6 ICT applications

Key objectives
The objectives of this chapter are to revise: l computers in medicine
l communications – information systems
l modelling applications – 3D printing
– financial l expert systems
– civil engineering l computers in the retail industry
– flood water management l recognition systems
– traffic management – OMR, QR codes, OCR, RFID, near-field
– weather forecasting communication and biometrics
l computer-controlled systems l satellite systems
l school management systems l GPS, geographic information systems and
l online booking systems media communication.
l banking applications

6.1 Communication
6.1.1 Communication media
Communication of information to the public can be done via newsletters,
posters, websites, multimedia presentations, media streaming and
e-publications.
Newsletters and posters
Newsletters and posters can easily be produced using a word processor.
Photographs needed for either type of document can be obtained using
a digital camera, finding images on the internet, finding images stored
on a secondary storage device or by scanning in hard copies of photos.
Spellcheckers are used to check the spelling of any text.
Newsletters are useful to get information to a target group and can be
printed (and distributed) or made available online. Posters are a good way
of publicising an event and can vary in size. They usually require high-
quality printing and should be eye-catching and strategically placed to
catch the public’s attention. The following table summarises the required
features for newsletters and posters to work well:

Features of newsletters Features of posters

● They need to be well set out and easy to read ● These should contain only relevant information (e.g.
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● Columns should be used if there is a large amount of name of event, day of event and contact details)
text and images ● Posters should be colourful and attractive in design
● It is possible to use upper case letters and bold fonts to catch the eye
to emphasise something ● Remember that posters have a limited life (e.g. rental
● It is possible to use actual photos and clip art to make costs if placed on a billboard and weathering of the
the newsletters and posters more interesting and poster)
informative
● One drawback to remember is that newsletters may
be just thrown away without even being read

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6.1 Communication

Websites
Websites are used to show information online rather than printed out. Fees
need to be paid to the web server owner to allow adverts, for example, to be
shown. It is also necessary to pay for the website to be developed and also for
maintenance. Despite these additional costs, using websites allows advertising
of products and services on a global scale. The following table summarises the
advantages and disadvantages of using websites to advertise.

Advantages of using websites to advertise Disadvantages of using websites to advertise

● Sound/video/animation can be added ● Websites can be hacked into and modified or viruses introduced
● Links to other websites/hyperlinks can ● Risk of potential pharming
be used ● It is necessary for the potential customers to have a computer and
● Use of hotspots internet connection
● Buttons to navigate/move around the ● It is not as portable as a paper-based system (although with
website leading to more information modern smartphones and phablets this is fast becoming untrue)
● Can use hit counters to see how many ● It is possible for customers to go to undesirable websites (either
people have visited the website by accident or as a result of the pharming attack) – this can lead to
● Can be seen by a global audience distrust from customers
● Cannot be defaced or thrown away ● There is a need for the company to maintain the website once it is
● It is much easier to update a website set up – this can be expensive
(and there is no need to do a reprint and ● Because it is a global system, it is more difficult to target the
then distribute the new version) correct audience using website advertising

Multimedia presentations
Multimedia presentations are better than, for example, static posters. This Tip
type of presentation can be set up anywhere and can make good use of
For more on
sound and graphics, which are more likely to catch people’s attention than presentations, see
a static display. There are a number of advantages and disadvantages in Chapter 19, p.156.
using multimedia presentations:

Disadvantages of using multimedia

Advantages of using multimedia presentations presentations
● Use of sound and animation/video effects which are more likely ● There is a need to have special equipment,
to grab the attention of the audience, and can also make the which can be expensive
presentation easier to understand ● Equipment failure can be a disaster when
● It is possible to have interactive/hyperlinks built into the giving multimedia presentations
presentation. This means the presentation could access a ● Wherever the presentation is given there
company’s website or even key files stored in the cloud (such as needs to be internet access
video footage, images, spreadsheets and so on) ● There is a danger when using multimedia
● Use of transition effects allows a presentation to display facts in presentations that the focus is on
in a key or chronological order the medium (that is, the multimedia
● The presentations can be interactive presentation) rather than the message or
● They are more flexible than other types of communication facts
media because of the links to websites and other external ● It is very easy to make a bad presentation
systems (e.g. the cloud); the presentation can be tailored to suit with too many animation effects and too
a particular audience much text or images
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Media streaming
Media streaming is when users watch movies/videos or listen to music on
devices connected to the internet. There is no need to download or save the
files first (saving storage). Data can be transmitted and played in real time.
When streaming, a music or video file is sent out as a series of data
packets, which are interpreted by the user’s browser. Only internet speeds
of 25 Mbits/sec or better can be used to allow for smooth streaming
services. Because playback of the files is much faster than the rate at
which the files are received, it is necessary to buffer the data packets to
avoid ‘freezing’ (a buffer is a temporary store).

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6 ICT applications

e-Publications
Most material published on paper is now available electronically online, for
example:
l ebooks (digital books)
l e-magazines (digital magazines)
l e-newspapers (digital newspapers)
l e-libraries (digital libraries)
The table below summarises some of the advantages and disadvantages in
offering publications online:

Advantages of e-publications Disadvantages of e-publications

● They can contain moving images and music/voice-overs ● The need to pay for website time
● They are much easier to update than printed documents ● The need to pay for development and maintenance
● They are cheaper to produce since there is no need to ● The risk of malware attacks
print out books and magazines and to distribute them ● It can be more difficult to read since the user has to
● There is the potential for more advertising revenue navigate between pages
(since the reader audience is potentially much larger) ● Outdated software on a device may make it
● There is no unsold stock at the end of the week/month, impossible to download the e-publication
which wastes money and requires disposal ● If the user has a slow internet or poor connection,
● The books and magazines can be interactive download speeds may prevent videos and sound
from loading

6.1.2 Mobile communications

Smartphones are increasingly being used as the main form of communication.
They use a cellular network of towers that give continuous smartphone
coverage over large areas.
Smartphones use a subscriber identity module (SIM) card – this links
the smartphone to the user’s account, allowing them to make phone calls
and access the internet on the move. Some smartphones also use e-SIM
(a small chip embedded in the phone’s circuitry that works like a near
field communication chip and can’t be removed). This allows two network
providers to be used on the same phone – for example, one SIM could be
for business use and the other for personal use. Since the e-SIM is writable,
it is much easier to change network operators with a simple phone call.
Some of the features of smartphones include:

Feature Description
Short messaging service ● This is a quick way of communicating using a phone’s virtual keyboard
(SMS) or text messaging ● The recipient of the message doesn’t need to be available since the message is
stored on the phone to be read whenever convenient
● Uses predictive texting which speeds up typing (but can lead to some amusing errors!)
Phone calls ● The most obvious use of a smartphone; their small size means they are likely to be
on your person all the time
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● Provided there is a cellular network signal, smartphones can be used anywhere

while on the move; this makes it easier to keep in contact with people
Voice over Internet ● VoIP allows audio and visual communication over the internet
Protocol (VoIP) ● All the sender needs is a microphone and a speaker or an internet-enabled phone (a
forward facing camera is also needed for video calls)
● The recipient can receive calls using a smartphone, landline phone or another
computer/tablet
● However, sound quality can be poor at times
● There are the usual security issues with internet devices
● Video calling needs apps such as Skype, Facetime or Zoom

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6.2 Modelling applications

Feature Description
Internet access ● Using a smartphone/tablet connected to the cellular network allows internet access
on the move
● Software in the phone detects the type of device connecting to the internet and the
website sends out optimised web pages (the web page is modified to suit the screen
size and its aspect ratio)
● Smartphones automatically use WiFi if available rather than the cellular network;
the WiFi connection is cheaper, consumes less battery power, utilises more
bandwidth and is usually a more stable connection
Payment using mobile ● Refer to section 6.9
phones
Cameras ● Smartphones and tablets have built-in cameras; this allows them to be used in a
number of applications (such as reading QR codes) – refer to section 2.2

6.2 Modelling applications

Computer modelling is the construction and use of a computer-based
mathematical (algorithmic) representation of a real-life system. A
simulation uses a model to study the behaviour of the system under
different scenarios. It can help to predict how the system will work in
unusual circumstances.

