Information Technology and Business Communication
Information Technology and Business Communication tests business software, spreadsheets, databases, networks, e-commerce, IT controls, cybersecurity, and professional written and oral communication.
Core rules
- Use relative references for copied formulas and absolute references ($A$1) for fixed inputs.
- A relational database uses primary keys to identify records and foreign keys to link tables.
- IT controls include access controls, backup, segregation of duties and audit trails.
- Effective business writing is clear, concise, correct, complete and audience-centred.
- Choose the channel by urgency, complexity and need for a record: email for routine records, a meeting for complex discussion, a memo for internal policy.
Worked example
A spreadsheet has sales in B2:B10. A 5% commission is paid only when sales are at least 50,000. The formula =IF(B2>=50000,B2*5%,0) in C2, copied down, applies the rule. If B2 is 60,000, C2 returns 3,000; if B2 is 40,000, C2 returns 0. Use $ for a fixed rate cell if the rate is stored separately.
Traps
Do not use hard-coded numbers where a cell reference is better. Do not click links in unsolicited emails; verify the sender to avoid phishing. Avoid copying all recipients on an email when only some need to act. Do not bury the main message in a long introduction.