Information Technology Unit 3, Unit 4, Unit 7

ICT Information and Communications Technology = Use of computers, telecommunications and electronics to gather, store, process and distribute information.

Internet International network of computers connected through the telephone network. It is used to transmit and receive data and information globally at a low cost

E-Mail Electronic Mai Method of sending a typed message and computer files directly from one computer to another. It is fast, efficient, convenient and cheap. Copies can be sent to several people at the same time It is not secure (hackers may gain access to information), incorrect addresss, technology may not be available, viruses are a problem

Intranet = Internal Computer Networks – networks of computers within a business. They allow employees to send files to each other over the computer network. Also called Local Area Networks (LAN)

EDI = Electronic Data Interchange Automated stock ordering system that allows orders to be placed automatically from a computer in one business to a computer in another business using the Internet. (Companies need similar software etc) Minimum of paperwork and stock mgt costs Speeds up stock ordering Invoices, statements are sent out automatically IPayments are made automatically mproves cashflow and customer satisfaction Reduces human errror

Video Conferencing Virtual meeting where participants can see and hear each other through the use of video cameras, telephone links and monitors. Can take place over any distance Reduces travel time Reduces costs

Software Programs that can be used on computers e.g. Microsoft Office (Windows 7 and 8) Word Processing – reports, letters Spreadsheets – calculations, budgets Powerpoints - presentations Databases – clients and employee details Desk top Publishingn – leaflets, brochures

Teleworking/E-working Employee works on the move or from home (Using laptop, tablet or phone) The employee needs access to office files via email, internet and telephone Employees travel less and have more freedom to choose their hours of work

Benefits of IT – page 65 Speed Location Decision making Management structures

Risks of IT Information security E-crime System failure – interent down Expense – maintenance, equipment replacement

CAD Computer Aided Design Used in Design of products Use of computers to assist in the creation, modification, analysis, or optimisation of a design

CAM Computer Aided Manufacture Using computers to automate part of the work on an assembly line to significantly reduce labour costs and improve quality control

CIM Computer Integrated Manufacture Uses ICT (such as robotics) to control the entire production process, from design, and stock control to assembly and quality control. Reduces labour costs Needs careful management control to avoid disruptions to the process

Impact of technology on Production and Stock Control EDI CAD CAM CIM Reduced costs and increased efficiency

Impact of IT on human resources Redundancy E-working Training – Payroll management

Impact of IT on costs and financial management New technology - expensive Maintenance Speed and accuracy increased Less transport costs – videoconferencing Advertising and marketing costs reduced due to ecommerce – websites EDI reduces costs of paperwork

Impact of IT on management Human Resource manager – dealing with redundancies, training, industrial relations Viruses, power cuts, internet accesss, broadband Data security – Data Protection Act1988 and 2003

Impact of IT on marketing

E Commerce Also known as B2C (Business to Consumer) Using the internet to sell to consumers

E Business Also known as B2B (business to business) Using the internet to conduct all types of business and financial transactions, not just from business to consumers. It includes buying and selling to other businesses.

M Commerce Using mobile phone technology for business and financial transactions