6.2.1 Computer modelling

Modelling of a real-life system has a number of advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages of using modelling Disadvantages of using modelling
● Using computer models is less expensive than having to build ● A model is only as good as the programming
the real thing (e.g. a bridge!) or the data entered; the simulation will
● On many occasions it is safer to use a computer model (some depend heavily on these two factors
real situations are hazardous, e.g. chemical processes) ● Although building the real thing can be
● When using computer modelling it is much easier to try out expensive, sometimes modelling is also a
various scenarios in advance very costly option, and the two costs need to
● It is nearly impossible to try out some tasks in real life be compared before deciding whether or not
because of the high risk involved or the remoteness (e.g. to use modelling
outer space, under the sea, nuclear reactors, crash testing ● People’s reactions to the results of a
cars etc.) simulation may not be positive; they may not
● It is often faster to use a computer model than do the real trust the results it produces (modelling can
thing (some applications would take years before a result never mimic real life and there will always
was known, e.g. climate change calculations, population be a difference between the results from
growth etc.) modelling and reality)

Examples of modelling applications include:

l personal finances
l bridge and building design
l flood water management
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l traffic management
l weather forecasting.
Personal finances
This is often done using a spreadsheet allowing ‘what if?’ scenarios. It
makes use of the software’s features to predict the outcome if various
values in spreadsheet cells are changed. Refer to Chapter 20 for more
information on the use of spreadsheets in financial modelling.

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6 ICT applications

Bridge and building design

When an engineer or architect designs a new building or bridge, a 3D
computer model is used to test the integrity of the structure. Very often a
scale model is made of the final structure and a combination of computer
modelling and wind tunnel tests are carried out.
A number of scenarios are considered when carrying out the simulation using
models and wind tunnels; for example, when constructing a new bridge:
l How much traffic would the bridge be expected to take?
l What would be the effect of an accident (e.g. would the bridge
integrity be compromised? How easy is it for the emergency services to
reach the accident? and so on)?
l What are the effects of very strong winds and typical earthquake
activity on the bridge structure?
l Vibration effects – every structure has a natural frequency which could
cause it to sway and collapse if the frequency is reached).
Simulation studies are also carried out when designing new buildings.
Again, a number of scenarios are considered:
l What are the effects of hurricane winds, extreme flooding and
earthquake activity (e.g. tall buildings sway in the wind and this effect
needs to be studied and minimised to prevent occupants feeling ill)?
l What are the results of disasters such as a fire (can the emergency
services get to the fire before any major structural damage makes the
building unstable)?
l How to efficiently move people in and out of a large building (e.g.
Willis Tower (Chicago, USA) houses over 400 000 people and it is
necessary to simulate that number of people leaving and entering the
building (travelling between all 108 floors) – the most efficient lift
usage would need to be carefully modelled).
Modelling can find out any flaws in the original designs and help to
improve the final version before construction starts. Any changes during
or after construction can be very expensive.
Flood water management
As the world’s climate changes, flood water management becomes
increasingly important. Modelling allows risk assessments to be made to
identify the sources of flooding, the extent of potential flooding and any
mitigation methods.
Inputs to the computer model would include:
l cross-section of rivers and sea inlets to identify bottlenecks
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l bridges, weirs and other ‘obstructions’ in the flood area

l factors affecting the flow rate of water (e.g. tides and wind)
l boundaries (e.g. consider upstream tributary rivers)
l time of day and time of year the simulation is done
l results of previous flooding behaviour for comparison.
Flood risk management of cities is particularly important, for example
Venice, London, Amsterdam and Sao Paulo are all part of the global urban
flooding network. Modelling allows automated flood defence systems to
be developed.

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6.2 Modelling applications

The main advantages of having an automated flood defence system are:

l sensors could be used offshore to monitor sea height and wave height
(and possibly other factors, such as wind speeds); using sensors would
give a much faster response to any deteriorating conditions in a bay
l using a computer system is safer, since using humans to monitor
conditions could potentially put them at risk
l data collection is continuous and more accurate than manual
measurements (readings can also be taken more frequently)
l because of the faster response to changing conditions, people can be
warned well in advance of any flooding actually taking place
l data from the sensors could also be fed into the simulation modelling
the flood area; this could lead to further improvements as more data is
gathered, which means the simulation becomes closer to reality.
Traffic management
Computer modelling can be used in traffic management to see the impact
of heavy traffic and accidents on the flow of traffic. Traffic management
modelling is often used when setting up major roadworks to see how they
affect traffic flow and when optimising traffic light times at a junction.
Data to be collected to input into a model used to simulate, for example,
the traffic lights at a junction could be:
l number of vehicles passing the junction in all directions
l time of day also needs to be recorded for each vehicle being counted
l traffic at different times of day and how long it takes to clear
l other factors that affect traffic (e.g. a pedestrian crossing nearby)
l the time it takes the slowest vehicle to pass through the junction
l other factors, such as accidents, filtering and emergency vehicles.
Once the above data has been collected and is fed into the model,
different scenarios can be tried out to optimise traffic light timings and to
determine where to place traffic sensors in the road. The final version will
receive live data and a central control box can compare actual traffic data
with simulation data allowing the model to be fine-tuned.
After all the testing is done, the actual traffic light control system is
installed. This works as follows:
l road sensors collect data about all vehicles travelling through the
junction (in all directions)
l this data is sent to a control box
l the live data is compared to stored data from the simulation and
signals are sent to the lights to change colour as necessary.
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Weather forecasting
Weather forecasting can also be done by computer modelling. Data such
as rainfall, air temperature, wind speed, wind direction, air pressure and
humidity levels are all measured and sent to a central computer.
The central computer runs the simulation and predicts the weather forecast
for the next few days (and sometimes long-range forecasts are made). After
each forecast is made, the actual weather conditions are compared to the
predicted weather allowing improvements to be made to the model.
Weather forecast simulations often show changing conditions in an
animated way, for example rain, cloud, sun and wind changes are
superimposed onto a map of the area under consideration.

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6 ICT applications

Sample questions and responses

After running a simulation using a computer model, the city of Chicago
developed a new flood management system that automatically comes into Tips
play following dangerously high rainfall. All three parts of the
a) Explain why a computer model is used when developing the flood question are ‘describe’
management system. [3 marks] or ‘explain’, which
b) Describe what data needs to be input into the flood management means a set of very
model. [4 marks] comprehensive answers
c) Explain the benefits of having an automated system in place to prevent is required for maximum
flooding. [4 marks] marks.

Sample high-level answer

a) The number of possible scenarios is vast so it is necessary to run a computer
simulation to test out all the possible scenarios. To do this manually would
take many years. The simulation allows the engineers to study the flood area
and to input various situations to see how any possible flood management
system would work. This also allows ‘unknown’ situations to be modelled so
that any final solution would be as robust as possible.
b) The following data would need to be input into the model:
● cross-section of rivers and sea inlets to identify bottlenecks
● bridges, weirs and other ‘obstructions’ in the flood area
● factors affecting the flow rate of water (e.g. tides and wind)
● boundaries (e.g. consider upstream feeder rivers)
● time of day and time of year the simulation is done Teacher’s comments
● comparison of model results with actual flood behaviour.
c) The following benefits would come from using an automatic flood management The first answer is
system: very comprehensive for
● sensors could be used to monitor sea height and wave height (and possibly all three parts. If any
other factors, such as wind speeds); using sensors would give a much criticism is to be made,
faster response to any deteriorating conditions in the bay it is that they have
● using a computer system is safer, since using humans to monitor
probably given too much
information. While this
conditions could potentially put them at risk
is not necessarily a bad
● data collection is continuous and more accurate than manual
thing, it is important to
measurements, and readings can also be taken more frequently
keep an eye on the clock
● because of the faster response to changing conditions, people can be
and running out of room
warned well in advance of any flooding actually taking place
to write the answer is also
● data from the sensors could also be fed into the simulation modelling
a good clue that you have
the flood area; this could lead to further improvements as more data is tried to write too much to
gathered, which means the simulation becomes closer to reality. gain full marks.

The second sample

answers are a little too
Sample low-level answer
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vague. One mark would

a) A computer model would let us see the effects of flooding on Chicago. Actual probably be awarded for
data would be input so we can see on a screen how far the flooding would affect each of the three answers
the city. (giving 3 marks in total
b) We would need to input the volume of water and how many days it rained to for the question) since
work out how much flooding would occur. The model could use this data to show they have shown some
the extent of the flooding. understanding of the role
c) It would stop the city flooding as often and improve the flood defences saving of models at each stage of
lives and reducing property damage. the process.

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6.3 Computer-controlled systems

Exam-style questions for you to try

1 A publishing company produces a car magazine each month, which
shows new products, road tests and other motoring information. The
company has decided to offer an e-magazine (digital magazine) rather
than a paper-based, glossy magazine.
Describe three advantages and three disadvantages of doing this. [6]
2 Here is a list of five simulations (models) and a list of five reasons
why simulations (models) are carried out. By drawing arrows, match the
five simulations to the best reason why that simulation would be done.
Simulation Reason

A. Cost of building the real thing is too

1. Pilot training
expensive

B. Some situations are too dangerous to

2. Environmental modelling
human operators

C. It takes too long to get results back

3. Modelling bridge loading
from the real thing

D. It is almost impossible to the task for

4. Modelling a nuclear reaction
real

E. It is easier and safer to make changes

5. Space exploration
to a model than change the real thing
 [5]
3 A complex road junction will be modelled so that traffic lights can be
installed to optimise traffic flow.
a Explain what data needs to be collected and how it would be used
to develop and test the model
b Explain how the results of the model would be used in the real
traffic light control system.

