examples of advantages include the following:
- Custom-built software is usually suitable, as it is based on the
user’s
requirements.
- Custom-built software is usually efficient, as only code relevant
to the
user’s requirements is developed.
- Alterations to custom-built software can usually be made easily,
as source code and other related resources are readily available.
Examples of disadvantages include the following:
- Custom-built software is usually expensive.
- The acquisition time for custom-built software is usually quite
slow.
- There is normally a limited amount of feedback.
Other correct answers should also receive credit. [6 marks]
(c) Describe three factors that may influence the consumer in his
or her choice of
software packages. [6]
One mark should be awarded for each factor
named (up to a maximum of
three marks) and one mark should be awarded for each satisfactory
elaboration (up to a maximum of three marks). Examples include the
following:
- Definition of requirements (1 mark). The user company cannot forget
about company objectives, etc. (1 mark).
- Study of range (1 mark). A range of packages should be examined
in depth before a choice is made and existing users should be consulted
(1 mark).
- Interfacing (1 mark). Consideration should be given to how easy
a package would interface with the user’s existing system (1
mark).
- Amendments (1 mark). At least one member of the company’s staff
must be completely conversant with the operations and capabilities
of the package (1 mark).
- Performance (1 mark). Consideration should be given to the efficiency
of the package, with regards to average and maximum run times (1 mark).
Other correct answers should also receive credit. [6 marks]
(d) What is an integrated package? [2]
An integrated package has the combined functions
of a word processor, a spreadsheet package, etc. (1 mark). Thus, instead
of having to purchase a number of individual packages, only a single
package needs to be purchased (1 mark).
Other correct answers should also receive credit. [2 marks]
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