B1: Some people feel that controls in small businesses (typically owner operated with less than 20 employees) are dysfunctional, in that they create resentment and loss of morale without producing much benefit. Employees generally feel that the owner lacks trust in them, the control activities impose additional work, and/or that control procedures result in inconvenient and inefficient work practices. Control procedures implemented in small businesses are generally ineffective and only belong (and only effective) in large organisations where management is separated from the operational activities of the organisation.

REQUIRED: Do you feel this is a valid statement in respect to the implementation of controls in small businesses? Briefly support your position with reasons. If you feel that you agree with some parts of the statement but not others, briefly discuss the parts you agree and disagree with and provide reasons for your position. Without limiting your discussion, you should include an explanation of what is meant by a system of internal control, the objectives of a system of internal control, the limitations of a system of internal control, and relate these issues to the question asked.

B2: Discuss several factors affecting (negatively or positively) the achievement of systems development objectives.

B3: What do you perceive to be the advantages and disadvantages of conducting business on the Internet? Explain your answer in detail.