Technology in Operations

Question 1

Computer-aided Design (CAD)

Answer 1

CADis when a computer system is used to create or modify a design.
CAD can be used to simulate a design in a 3D environment allowing the designer to have an idea of how the finished product will look.
This will lead to more accurate design processes, meaning less wastage. Amendments can be made to designs without having to redo drawings or rebuild prototypes. This saves the developers time.

Question 2

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
(technology in manufacturing)

Answer 2

Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) uses machines that are controlled by computers in the manufacturing process.
This reduces the risk of human error and ensures consistency across all products produced.
It allows the business to save on labour costs and operate 24/7.
CAM systems can be expensive and production is reliant on the technology not breaking down.

Question 3

Robotics
(technology in manufacturing)

Answer 3

Robots can be used in the production process to reduce labour costs and carry out repetitive work.
Robots are often used in conditions where employees would not be allowed to work for health and safety reasons, such as a nuclear plant.
Robots reduce the need for supervision and can reduce wage costs.

Question 4

Electronic point of sale (EPOS)
(tech in operations and sales)

Answer 4

EPOS systems are computer systems that are used by retailers to allow the customer to pay for goods.
EPOS can be used to aid stock control as an up-to-date record of stock can be kept electronically and altered with every sale.
EPOS can also be used with electronic stock control systems to automatically reorder stock.

Question 5

Bar codes and QR codes
(tech in operations and sales)

Answer 5

Bar codes and QR codes can be used to aid the delivery process.
Customers and businesses can use QR codes to track packages.
Bar codes can be used to aid stock control as part of an EPOS system.

Question 6

Databases
(tech in operations and sales)

Answer 6

Databases store information on stock, which can then be easily searched using queries.
Reports can be generated automatically to help aid in the decision-making process.
Database systems can be linked to
EPOS to allow for the automatic reordering of stock.

Question 7

Email
(tech in operations and sales)

Answer 7

Email can be used by the operations department to contact suppliers and place orders.

Question 8

Internet
(tech in operations and sales)

Answer 8

The Internet can be used by the operations department to find suppliers and compare prices.