Informatics System Analysis and Design (C798)

Correct Answer

B. Low-power radio waves to send and receive data between RFID tags and readers.

Explanation

RFID (Radio-Frequency Identification) technology operates by using low-power radio waves to communicate between RFID tags and readers. These waves allow for wireless communication, enabling automatic tracking and identification of objects without requiring direct line-of-sight. RFID is widely used in supply chain management, inventory tracking, and security systems.

Why other options are wrong

A. High-frequency radio waves to send and receive data between RFID tags and readers.

RFID systems use a range of frequencies, but not all operate at high frequencies. Some systems use low frequencies (LF) or ultra-high frequencies (UHF), depending on the application. High-frequency RFID (HF) is just one type and is typically used for applications like contactless payment and library tracking, making this answer too narrow.

C. Bar codes to eliminate the need for direct line of sight to the RFID tags.

Bar codes and RFID are distinct technologies. Bar codes require a direct line of sight to be scanned, whereas RFID does not. RFID technology functions wirelessly and can work through materials like plastic or fabric, making it superior for tracking multiple items at once.

D. Radio waves to send and receive data between bar-coded tags.

Bar-coded tags do not use radio waves. Bar codes rely on optical scanning technology, meaning they need to be physically visible to a scanner. RFID, on the other hand, transmits data wirelessly, making this answer incorrect.

Correct Answer

B. Computer systems for orders, accounting, and payroll

Explanation

A business plan often discusses the necessary support systems to ensure efficient operations. This includes essential computer systems that manage orders, financial transactions, and employee payroll, as these are critical to business continuity and efficiency.

Why other options are wrong

A. Organizational structure

While organizational structure is an important part of a business plan, it is not typically categorized under the support system. Support systems focus on tools and resources that assist daily operations.

C. Counseling

Counseling is generally related to employee well-being or human resources rather than a core business support system discussed in a business plan.

D. Logistics

Logistics is a vital function in supply chain management, but it is considered an operational strategy rather than a general support system for a business plan.

Correct Answer

C. Iterative

Explanation

The iterative methodology is well-suited for projects where requirements are somewhat unclear, and the technology is somewhat unfamiliar. By breaking the project into smaller cycles, teams can gradually refine the system based on feedback and learning from previous iterations. This approach is particularly useful for complex projects with high schedule visibility, as stakeholders can see progress at each iteration.

Why other options are wrong

A. Waterfall

Waterfall is a linear methodology best suited for projects with well-defined requirements and stable technology. It lacks the flexibility needed for unclear requirements and unfamiliar technology.

B. Parallel

Parallel development speeds up delivery by developing different system components simultaneously, but it does not inherently handle unclear requirements well. It works best when requirements are well-defined.

D. System prototyping

System prototyping is helpful for gathering user feedback but is less effective for handling complexity and unfamiliar technology since it focuses more on user interface aspects than overall system architecture.

E. Throwaway prototyping

Throwaway prototyping helps clarify requirements before full development but is not as effective for projects involving complexity and unfamiliar technology.

Correct Answer

b. Processing.

Explanation

Processing refers to the transformation of raw data into meaningful, structured information that businesses can use for decision-making. This process includes data entry, calculations, categorization, and summarization.

Why other options are wrong

a. Mining.

Data mining refers to analyzing large datasets to uncover patterns and trends, but it does not inherently transform raw data into meaningful information.

c. Acquiring.

Acquiring data refers to collecting and gathering raw data, not transforming it into meaningful information.

d. Communicating.

Communicating refers to sharing or distributing information, but it does not involve the actual transformation of raw data into meaningful insights.

e. Extracting.

Extracting involves retrieving specific data from sources, but it does not necessarily convert the data into meaningful information.

Correct Answer

d. A method for stressing customer satisfaction

Explanation

Extreme Programming (XP) is an Agile software development methodology that prioritizes customer satisfaction through frequent releases, continuous feedback, and close collaboration between developers and users. XP emphasizes rapid, iterative cycles of development to ensure that the final product aligns closely with customer needs and expectations. Key practices include test-driven development, pair programming, and continuous integration, all of which contribute to high-quality software with a strong focus on user satisfaction.

