The Evolution of Work in the Information Age

A young professional named Nandi is navigating the quickly evolving Information Age workplace in the vibrant metropolis of Johannesburg. Equipped with an information technology background, she is eager to remain relevant in a labour market that has experienced substantial changes.

One day, Nandi goes to a workshop where they discuss information systems and computer technology, namely the Decision Support Systems $($DSS$).$ When Nandi hears about the Central Processing Unit $($CPU$)$ and its essential components in the first workshop section on computer hardware, her interest is piqued. The instructor elucidates on the Arithmetic Logic Unit $($ALU$)$ and explains how the CPU performs all arithmetic and logic operations through it$.$

Nandi is intrigued, so she pays close attention as the instructor moves on to discuss the Control Unit and how it manages the computer's memory to carry out orders. The Control Unit makes sure that instructions run smoothly by loading the subsequent one automatically when the current one is finished.

Additional talks clarified the nature of cache memory, including how quickly data can be accessed and how important it is for storing intermediate results needed for effective logic and arithmetic processing. Nandi discovers that by lowering access latency, cache memory greatly improves CPU speed.

In the second part of the workshop, the DSS system is extensively touched on and this is where Nandi learns about the crucial role these systems play in aiding decision$-$making

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processes within companies. Nandi considers the evolution of white$-$collar work, which is typically linked with office jobs, as she digs more into the topic. The employment market has shifted as a result of the incorporation of automated processes and the reliance on computers, which have also altered the nature of work.

Nandi is well aware of the difficulties South Africa, is facing due to its expanding population and contracting economy. The GDP has been damaged by job losses due to causes like economic shrinkage, competition from lower$-$priced imports, and increased automation. Nandi sees a chance for people to improve their employability through lifelong learning despite these obstacles, particularly in the field of information technology.

Driven by the understanding that data and information are distinct concepts, Nandi is determined to contribute to her organisation's success by leveraging information systems effectively. She acknowledges the importance of efficient data input, processing, storage, and information output in achieving organisational goals.

Required:

$3\mathrm{.}1$

How does Nandi plan to stay relevant in the rapidly changing job market? $(2$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}2$

In what ways has automation affected the job market, as mentioned in the scenario? $(3$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}3$

How does Nandi perceive the relationship between information systems and organisational success? $(3$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}4$

Considering the challenges faced by South Africa, what opportunities does Nandi see for individuals to enhance their employability? $(2$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}5$

Why is it beneficial for Nandi to attend the workshop on Decision Support Systems $($DSS$),$ and what role do DSS play in organisations? $(3$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}6$

Nandi is working on a project that involves complex calculations. How does the Arithmetic Logic Unit $($ALU$)$ in the CPU contribute to your computer's ability to handle these mathematical tasks? $(2$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}7$

Think about when you're multitasking on your computer, like switching between a document and a web browser. How does the Control Unit ensure that your computer smoothly transitions from one task to another? $(2$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}8$

Imagine you're editing a video or playing a high$-$end game on your computer. How does Cache memory step in to make sure the video edits or game graphics load quickly and smoothly? $(2$ Marks$)$

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$3\mathrm{.}9$

Suppose you're adding a new device to your computer, like a printer or a camera, using a USB port. How does the bus on the motherboard help in the communication between your CPU and the new device? $(2$ Marks$)$

$3\mathrm{.}10$

Reflect on when you save your work$/$college project. How do both types of memory, primary and secondary$,$ ensure that your project is safe and accessible, even if the computer is turned off? $(3$