Question 1: Define the term 'automation' in the context of business operations.

Answer: Automation refers to the use of technology and machinery to perform tasks with minimal human intervention, increasing efficiency and reducing errors.

Question 2: Give one advantage and one disadvantage of using automated machinery in a manufacturing process.

Answer: Advantage: Increased production speed and consistency. Disadvantage: High initial investment costs and potential job losses.

Question 3: Explain how the introduction of new technology can improve customer service in a retail business.

Answer: New technology, such as self-service checkouts or online shopping platforms, can make purchasing faster and more convenient for customers, enhancing their experience.

Question 4: Describe one example of how a small business might use technology to manage its inventory.

Answer: A small business might use inventory management software to track stock levels automatically and reorder products when stock runs low.

Question 5: Compare traditional manual processing of orders with electronic order processing.

Answer: Manual processing involves paper-based or verbal orders, which are slower and prone to errors. Electronic processing uses computers or online systems, making orders faster, more accurate, and easier to track.

Question 6: Sketch a simple diagram of a computer network that links a business's main office to its warehouse and retail outlets. Label the main components.

Answer: A diagram showing a central server or main office connected via lines to a warehouse and multiple retail outlets. Labels include 'Main Office,' 'Warehouse,' 'Retail Outlet 1,' 'Retail Outlet 2,' and 'Network Connection.'

Question 7: Identify and explain two potential risks associated with implementing new technology in a business.

Answer: Risk 1: Cybersecurity threats, which could lead to data breaches. Risk 2: High costs of implementation, which might not be recovered if technology becomes obsolete or fails to deliver expected benefits.

Question 8: Draw a flowchart showing the process of manufacturing a product using automated technology from start to finish.

Answer: A flowchart with steps: Raw Material Supply → Automated Processing → Quality Control → Packaging → Distribution. Use arrows to connect each step sequentially.

Question 9: Explain how technological innovation can give a business a competitive advantage.

Answer: Technological innovation can enable a business to produce higher quality products more efficiently, reduce costs, and offer better customer service, all of which can make it more competitive in the market.

Question 10: Discuss the impact of e-commerce technology on traditional retail stores.

Answer: E-commerce allows customers to shop online at any time, expanding market reach for retailers. It can reduce the need for physical stores, potentially lowering costs. However, it also increases competition and requires investment in digital infrastructure.