Why other options are wrong

a. A 'Quick and Dirty' system

XP does emphasize rapid development, but it does not sacrifice quality. It enforces strict coding standards, frequent testing, and continuous feedback, making it a disciplined approach rather than a "quick and dirty" method.

b. A series of versions

While XP involves frequent releases, its primary focus is not on versioning but on ensuring constant user feedback and adaptability to changes.

c. A method for exploring design alternatives

XP is more about delivering functional software in small, manageable increments rather than exploring multiple design possibilities. Other methodologies, such as design thinking or prototyping, are more suited for exploring design alternatives.

e. More explicit testing

While XP includes extensive testing (e.g., test-driven development and continuous testing), testing is a means to an end rather than its defining characteristic. The main goal of XP is delivering software that meets user needs effectively.

Correct Answer

c. A model where businesses sell products or services directly to individual consumers, exemplified by platforms like Amazon.com.

Explanation

In a B2C (business-to-consumer) model, businesses sell products or services directly to individual customers through online platforms, retail stores, or other channels. Companies like Amazon, Walmart, and Netflix follow the B2C model, catering directly to end consumers rather than other businesses.

Why other options are wrong

a. A model where businesses sell directly to other businesses, such as wholesalers to retailers.

This describes the B2B (business-to-business) model, where companies sell goods or services to other businesses rather than individual consumers.

b. A model that facilitates transactions between consumers and government entities.

This represents the G2C (government-to-consumer) model, where individuals interact with government services, such as tax payments or license renewals.

d. A model focused on business partnerships and collaborations to enhance service delivery.

This is more characteristic of B2B or B2B2C models, where businesses work together to improve service delivery, rather than directly selling to consumers.

Correct Answer

d. Web-based contacts cost less than contacts involving analysts.

Explanation

A well-designed Web support site provides self-service options, reducing the need for human intervention in customer support. By offering FAQs, troubleshooting guides, and automated responses, Web-based contacts reduce the burden on live analysts, ultimately lowering support costs for the company.

Why other options are wrong

a. They allow service desks to provide free support for most issues.

While Web-based support can reduce costs, it does not necessarily mean support is free. Companies may still incur costs for maintaining and updating the website.

b. Web-based contacts cost more than contacts involving analysts.

Web-based support is generally more cost-effective than human analysts, as it minimizes labor costs and allows for automation.

c. The Web-based contacts cost about the same as contacts involving analysts.

Web-based support is typically cheaper than live support, as it reduces the need for staffing large teams of human support agents.

Correct Answer

A. Agile teams have the empowerment to frequently respond to change and to learn on a project by changing the plan

Explanation

Agile methods are considered adaptive because they emphasize flexibility, allowing teams to adjust plans based on new insights, evolving customer needs, and ongoing learning. Agile methodologies prioritize iterative development, customer feedback, and team collaboration to ensure that the project adapts efficiently.

Why other options are wrong

B. The rate of development progress on an Agile project is constantly tracked to allow adaptation

Tracking progress is important, but adaptation in Agile is not solely based on progress tracking; it is driven by customer feedback and evolving requirements.

C. Project Managers are not needed in Agile methods because teams are self-organizing

While Agile teams are self-organizing, project managers or Scrum Masters often play facilitation roles. Agile does not eliminate leadership but redistributes responsibilities.

D. Workshops held at the beginning and the end of every iteration (timebox) allow the team to adapt the product specification

Workshops help refine requirements, but Agile adaptation occurs continuously, not just during scheduled workshops.

Correct Answer

b. To manage and process data from daily business transactions

Explanation

A transaction processing system (TPS) is designed to handle and process business transactions efficiently and accurately. These systems ensure that daily operations, such as sales, inventory updates, and financial transactions, are recorded in real time. TPS is essential for businesses to maintain up-to-date records and streamline workflows without interruptions.

Why other options are wrong

a. To analyze market trends and generate reports

Transaction processing systems do not focus on analyzing market trends; instead, they handle real-time business transactions. Market analysis is typically performed using decision support systems (DSS) or business intelligence tools that aggregate and interpret data.

c. To develop software applications for business use

Developing software applications is not the function of a transaction processing system. Software development falls under the domain of application development frameworks and integrated development environments (IDEs), while TPS is primarily for executing business transactions.

d. To provide customer support and service management

While transaction processing systems may be used in customer service processes, their primary role is not customer support. Customer relationship management (CRM) systems are specifically designed for handling customer interactions, service requests, and support management.