 [8]

6.3 Computer-controlled systems

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6.3.1 Robotics in manufacturing

Robots are electro-mechanical devices designed to carry out tasks normally
done by humans. They are either under computer control or have their own
embedded microprocessor. Robots are used in many areas of manufacturing,
such as paint spraying of car body panels, welding metals and manufacturing
microchips. They can be ‘trained’ to do their task either by a set of
programmed instructions (written by a programmer) or by using sensors to
copy a human operator, with each operation then stored in memory.

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6 ICT applications

The table shows a number of advantages and disadvantages of using

robots in industry:
Advantages Disadvantages
● They can work in environments harmful to human ● Robots find it difficult to do ‘unusual’ tasks (e.g. one-
operators off glassware for a chemical company)
● They can work non-stop (24/7) ● They can cause higher unemployment (replacing
● They are less expensive in the long term (although skilled labour)
expensive to buy initially, they do not need wages) ● Since robots do many of the tasks once done by
● Higher productivity (do not need holidays etc.) humans, there is a real risk of certain skills (such as
● Greater consistency (e.g. every car coming off a welding) being lost
production line is identical) ● Because robots are independent of the skills base,
● They can do boring, repetitive tasks, leaving humans factories can be moved anywhere in the world (again
free to do other more skilled work (e.g. quality causing unemployment)
control or design work) ● The initial set-up and maintenance of robots can be
● To carry out different tasks, robots are fitted with expensive
different end-effectors (attachments); for example, a
spray gun, a welding gun and so on

6.3.2 Production control

Production line control using robots is used extensively in industry,
for example bottling and canning plants. The production line will be
continuous with various robots at each station given a specific task. Using
robots in this way leads to:
● faster operations (the number of bottles filled is faster than a human
could fill)
● much greater productivity (the production can run 24 hours a day,
every day)
● greater consistency (every bottle contains exactly the correct volume of
liquid)
● built-in quality control (automatic testing for foreign material such
as metal filings which would result in automatic rejection from the
production line)
● reduced cost to the consumer (although initial robot arms are
expensive, there are far fewer staff in the factory who would need
wages).
We will now look at how robots could be used in a bottling plant in full
detail:

actuator
operating valve
valve
computer sensor 2
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sensor 1

step-wise moving conveyer belt

actuator operating motor

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6.4 School management systems

● sensor 1 (a pressure sensor, light sensor or camera) detects the presence of

a bottle; this sensor is constantly sending signals back to the computer
● when the signal from sensor 1 indicates a bottle is present, the
computer sends a signal to an actuator which opens a valve allowing
liquid to flow into the bottle
● sensor 2 (a level sensor) is used to detect the correct liquid height in
the bottle; this sensor sends continuous signals back to the computer
● when the signal from sensor 2 indicates the bottle is full, the computer
sends a signal to an actuator to close the valve
● the computer then sends another signal to a second actuator which
operates a motor to move the conveyer belt to allow the next empty
bottle to take its correct position
● the whole process is continuous until stopped for maintenance, errors
occurring or a change in the process.

6.4 School management systems

6.4.1 Registration and attendance records of students
The traditional way to record registrations and attendance of a student is
to complete a daily paper-based register; this is both time-consuming and
error-prone. We will now consider two possible automatic methods that
could be used to track attendance.
Method 1 – use of magnetic ID cards
● In the morning a student swipes an ID card (this contains the name
FIRE-Academy
of the school, student’s name, student’s date of birth and a unique ID
number stored on a magnetic stripe).
● If the card data is read successfully then the student is registered as Paul Smith-012 234 555
present on a central database.
● If the student leaves the school/college (e.g. on their lunch break), the
ID card is again swiped and the database is updated as ‘not present’.
● This gives a comprehensive record of the student’s attendance, and is
better than a paper-based register should there be an emergency (e.g. a
fire), since there will be an accurate record of who is on the premises.
● This method also gives accurate attendance records for the entire
school/college term.
● Additional features to improve security could be: using a chip
embedded in the card so that the student needs to enter a PIN as well
as present the card. This chip could also be linked to GPS so that the
location of the student would also be known (but this feature could
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have privacy issues in some countries).

Method 2 – use of biometrics
● This second method uses fingerprint or face recognition to identify a
student (biometric identification); fingerprints or faces are stored on a
central database and the system requires the student to place their hand
on a reader or look at a camera. Their attendance is then recorded.
● Again, if the student leaves the premises, they carry out the same
process and the database is updated.
● Biometrics are unique and it would stop students ‘cheating’ by swiping
in with a borrowed or stolen card.

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6 ICT applications

There are a number of advantages and disadvantages of using biometric

methods rather than using magnetic cards:
Disadvantages of using biometric
Advantages of using biometric devices devices
● Fingerprints are unique, so it would ● It would take a long time to collect
be impossible for a student to sign the fingerprints for every student in
in pretending to be someone else the school
(with magnetic cards, a student ● The equipment needed to take and
could give their card to a friend read fingerprints is more expensive
and ask them to sign in for them) – than magnetic stripe reading
this gives more accurate data and equipment
improved security ● If a student cuts a finger, the
● Id cards could easily be lost – fingerprint may not be identified by
fingerprints cannot be lost the system (which would prevent
● Id cards could be affected by entry to the school)
magnetic fields (e.g. by being placed ● There are ‘invasion of privacy’
close to a mobile phone) which issues and some parents may object
would stop them working properly to having the fingerprints of their
● It is much easier to ‘clone’ (make children stored on a database
copies of) id cards than it is to copy
fingerprints (not impossible but
very difficult)

Student performance
Spreadsheets can be used to record results from tests and exams and
CAT standardises test
analyse the results and award grades according to some criteria. The
results to enable each
software could also produce graphs to allow student’s performances to be
student to be measured
compared (refer to Chapter 20, p.164) against the same
School management software also exists that analyses academic standard.
achievement and behaviour (e.g. attendance) and also generates CAT scores.
Computer-aided learning
Computer-aided learning (CAL) is used to enhance and not replace
traditional classroom teaching; CAL packages allow students to use
interactive software aimed at revision topics and tests. There are a number
of advantages and disadvantages of using CAL:
Advantages of using CAL Disadvantages of using CAL
● CAL is most effective when using micro-learning; this is where a ● CAL cannot give students the
topic is broken down into small modules which are easy to learn experience of handling laboratory
● The system allows interactive coursework to take place equipment, for example; experiments
● Students can learn when they want to and at their own pace shown in CAL are virtual in nature
● It allows VR learning to be used; with VR, the student is fully ● It is expensive and time-consuming to
immersed into the learning environment integrate CAL properly into the learning
● The student can stop at any point and return later to continue environment
where they left off ● Students can easily be distracted while
It is possible to retake tests until the student reaches the required online, for example going on to social
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●
skills level media sites, visiting websites or even
● CAL makes use of various multimedia (e.g. short video clips, playing online games
animation, music and interactive learning methods) ● It can lead to the isolation of a student
● The real goal of CAL is to stimulate student learning and not since they are spending their time on
actually replace teacher-based learning; if used properly it should their own in front of a computer screen;
be an integrated part of the student’s learning process this needs to be carefully managed
● CAL can make use of multiple-choice questions (MCQs) which ● CAL cannot answer unusual questions,
can be marked immediately by the computer system, giving and the student will need to seek out
instantaneous feedback to the student; other assessment methods guidance from a teacher; in other words,
can be used, such as fill in the missing words, crossword puzzles, CAL is not a self-contained learning
linking correct terms to descriptions and gaming system

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6.5 Booking systems

6.5 Booking systems

6.5.1 Online booking systems
Online booking systems are used by travel agencies, theatre/music
events, cinemas and sporting events. They have specific advantages and
disadvantages when compared to traditional, manual booking methods:

