WeekTopicContent 1Office EquipmentMeaning, types, importance, uses and care 2AdvertisingMeaning, types, functions and advertising media 3TransportationMeaning, importance, types, advantages and disadvantages 4CommunicationMeaning, types, agents and functions.
5Consumer Protection and Awareness Meaning, need for consumer protection, awareness, rights of consumers and organs. 6Trial balanceMeaning, uses, formation and identification of balance sheet items. 7Trading AccountMeaning, purpose, items of trading and preparations. 8Profit and Loss Account Meaning, purpose, items and preparation 9Balance SheetMeaning, items uses, classification of items and preparation.
Definition: Office equipment are machines, tools, or devices that facilitate or simplify the activities in an office. Types of office machines/equipment Typewriter ( i.e. manual or electric/electronic) Computer and computer printer Adding machine and calculator Duplicating machine
Adding and calculating machines: Are devices used to perform mathematical operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication and division. Some also list the work done, an example is the cash register. Duplicating machine: It is an equipment that allows several copies of documents to be produced from a prepared master copy ( I.e. stencil). Examples are: Ink or stencil duplicator Spirit duplicator Offset duplicator
Photo coping machine: It is a machine used to produce exact copies of a document and also in large copies and colour if required. Filing cabinet: It is a device with drawers used to keep/store files, important documents or valuables in office. Fax machine ( facsimile): It is a special device that sends the exact copy of typed, handwritten, or pictorial information to another office anywhere in the world via the attached telephone number.
Scanner: It is a sophisticated device or digitizing technique that allows exact copy of a document to be sent ( i.e. scanned) into the computer of another user. Perforator: It is used to make tiny neat holes on paper/documents for easy filing. Stapler: This is a device used to fasten a stack of paper firmly in place. Shredder: It is a device used to tear into pieces or destroy completely unwanted documents.
Importance/advantages of office equipment They save time. They reduce employees’ stress. Minimize error and allow for accurate and standard jobs to be done. Allow for easy storage and retrieval of documents. Lead to higher productivity and give businesses competitive edge. They can also bring about higher profits.
Disadvantages Some machines are very costly to install. Equipment break down may reduce productivity. Use of machines causes loss of jobs. Some may only be handled by trained experts which may further slow down work and increase cost.
Care and safety of office equipment Only know ledged staff should be allowed to operate them. The machines should be serviced regularly. Misuse and over-use of the machine must be avoided. Proper electrification must be ensured at installation. Electronic devices must always be switched off from main source when not in use. Malfunctioning or faults must be reported on- time.
Questions to ask or factors to consider before procuring office equipment Is it needful or essential? Will it save time and labour? Is the machine standard Is it cost effective? Is it durable? Are the technicians for maintenance easily assessable?
Assignment Advice your mum on the decision of her organization/office to procure new photocopying machine as well as on it’s proper use.