BCS Unit 4

1. BCS Unit 4 Constraints and influences on a system

2. Learning objectives • To understand how the efficient operation of a system can be affected by the range and quality of equipment available to the business.

3. Areas to consider • Cost of installation • Maintenance • Upgrades • Replacements • Profitability

4. Cost of installation • Computer equipment is expensive to buy. • Computer equipment is often out of date as soon as you purchase it, due to the fast pace of technology. • Companies spend a lot of time and energy when buying equipment to make sure they make the right choice. • Computers have a high rate of depreciation.

5. Maintenance • Computers should never stand idle, if they are not working they are losing money. • Technicians are employed to ensure computers are functioning properly. • Technicians manage problems with software and hardware.

6. Upgrades • To keep a pace with technology, computers need upgrading. • If companies fail to do so they will become uncompetitive and lose money. • Companies should upgrade and replace equipment on a regular basis. • New equipment tends to be smaller and have greater memory facilities.

7. Replacements • Many machines are replaced after they reach a certain age. • It is often cheaper to replace equipment than fix it. • Some companies even sell old computers to recoup some money.

8. Profitability • Businesses aim to make a profit. • Good working equipment helps them to achieve this aim. • If equipment is not working then money will be lost.