Advantages of online booking systems Disadvantages of online booking systems

● They prevent double-booking (which could happen in paper- ● The setting up and maintenance of online
based systems that didn’t update the system fast enough) booking systems are expensive
● The customer gets immediate feedback on the availability of ● All customers using this service need access
seats and whether or not their booking has been successful to a computer or mobile phone and a reliable
● The customer can make bookings at any time of the day internet connection
● The customer’s email allows the booking company to connect ● It is often more difficult to cancel the booking
‘special offers’ to their email and inform them of such offers and get your money back using online
automatically systems
● It is usually easier to browse the seating plans (particularly ● If the server is down for maintenance or if the
on flights) to choose the best seats available at the price system breaks down, it becomes impossible
● It is possible to reserve a seat for a period of time – this to book seats by any method (a temporary
allows a customer to make up their mind before finalising the paper-based system can’t be used because
booking of the seat (this was difficult to do with the older of the risk of double-booking occurring)
paper-based systems) ● If the website is not well designed, it can be
● Very often there are no printed tickets which saves postal difficult to make exactly the booking you want
costs and also allows impulse bookings only a few hours in or can lead you to make mistakes. This is a
advance particular issue with flight bookings where
● Online booking allows the use of modern correcting an error can cost the customer an
smartphone and tablet apps technology; additional fee
the customer is sent a QR code which ● Booking online does not allow you to build a
contains all the booking information personal relationship with the travel agent
necessary (this QR code is stored on the who might offer free upgrades or special
smartphone or tablet and just needs to offers that may not be available to online
be scanned at, for example, the theatre bookings
or airport on arrival):

One example is the online booking of theatre tickets (other examples have
a similar process). In this example, we have assumed that the customer
has already logged on to the theatre’s booking website (and the event is a
music concert at a seated venue):
● The customer clicks on
11 12 13 14 15 16 17 6
5 9 10
the performance they 8 18 1 7
4 9 2 8
3 7 12 13 14 15 16 17 0 2 9
2 5
6
9 10 11 18 1 2 10
8 19 2
E 1 4 7 12 13 14 15 2 0 23 E

wish to see. 3 6 10 11 16 17 21 24
2 5 9 1 8 22
8 19 2 25
1 4 7 11 12 13 14 15 0 2
D 3 6 8 9 10 16 1
7 21 3
2
D
2 5 7 1 8 1 22 4

● A date and time are

4 6 9 2 23 25
UPPER CIRCLE
C
1
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4
5 0
21
2
24
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C
2
B 1 B
typed in.
2 A
1
A 12 13 14 15
9 10 11 16 1
7 8 7 1

● The required number of

6 12 13 14 15 8
5 9 10 11 16 1 19
4 7 8 7 18 20
21
6 10 11 12 13 19
3 5 7 8 9 14 15 20 22
5 6
seats is also entered.
2 4 21 23
1 3 4 17 18 19 20 21 22 1 6 22
E 2 3 15 16 23 24 17 E
1 4 2 5 26 1 8 1 23
D
1 2 1 2 13 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 2 9 D
1 1 72
● The seating display at
13 14 23 2
C 1 0 1 1 2 4 25 8
B
C
B 1
01 26
DRESS CIRCLE A 1 A

the venue is shown on

29
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9 30
8
8
9 The seating display at the 27
28 31
7

the screen.
29
7
venue is shown on the screen
M W W 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 W W M
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6

33
5

30
6

L 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 W W L
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4

● The user selects their

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The user selects their seat(s) by

35
4
3

K 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 K
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36
3
2

34

J 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 J
2

highlighting the actual seats

37

seat(s) by highlighting
1

35

B B
1

A H 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 H A
on the screen display and then
G W 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 G
the actual seat(s) on the F 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 clicks CONFIRM to go to the 16 17 18 19 20 21 W F

screen and then clicks E 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 E

next part of the process
D 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 D

CONFIRM to go to the C W W 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 C
B 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 W W B

next part of the process. A 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 A

Please click here
STALLS
● The database is then to confirm your
searched to check the STAGE seating choice
availability of the
selected seats.

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6 ICT applications

● If the seats are available, the total price is shown plus the seat
numbers; this shows on another screen on the web page.
● If the customer is happy with this, they select CONFIRM on the screen.
● The seats are now temporarily set at NO LONGER AVAILABLE.
● The customer then enters their personal details or indicates that they
are a returning customer (in which case the website being used will
already have their details).
● Payment method is then selected and payment made.
● The theatre seats are booked in the customer’s name.
● The final details are again shown on the screen.
● An email is sent that contains a QR code with all their booking details
(this acts as their e-ticket); the QR code is scanned at the venue.
● The database is finally updated with the booking transaction and the
seats become permanently no longer available.

6.6 Banking systems

The use of computer technology has revolutionised how we do our banking
transactions:
● Using automatic teller machines (ATMs)
● Electronic funds transfer (EFT)
● Credit/debit card transactions
● Cheque clearing
● Internet banking.
The following table summarises each of the five banking features above,
including advantages and disadvantages:

Banking feature Description Advantages Disadvantages

ATMs Used by customers to ● It is possible to withdraw or ● The number of ATMs is reducing
withdraw or deposit deposit cash at any time in many areas
cash, deposit cheques, ● It is possible to access your ● There is always the potential
check account account anywhere in the world for shoulder surfing and card
balance, see a mini- ● It is a faster service than cloning at outside ATMs
statement, pay bills or waiting in a queue in the bank ● Some banks charge for using
do a money transfer ● There is no need to visit ATMs
the bank to carry out many ● There is a cash withdrawal limit
services, such as bill paying per day
● Loss of the personal touch
Electronic funds EFT allows money ● EFT is a very secure and very ● Once an amount of money has
transfer (EFT) transfer instructions quick method of payment been transferred, the bank
to be sent directly to ● It is less expensive than, for can’t reverse the transaction (it
and
the bank’s computer example, using cheques to pay requires an internal procedure to
Electronic fund system; no actual for goods and services take place which can take many
transfer at money is transferred ● Customers have the right to days)
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point-of-sale between accounts. It dispute any EFT payment for ● Customers must have the
(EFTPOS) is used, for example, up to 60 days necessary funds available for
to pay wages into an immediate transfer (unlike
account cheques, for example)
● It is not possible to guarantee the
EFTPOS terminals are
recipient is who they say they are
used when debit/credit
(e.g. using fake ID to collect the
cards are used to pay
money)
for services or goods;
the card is read by the
EFTPOS device and
the transaction takes
place if all checks are
satisfactory

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6.6 Banking systems

Banking feature Description Advantages Disadvantages

Credit/debit Small plastic cards ● Debit cards prevent debt ● The funds available on cards is
cards with a magnetic (customers are prevented limited to a daily amount (which
strip on the back from spending more money means large purchases may not
(containing account than they have in their account) be possible without informing the
number, sort code ● There is usually no charge bank first)
and expiry date, for for using the cards except in ● They can incur very large
example); smart/ certain circumstances (such overdraft fees if the bank allows
contactless cards also as some ATMs when taking out the customer to ‘go into the red’
have an embedded foreign currency abroad) ● For payments over a certain
chip (this contains ● They are well-suited to small amount a PIN is required; it is
additional data, such payments and are a quick and easy to forget a pin and after
as a PIN) convenient method of payment three failed attempts the card
● Relatively easy process to be will be cancelled
given a credit/debit card
Cheques A paper-based system ● It is more convenient and safer ● Cheques are not legal tender and
that has been around than carrying or paying by can be refused as a method of
for many years; cash payment
cheques are slowly ● A cheque can be drawn at any ● It can be a slow method of payment
being phased out by time up to six months after ● Easier for fraudsters than credit/
banks (the cheque being signed debit card transactions
clearing process is ● Cheques can be post-dated ● Relatively expensive method of
described below) ● Cheques can be traced if ‘lost’ payment
Internet banking This is covered fully in section 6.9.2 on p.72

6.6.1 Chip and PIN debit/credit card payments

This system is used when a customer pays for goods or services using a
keypad on an EFTPOS device.
● The customer enters their PIN using the keypad.
● The card is checked to see if it is valid (that is a check on the expiry
date, is it stolen and so on).
● The PIN code is read from the chip embedded in the card and is
compared to the one just entered by the customer on the keypad.
● If they match, the transaction goes to the next stage; if they don’t
match, the transaction is stopped and the card is declined.
● The recipient’s bank now contacts the customer’s bank and a check is
made to see whether they have sufficient funds to cover the cost of the
transaction.
● If the customer has insufficient funds, the transaction is stopped and
the card is declined.
● If everything is OK at this stage, the transaction is authorised and an
authentication code is generated and sent back to the EFTPOS device.
● Funds are then transferred from the customer’s bank to the recipient’s
bank and the customer is given a printed receipt for their records.
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This table shows the relative advantages and disadvantages of credit cards
when compared to debit cards:
Type of card Advantages Disadvantages
Credit ● There is customer protection if a company ● Can be charged high interest rate
stops trading or goods don’t arrive ● Annual fees often apply
● Internationally accepted method of payment ● Easy to end up with credit damage as sums
● Interest-free loan if money paid back mount up
within agreed time period ● Security risks when using credit card online (see
● Can buy items online Chapter 8)
Debit ● Money comes from customer’s current ● Less customer protection than credit cards if goods
account, therefore no interest charges don’t arrive or company goes out of business
● Safer than carrying cash ● No credit allowed; customers must have the funds
● Can buy items online available

