Information Systems: Uses Of ICT In Business And Education

Computer-aided design (CAD) software allows a user to draw accurate plans and designs.

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) systems produce objects using computer-controlled machines.

The output from a CAD system may be input to control a CAM process.

Features of CAD/CAM packages:

• Zoom
• 3D images
• Rotation
• Hatching or rendering
• Wire drawings
• Costings
• Calculation of stresses and strains
• Walk-through
• Clip-art

CAD packages require a computer with:

• High processor speed
• Large main memory (RAM)
• Graphics card
• Graphics tablet
• High-resolution large screen
• Plotter

Examples of use of CAD:

• Product design
• Garden design
• House design
• Fashion design

Electronic point-of-sale (EPOS) tills are set up to identify goods, look up prices and produce an itemised bill for the customer.

Data is entered using a range of devices, including:

• Hand-held barcode reader
• Laser flatbed scanner
• Keypad
• Electronic scales
• Smart-card reader
• Magnetic-***** reader
• Self-scan device
• Shelf-edge computers
• Touch screen
• Automatic till

Products are then identified using a unique barcode. The barcode represents a number.

Stock control is carried out automatically as EPOS tills are linked by LAN to the store's file server.

Just-in-time control systems allow fewer items of stock to be held at the shop, thus reducing storage and stock costs.

Customers can be issued with loyalty cards that provide them with discounts based on previous purchases made.

Online shopping allows customers to purchase goods 24 hours a day.

In education, ICT supports the Internet and encyclopedia CD-ROMs are used for research purposes.

CAL (computer-assisted learning) refers to a range of computer packages that allow a student to study using a computer system.

Authorising software allows the rapid creation of tageted CAL packages.

CBT (computer based trainingg) refers to the use of simulation to teach a skill.

Distance learning allows learners to follow coursesremotely- the courses may not be available locally. It can include:

• Video conferencing, which allows a learner to join a class remotely
• Online learning, which involves using learnin materils over the Internet at a time and place that suits the learner
• Discussion with a tutor or other course members using chat rooms

Revision programmes are available to students to help support their learning.

Interactive whiteboards are frequently used in classrooms.

ICT plays a major role in educational administration.

Computer-based student registration uses a variety of methods:

• OMR forms
• Student swipe cards
• Wireless networks with hand-held registration folders
• Classroom computers linked to LAN
• Student identification using retina or fingertip scanning

ICT is used in student record keeping.