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6 ICT applications

6.6.2 The cheque clearing process

Suppose someone uses a bank called Hodder Bank and they pay a cheque
for $50 to a company called H&S Co who bank with Smith Bank; the
following procedure explains how H&S Co are credited with $50:
● The first step is called out clearing. The cheque is fed into a reader
Tip
which takes a photograph of the cheque and built-in OCR software turns
the image into an electronic record. For more on OCR, refer
● Smith Bank now creates a digital record containing: money to be paid to Section 2.2.
in, sort code on the cheque and account number shown on the cheque.
● All transactions relating to Hodder Bank during the day are added to a
file (which includes the electronic record relating to this cheque) and
the file is sent to a central facility (other banks will have their own
separate files containing cheque transactions relating to their bank).
● The file containing cheques drawn on Hodder Bank is now processed,
a ‘request to pay’ message for each cheque is made and a stream of
‘request to pay’ images (for all cheques) are sent to Hodder Bank; if
the cheque hasn’t been signed or fraud is suspected, then a ‘no pay’
message is created for each affected cheque.
● The central facility routes all ‘request to pay’ and ‘no pay’ responses
to Smith Bank and the payment shown on each cheque is carried
out; essentially, at this stage H&S Co are debited with $50 from the
customer’s Hodder Bank account.

Sample question and response

Nicolae logs on to a travel agent’s website. He selects flights from
Bucharest to Cairo on his preferred date and time and pays for the flights.
Tips
Describe what data Nicolae will need to supply and explain how the
There are 8 marks
website will ensure Nicolae has a seat reserved on his flight. [8 marks]
allocated to this
question. This means
Sample high-level answer a fairly comprehensive
● The customer will supply the following information regarding the flight: description needs to
be given of the booking
– his full name, email address and contact phone number
process. If it is easier, the
– date of flight } these are often selected by choosing
two parts of the question
– time of flight } options from drop-down boxes could be combined
– departure and destination airport to produce a single
– number of seats required description.
– additional information (such as disabled passenger, dietary needs etc.),
● A seating display for the chosen flight will be shown on screen and the
customer will select his seats.
● A database is searched to see if the chosen seats are still available.
● If the seats are available, the total cost plus seat numbers will be displayed (if Teacher’s comments
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the seats are no longer available, the customer will be taken back to the home
The first student has given
screen and requested to make a new choice). a very strong answer. They
● If the customer is happy with the selection and price, he will confirm this. have split their answer
● The customer’s seats are now marked as ‘temporarily unavailable’ on the in accordance with the
database to prevent double-booking. original question. At least
● Payment details are then entered and the customer’s bank is contacted and eight points have been
the transaction takes place if there are no problems. made, together with a list
● The customer is now sent an email to confirm his flight together with cost of input requirements,
breakdown and any other required information. which means the student
● A QR code will be sent via email and this will act as his e-ticket. could gain the maximum
● The travel agency database will be updated and the customer’s seats for that possible mark for this
flight will now be permanently set to unavailable. question.

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6.6 Banking systems

Teacher’s comments
Sample low-level answer
The second student has not
The customer logs onto the travel agent’s website and chooses seats on a flight
really given much detail
from Bucharest to Cairo on the day required. The travel agent will check if there
regarding the booking
are seats available and informs the customer of the result. If seats are found, the
procedure nor have they
customer pays for the flight and is sent a confirmation by email. The customer is given a list of input
sent flight tickets as part of the confirmation email. requirements. There is
probably 1 mark for some
input details (day of flight
Exam-style questions for you to try and the destination/arrival
airports) and a second
4 A cinema manager has decided to introduce an online booking mark is probably given for
system to replace the current paper-based booking system. the confirmation email.
Give four advantages of using an online booking system to
replace a paper-based booking system. [4]
5 Robots are being used in the mining industry to find new deposits
of lithium ore.
a Give three advantages of using robots rather than humans when
searching for new ore deposits. [3]
b Give two disadvantages of using robots in this scenario rather
than humans. [2]
6 Describe five of the stages when clearing a bank cheque through
the central clearing facility. [5]
7 a A school uses smart cards (containing a magnetic strip and
embedded chip) as a method of determining which students are
on the premises at any given time. In the following table, tick (✓)
the appropriate boxes to show which statements about the use
of smart cards are true:

Statements True (✓)

Smart cards prevent students signing in for each other

It is possible to determine whether a student is on the

premises in case of a fire
It is possible to determine a student’s attendance
record over the whole year
It is not possible to clone smart identity cards, making
the system very secure and accurate
Data stored on a card is the name of the school, name
of the student, student’s date of birth and their unique
ID number
Using a PIN only works if the identity card is fitted with
an embedded microchip
 [3]
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b Students at a school are using computer aided learning (CAL) as

part of their studies. Indicate which of the following statements
about CAL are true by placing a tick (✓) next to the true
statements.

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6 ICT applications

Statements True (✓)

Students can learn at their own pace

Students must complete the whole session on a

particular topic before moving on to the next topic
CAL frees up teachers to do other things since it can
replace trained teachers in the classroom

CAL lessons can include multimedia and animations

It is not possible for CAL to be interactive since no

teachers are involved in the CAL process
CAL allows for micro-learning where topics are broken
down into manageable modules

 [3]

6.7 Computers in medicine

6.7.1 Information systems in medicine
Computers are used to keep patient records. Databases contain information
that can be shared between medical practitioners and pharmacies. They
allow electronic prescriptions to be sent out for patients with regular
monthly requirements, freeing up doctors’ time. Typical data stored on the
database could include:
● patient’s medical record, unique ID number, full name, date of birth,
address, email address and contact phone number
● gender and ethnicity
● current treatment and any current diagnoses together with important
analytics (such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans).
Use of 3D printers
3D printers are now used in many areas of medicine:
● Surgical and diagnostic aids:
● using CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans, it is
possible to build up a 3D image of internal organs
● these 3D images can be sent to a 3D printer and solid objects
printed out which precisely resemble the internal organs
● the doctor can show the patient exactly where the problem is using
the solid printouts; the physical object also allows more accurate
surgical planning by surgeons.
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● Prosthetics:
● 3D printers can now print out very accurate prosthetics (artificial
arms, hands and legs) much more quickly and at a fraction of the
cost of more traditional methods.
● Tissue engineering and artificial blood vessels:
● 3D printers now allow printing of bio-compatible materials, cells
and supporting structures
● using bio-inks, artificial cells and tissue can be printed out
● 3D printers have already been used to produce skin tissue, bone
tissue, heart/artery grafts and tracheal splints
● bio-printed tissues, such as artificial blood vessels, have also been
made using 3D printers and bio-inks.

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6.8 Expert systems

● Customised medicines:
● 3D printers can now allow customised medicines to be made (called
patient-centric medicine). printlets are PRINTed
tabLETS
● Sometimes referred to as printlets, 3D printing offers the
possibility of creating personalised medicine that allows
automatically controlled release of the medicine into the patient’s
body. Fixed-dose combinations can be created to allow optimum
release of each medicine and these medicines are tailor-made for
each patient.
● 3D printers used to generate patient-centric medicines use a
technology called vapour printing.
● This technique allows tablets to be made to a very specific
geometry. There is a connection between tablet geometry and
medicine release into the body, which is the whole basis behind the
use of 3D printers to make customised printlets.
● The advantages of customised medicines include:
- tailor-made medicines to suit the individual
- better control of medicine release into the body
- saves money (many modern medicines are very expensive)
- better targeting of the medicine so its effects can be optimised
- less chance of an overdose of the medicine – reducing harmful
side effects.

6.8 Expert systems

Expert systems have been developed to mimic the expertise and
knowledge of an expert in a particular field. Examples include:
● prospecting for oil and minerals
● diagnostics (finding faults in a car engine or on a circuit board etc.)
● medical diagnosis
● strategy games (e.g. chess)
● tax and financial planning
● route scheduling for delivery vehicles
● identification of plants, animals and chemical compounds.
The following table summarises the advantages and disadvantages of
expert systems:
Advantages of using expert systems Disadvantages of using expert systems
● They offer the highest level of ● Users of the expert system need
expertise and high accuracy considerable training in its use to
● The results are consistent ensure the system is being used
Can store vast amounts of ideas correctly
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●
and facts ● The set-up and maintenance costs
● Can make traceable logical are very high
solutions and diagnostics ● They tend to give very ‘cold’
● It is possible for an expert system responses, which may not be
to have multiple types of expertise appropriate in certain medical
● Very fast response time (much situations
quicker than a human expert) ● They are only as good as the
● Provide unbiased reporting and information/facts entered into the
analysis of the facts system
● They indicate the probability of any ● Users sometimes make the very
suggested solution being correct dangerous assumption that they are
infallible

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6 ICT applications

An expert system is made up of a number of components:

Explanation
system

User Inference Knowledge

interface engine base

Rules
base

Component Description
User interface ● This is how expert systems interact with a user
● Allows interaction through dialogue boxes and command prompts
● Questions are usually multi-choice or have ‘yes/no’ answers; questions asked are based on
the answers to previous questions
Explanation system ● This informs the user of the reasoning behind the expert system’s conclusions and
recommendations
● The expert system will supply a conclusion and any suggested action; it is important to give
the percentage probability of the accuracy of its conclusions
Inference engine ● The inference engine acts like a search engine examining the knowledge base for
information/data that matches the queries
● Gathers information/data from the user by asking a series of questions and applying responses
where necessary; each question asked is based on the responses to earlier questions
● This is the problem-solving part of the expert system that makes use of inference rules in
the rules base
● Because the knowledge base is a collection of objects and attributes, the inference engine
attempts to use information gathered from the user to find an object that matches
Knowledge base ● The knowledge base is a repository of facts and stores all the knowledge about an area of
expertise obtained from various sources
● It is a collection of objects (the actual item itself, such as the name of an animal) and attributes
(features of the object, such as it is a mammal with four legs and lives on the land etc.)
Rules base ● A set of inference rules that are used by the inference engine to draw conclusions (the
methods used closely follow human reasoning)
● Follow logical thinking involving a series of ‘IF’ statements (e.g. IF continent = ‘South
America’ AND language = ‘Portuguese’ THEN country = ‘Brazil’

An expert system needs to be carefully set up using the following

sequence:

Gather Populate Create and set

During testing, any information knowledge base up rules base
results that indicate
problems with the
expert system’s ability to be
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100% accurate, require

it to be changed and
each stage to be Develop the
Fully test the Create and set up
rechecked. human–computer
expert system inference engine
interface

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6.9 Computers in the retail industry

The following is a typical example of an expert system in a medical

diagnosis:
Input screen

• First of all an interactive screen is

presented to the user Expert system
• The system asks a series of questions
about the patient’s illness • The inference engine compares the
• The user answers the questions asked symptoms entered with those in the
(either as multiple-choice or yes/no knowledge base looking for matches
questions) • The rules base is used in the matching
• A series of questions are asked process
based on the user’s responses • Once a match is found, the system
to previous questions suggests the probability of the
patient’s illness being identified
accurately
• The expert system also suggests
Output screen possible solutions and remedies to
• The diagnosis can be in the form of cure the patient or recommendations
text or it may show images of the on what to do next
human anatomy to indicate where • The explanation system will give
the problem may be reasons for its diagnosis so that the
• The user can request further user can determine the validity of the
information from the expert system diagnosis or suggested treatment
to narrow down the possible illness
and its treatment

6.9 Computers in the retail industry

6.9.1 Retail industry
Point-of-sale terminals
Barcodes are used on many products in shops; these are read by a barcode
reader (which uses red laser or LED to read the barcode pattern of lines).
At supermarkets and other shops, POS terminals are used to read the
barcodes.
A barcode is a series of light and dark lines of varying thickness. A series
of numbers under the barcode is the numeric representation (allowing it to
be read by a human). This number also contains a check digit, which is a
form of validation to ensure the barcode was read correctly.
Barcodes are used as part of an automatic stock control system in shops:
● Each barcode is associated with a record in a stock file that contains
price of item, current stock level and product description (the barcode
is the primary key for the record).
● The barcode is read by a barcode reader and the record associated with
this barcode is searched for in the stock file.
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● Once the record is found, the information is sent back to the point-of-
sale (POS) terminal and the price is displayed on a screen together with
the product description.
● The stock level for the item is reduced by one which then triggers a
check to see whether the stock level has now reached the reorder level.
● If the reorder level has been reached, reordering of new items is done
automatically, and a flag is put on the item record to indicate a reorder
has been made.

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6 ICT applications

● When new items arrive, the stock level is updated and the reorder flag
is removed.
● Once all items have been scanned, the total bill is calculated and the
customer is given an itemised bill; payment for the basket of items is
done using smart card or by electronic devices (such as a near field
communication-enabled smartphone) – see below.
Electronic funds transfer at the point-of-sale terminal
When payment is made by card or electronic devices (such as a
smartphone) at a POS terminal, it is known as EFTPOS. Payment can be
made by:
● chip and PIN
● contactless card
● a near field communication device.
Chip and PIN card
How chip and PIN works was covered earlier, in Section 6.6.
The advantages and disadvantages of chip and PIN are shown below:

Advantages of chip and PIN Disadvantages of chip and PIN

● More secure system than magnetic stripe cards (PIN ● The risk of fraud when typing in the PIN – the
typed in must match up with PIN stored on chip) customer needs to be careful to ensure the PIN isn’t
● It’s a quicker system than magnetic stripe cards being read by somebody else while typing it in
and also allows for contactless payments to be ● Some countries still don’t accept chip and PIN cards
made (with magnetic stripe cards, the card reader
must first contact the customer’s bank before any
authorisation can take place)

Contactless cards
These were discussed in detail in Section 2.2, p.14, together with their
advantages and disadvantages.
Near field communication devices
The technology behind near field communication (NFC) can be found
later in Section 6.10. When using NFC payment at a POS terminal, the
following sequence of events takes place:
● The NFC-enabled electronic device (e.g. a smartphone) is held close to
the NFC reader (the terminal).
● When NFC (contactless) payment is initiated, the NFC terminal and
electronic payment device pass encrypted data between each other to
enable a secure payment to be made.
● When the NFC device is a smartphone, tokenisation is used to improve
security.
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Tokenisation and smartphones

Tokenisation is used when setting up a mobile wallet. The card details
(after a photo of the card is taken by the smartphone) are sent by the
smartphone wallet company to the bank that issued the card. The bank
replaces the card details with a series of randomly generated numbers,
called tokens, which they send back to the smartphone manufacturer
who then programs the random numbers into the user’s smartphone.
These random numbers are then used in all transactions involving the
smartphone. The numbers change for every transaction.

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6.9 Computers in the retail industry

6.9.2 Internet shopping and banking

Online shopping and internet banking allow a customer to carry out
banking and shopping using a home computing device.
There are many advantages and disadvantages to using online shopping
and banking, as shown in this table:
Advantages to online shopping and banking Disadvantages of online shopping and banking
● There is no longer a need to travel into town centres, ● There is the possibility of isolation and lack of
reducing costs (money for fuel, bus fares etc.) and wastage socialisation if people stay at home to do all
of time; it also helps to reduce town centre congestion and their shopping and banking
pollution ● There are possible health risks associated
● Users now have access to a worldwide market and can with online shopping or banking because
look for products that are cheaper. This is obviously less of lack of exercise; if people physically go
expensive and less time-consuming than having to shop shopping then they are getting some exercise
around by the more conventional methods; they will also ● Security issues are a major concern (e.g.
have access to a much wider choice of goods hacking, stealing credit card details, etc.) as
● Elderly people and people with disabilities can now access are viruses and other malware (e.g. phishing,
any shop or bank without the need to leave home, which is of pharming and so on)
great benefit to them ● Accidentally using fraudulent bank or
● Shopping and banking can be done at any time on any day of shopping websites is always a risk and this is
the week (i.e. 24/7); this is particularly helpful to people who linked to security issues
work during the day as the shops/banks would normally be ● It is necessary to have a computer and to
closed when they finished work pay for the internet to be able to do online
● People can spend more time doing other things – going shopping and banking
shopping at the supermarket probably took up a lot of time; ● Unlike high street shopping, it is only possible
by doing this online (e.g. setting up repeat items) people are to see a picture of the goods (which might
now free to do more leisure activities not portray the exact colour of a dress for
● Many people find it less embarrassing to ask for a bank instance), nor can you try something on to
loan using the internet rather than enduring a face-to-face see if it fits before buying it; you also have to
discussion with bank staff wait several days for the goods to arrive and
● There are often long queues at banks or checkouts at shops, returning goods is expensive
so internet banking saves time ● High street shops and banks are closing
● The shops and banks save money by not having as many staff because of the increase in online shopping and
working for them (reduced wage bill) or hiring high street banking and this is leading to ‘ghost towns’
premises (reduction in rental costs) – these savings are often forming
passed on to the customer in the form of lower interest rates, ● It is easier to make errors with online banking
cheaper goods or higher rates of interest for savers and transfer money to the wrong account

Effects on companies due to the spread of online shopping and

banking
As well as customers, companies and other organisations have also been
affected by the growth of information and communication technology
(ICT) and online shopping. Some of the effects are listed below:
● Companies can save costs since fewer staff need to be paid and it isn’t
necessary to have as many shops and banks in high streets to deal with
potential customers.
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● Because the internet is global, the potential customer base increases.

● There will be some increased costs because of the need to retrain staff
and the need to employ more staff in despatch departments.
● There are also costs due to the setting up and maintaining of websites
to enable online shopping and banking.
● Since there is very little or no customer–employee interaction, this
could lead to a drop in customer loyalty which could lead to loss of
customers (this could also be brought about by the lack of personal
service associated with online shopping and banking).
● Robberies are less likely due to having fewer high street banks.
● Banks also need to employ fewer security staff which has a cost benefit.

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6 ICT applications

6.10 Recognition systems

Recognition systems include: OMR, barcode readers, QR code readers,
OCR, RFIDS and biometric recognition systems. Most of these devices
were discussed in Section 2.2, page 14. The following section covers
applications that use these recognition systems.

6.10.1 Optical mark recognition to read multiple-choice

question papers
OMR can be used to automatically read forms marked in specific places,
for example: The area filled in by
OR pen or pencil is called a
lozenge
A template is created to map out X–Y coordinates of each lozenge or other
type of mark. The coordinates of the lozenges of the ‘correct answers’ are
stored on this template. The OMR sheet is then placed on a reader and the
position of each filled-in lozenge (or other marks) is read. The position of
the filled-in lozenges are compared to the corresponding coordinates of
the ‘correct answers’ on the template; if the coordinates match up, then
the answer is marked as correct.

Advantages of OMR devices Disadvantages of OMR devices

● It is a very fast way of inputting ● The forms need to be carefully designed to make sure the marks/
the results of a survey etc. – the shading are correctly positioned to gather accurate information
documents are fed in automatically ● There can be problems if they have not been filled in correctly and
and there is no user input sometimes have to be manually checked before being read – this is
● Since there is no typing, they are both time-consuming and expensive
more accurate than keying in the data ● Often only work with black pen or pencil
● They are more accurate than OCR ● They are limited to the questions on the paper; it isn’t possible to get
methods expansion to answers in a questionnaire, for example

6.10.2 Optical character recognition

OCR is another method used in recognition systems. It is used in
automated number plate recognition (see below) and in the cheque
clearing process (see Section 6.6.2). For more on OCR refer to Section 2.2.

6.10.3 Automated number plate recognition system

Automated number plate recognition (ANPR) is used to read number
plates on vehicles, for example in a car park controlling entry and exit.
The sequence of events could be:
● As the car approaches the car park entrance, a sensor detects the
presence of the car and sends this signal to a central computer, which
then instructs a camera to capture an image of the front of the car.
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● An algorithm is used to locate and isolate the number plate from the
image; the brightness/contrast of the number plate is then adjusted.
Each character on the number plate is segmented and using OCR
software converted into a string of electronic text.
● The electronic text is then stored on a database (together with the
date and time of entry) and the barrier to the car park is raised. The
driver is also issued with a ticket showing time of entry.
● When the motorist returns, they insert their ticket into a payment
machine and pay the amount due.

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6.10 Recognition systems

● The motorist then drives up to the exit barrier and the ANPR system
again reads the number plate on the car and checks the database for
the number plate and whether payment has been made.
● If everything is OK, the barrier is raised.
ANPR has a number of advantages and disadvantages:
Advantages of ANPR Disadvantages of ANPR
● Can be used to automatically monitor average speed of vehicles over a ● A lack of manned security car park
stretch of road; this can be used in smart traffic management systems surveillance could lead to vandalism
(see Section 6.2) (and other crimes) since nobody is
● No need to employ car park security guards, which saves money checking on a regular basis; CCTV
● Much faster system than having to check a ticket at the exit; car parks is often used, but not till ‘after the
can issue tickets on entry, but this ticket is simply used for payment event’
purposes by the motorist before leaving the car park and isn’t used at ● Invasion of privacy issues due to the
the exit since payment will now be linked to the number plate on the car recording of driver’s number plates
● Can be used to automatically control the entry and exit to a car park or ● Damaged or very dirty number
private roads plates won’t be recognised by the
● Can be used as a security system, preventing illegal parking and system
preventing unauthorised access to private car parks ● Number plate cloning; the ANPR
● Used to analyse driver behaviour (e.g. route choice and destinations) to system only recognises the number
help in transport planning plate and not the car, so it is
● Used in inner-city congestion charging systems; it is possible to possible for a car to be fitted with a
automatically charge a motorist if they enter a congestion zone, but cloned number plate thus bypassing
it also allows in permitted vehicles without charge (e.g. emergency car park security, for example
vehicles, buses and electric zero-emission vehicles)

6.10.4 Radio frequency identification devices

Radio frequency identification devices (RFIDs) were covered in Section
2.2. Here we will look at four uses of RFID:
● Tracking of stock:
● This can be the tracking of stock in a shop or livestock tracking on a
farm.
● RFID tags are made up of a microchip and antenna and can be passive
(uses energy from the RFID reader) or active (has its own power source).
● Livestock tracking is used to keep track of every animal on a farm
and it also allows the farmer to keep medical data about each
animal. Because of the distances involve, active tags would be used
in this application.
● Retail tracking could be used in the same way as a barcode in a
shop, but could also be used in distribution centres to locate items
being shipped to customers; RFID tags also allow a parcel to be
tracked by a customer so they can determine when it might arrive.
● Passports
● A microchip and antenna are now embedded into passports, using
passive tags.
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● When a passport is presented to an RFID scanner, a device reads

data on the passport chip (the data is encrypted).
● Data stored on the chip includes a photo, fingerprint scan and other
personal data.
● Use of RFID in vehicles
● Can allow or deny access to vehicles in a private car park.
● Lorries and vans can use RFID tags at weigh stations.
● Tags can be used on toll roads to automatically raise barriers.
● RFID tags can be used in car production to automatically track
progress through the assembly process.

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6 ICT applications

● Contactless credit/debit cards

● Also refer to Sections 6.6 and 2.1.
● Contactless cards use passive RFID tags which allow contactless
payment at a checkout.
Near field communication
● NFC is a subset of RFID technology.
● NFC can be used by smartphones to make payments and it can also be
used in car key fobs (when the driver approaches his vehicle, the NFC
device ‘talks’ to the car and the doors are automatically unlocked).
● There are three distinct modes of operation with NFC:

NFC

Peer-to-peer mode Read/write mode Card emulation mode

• Used by smartphones • One-way data transmission • NFC device can function as a

• Allows two NFC-enabled devices • A passive device links to another smart or contactless card
to exchange data device and reads data from it • Allows the card to make payments
• Both devices switch between • For example, when an active tag at an NFC-enabled terminal
being active (when sending data) is sending out advertising data to • For example, when entering a
and being passive (when receiving other devices in close proximity public transportation system
data) (e.g. as you pass a restaurant it (e.g. metro), the NFC-enabled
• For example, two smartphones advertises its menus automatically) card is read and allows access
sharing data, such as photos

Biometric recognition systems

Biometrics used as a recognition system includes:
● face recognition
● iris and retina recognition
● fingerprint and thumbprint recognition
● hand recognition
● voice recognition.
Face recognition, retina recognition, iris recognition, and finger and
thumb recognition systems will be covered in depth in Chapter 8. Hand
recognition (gesture control) and voice recognition systems were covered
in Chapter 1. For completeness, we will consider one additional example
here, iris recognition:
● A digital camera is utilised, which uses both visible and near infrared
light to take a sharp photograph of a person’s iris.
● The method produces a unique pattern of a person’s iris by locating and
taking an image of:
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● the centre of the pupil

● the edge of the pupil
● the edge of the iris
● the eyelids and eyelashes.
The system works with contact lenses and glasses and it even works with
people who are blind. It is used as a method for uniquely identifying a
person and, because of the speed of verification (less than five seconds),
is used a security system in the following areas:
● immigration control (in some countries)
● in the UK, the TSB Bank have introduced this in some branches as a
security feature.
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6.11 Satellite systems

6.11 Satellite systems

6.11.1 Satellites
Satellite systems include:
● GPS – sometimes called satnav
● geographic information systems
● media communication systems (satellite TV and mobile phone
networks).
Global positioning systems and satellite navigation
The Global Positioning System (GPS) is used to determine the exact
location of a car, ship or aeroplane. It is often referred to as satellite
navigation (satnav) when used in vehicles such as cars and lorries.
Satellites orbit the Earth and constantly transmit data, which includes
their position and exact time (using atomic clocks). A car’s GPS/satnav
reads signals from at least three satellites to determine the position of the
car on the Earth. In-built maps allow the position of the car in relation
to the map to be shown on a screen – the car can be seen to move on the
map so the driver can work out which road to use, or verbal instructions
can be given to the driver.
Some of the advantages and disadvantages of GPS are summarised below:
Advantages of GPS Disadvantages of GPS
● The driver does not have to consult paper maps, so it is far safer ● If the maps are not kept up to date, they
● It removes errors (can warn drivers about one-way streets, can give incorrect instructions
street closures etc.) ● Unless the system is sophisticated, road
● The system can warn the driver about the location of speed closures, due to accidents or roadworks,
cameras (again aiding safety) can cause problems
● The system can estimate the time of arrival ● Loss of satellite signals can cause
● It is also possible to program in the fastest route, routes to avoid problems
towns etc. ● If an incorrect start point or end point is
● The system can also give useful information such as location of keyed in, the system will give incorrect
petrol stations information

Geographic information systems

A geographic information system (GIS) is a system that allows a user
to map, model, query and analyse large amounts of data according to a
location. GIS allows the following:
● combining information into easily understood maps
● performing complex analytical calculations and then presenting the
results as a map, table or graphics
can be used by many groups, such as geographers, scientists and
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●
engineers, to see data in different ways.
Examples of GISs use include:
● emergency services to send the closest emergency personnel to a
location
● biologists and environmentalists to protect animal life and plants in
endangered areas
● carrying out crime mapping in regions
● management of agricultural crops

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6 ICT applications

● public health issues (used in 2020 to 2022 during the Covid-19

pandemic to show how the virus spread in certain regions, and the data
was combined, for example, with different age groups and population
density, to create a unique insight into its spread)
● mapping of wildfire outbreaks (used in 2019 in Australia to map the
spread of fires, and combined the maps with wind speed, wind direction
and so on).
Advantages of GIS Disadvantages of GIS
● Allows the exploring of both geographical and thematic ● The learning curve on GIS software can be very
data in a way which shows them how interconnected they long
are ● GIS software is very expensive
● Allows the handling and exploration of huge amounts of ● GIS requires enormous amounts of data to be
data (massive number crunching) input (thus increasing the chances of errors)
● Allows data to be integrated from a wide range of very ● It is difficult to make GIS programs which are both
different sources (which appear at first to be totally fast and user-friendly; GIS requires very complex
unconnected) command language interfaces to work properly

Media communication systems

Satellites allow communication around the globe. Signals (converted to
analogue if necessary) are beamed from a satellite dish on the ground to a
satellite orbiting the Earth. Once data reaches the satellite, it is boosted
(and usually the frequency is also changed) and then sent back to the
Earth and is picked up by satellite dishes. This allows signals to be sent
around the whole globe using a network of satellites as seen here:

Advantages of communication Disadvantages of communication

satellites satellites
● Good global coverage (covers the ● There is a time delay in receipt of the
majority of the Earth’s surface) signals (can be a problem in voice
● Much cheaper (and faster) than communications where even 0.5
laying cables around the world seconds delay can be noticeable as
● Has a very high bandwidth the sound and video appear out of
● Relatively easy to expand the synchronisation) or there may appear
network (there are numerous to be an ‘echo’ on the sound
companies now manufacturing ● The signals received can be affected
satellites for various uses) by bad weather (e.g. heavy rain or
● Security in satellite transmission hailstones), obstructions (such as
is very good because the data is tree branches) and whether the
coded and the receiver requires satellite dish has been correctly
decoding equipment to read the orientated
data ● Sunspot activity can affect the
● During emergency situations, it performance of a satellite
is relatively easy to move stations ● Satellites need to be monitored and
on the ground from one place to controlled on a regular basis to
another; satellites can also change ensure they remain in the correct
their orbits if necessary using the orbit
built-in boosters
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Sample question and response

Explain how an expert system could be used in the search for new mineral
deposits. [6 marks]

Tips
You are asked to explain, so it is necessary to include notes on how an
expert system would be used, what results you would expect and how
the results would be used. Do not give generic responses; your answer
should refer back to the scenario given in the question.

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6.11 Satellite systems

Sample high-level answer

An interactive user screen will appear and questions about the geological profile
would be asked. The user would answer these questions by typing in known
geological data; the next questions from the system would take responses
from previous questions into consideration. The inference engine searches the
knowledge base and uses the inference rules found in the rules base to look for
matches from previous geological studies. The expert system would use logic
and knowledge of geological data to suggest a probability of what minerals would
be expected to be found based on the data input. An explanation system would
inform the users of how the expert system arrived at its conclusions and the
percentage accuracy of its results. Finally maps would be output showing mineral
densities in the area under study; these would be on screen and also printed out.

Sample low-level answer

A user types in the results of rock samples and the system will look for rock
sample data in its knowledge base. It will look for rocks already found and see if
there are any matches. If there are any matches in the knowledge base, then the
user would be told how good the chances would be of finding minerals in the region.
The results would be shown on screen.

Teacher’s comments
The first answer is fairly comprehensive and is probably worth between 4
and 6 marks depending on how much detail is expected. The answer given
does cover all three parts of the question and also refers to the scenario.
It might have been a good idea to include a diagram of an expert system
which could be referred to throughout the description.
The second answer shows little real understanding of expert systems. But
they would gain 1 mark for the comments about input data and the idea of
matching up with data on the knowledge base. Probably 2 marks would be
a reasonable estimate here.

Exam-style questions for you to try

8 The managers of a company are concerned about illegal parking in
their car park. Drivers are parking their cars in the private car park
and then walking to the local sports match. There have been a few
instances of damage to employees’ cars. A decision has been made
to install a number plate recognition system and barrier so they
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can control cars entering and leaving the car park. Anyone visiting
the company will need to register their car’s number plate with the
receptionist prior to their visit.
a Explain how this system could check that a car approaching the
barrier had been registered with the receptionist beforehand. [4]
b After a visitor parks their car, they have to report to the
receptionist. They are then given a badge which contains an
RFID tag. The chip in this tag is read to allow the visitor access
to certain floors in the building. Prior to this electronic system,
badges contained a barcode. Discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of using RFID chips rather than barcodes on
visitors’ badges. [6]

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6 ICT applications

c The company would like to offer visitors access to their facilities

such as the restaurant, coffee shop and gift shop. Before arriving at
the company, visitors are sent a QR code which they can download to
their smartphone.
Describe how the visitor could use this QR code to find out more
about the company. [3]
9 Use words or phrases from the following list to complete the
paragraph below. The words or phrases may be used once, more
than once or not at all.

l binary numbers l face ID l tokenisation

l biometric data l randomly generated l tokens
l built-in camera l random numbers l touch ID
l change l remains the same l transaction
l debit card l smartphone l wallet

…………………… is used when setting up a smartphone …………………….

The details from the debit card are photographed using the
smartphone ……………………. The image is changed to electronic data
and sent by the smartphone…………………… company to the bank that
issued the debit card.
The bank replaces the …………………… details by a series of
…………………… numbers, called ……………………, which they send
back to the…………………… manufacturer who then program these
…………………… into the user’s smartphone. Every time a ……………………
now takes place, these tokens …………………… to improve security. [6]
10 a Eight statements about expert systems are made in the following
table, but only some of the statements are correct. Put a tick (✓)
next to the statements you think are correct.

Statements Correct (✓)

They contain a knowledge base made up of

attributes and objects
They are part of the 3D printing process
They refer to inference rules in a rules base
They make use of near field communication
technology
Each question asked is based on the
response to a previous question
They can be used in tax and financial
planning
They make use of a tokenisation system
They are examples of a search engine
 [4]
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b Describe briefly how an expert system could be set up to identify

any species of plant. [3]
c Describe how an expert system could be used to diagnose a fault
in a television set. [3]
11 a Explain what is meant by near field communication. [2]
b Explain the three distinct modes of operation used by NFC
devices. [3]

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6.11 Satellite systems

12 Six statements are shown on the left and 12 computer terms are
shown on the right. By drawing arrows, connect each description to
the correct computer term.

1. A system used to read multiple-choice A. Rules base

question papers by recognising the
position of filled-in lozenges
B. Geographic
information system

2. Debit card details are sent by a mobile

wallet company to the bank issuing the C. Radio frequency
debit card; the card details are replaced identification
by random numbers that are then used
when the smartphone is used to make
transactions D. Near field
communication

3. A subset of RFID in which devices E. Tokens

have to be in close proximity to each
other to receive and send signals
F. Optical mark
recognition

4. A computer system used to determine

the exact location of a vehicle using a G. Inference engine
number of satellites surrounding the
Earth; each satellite transmits its position
and the exact time
H. Knowledge base

5. A type of database that uses objects I. Simulation

and attributes to store information that
can be accessed by other parts of an
expert system J. Global positioning
system

6. A computer system that combines K. Tokenisation

maps with data; they are very complex
systems used by emergency services
and to monitor, for example, the spread L. Optical character
of a disease throughout a country recognition
 [6]
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