Q.2.1

Question

Q.2.1.1 Distinguish between RAM and ROM. (2)
Q.2.1.2 Provide two reasons why RAM is referred to as volatile memory. (4)
Q.2.2 ABC bank needs your advice. It currently has 50 PCs being used by its tellers and
customers, and management is debating whether to use Google Apps for Work or
Office 365 as its productivity tools.
Q.2.2.1 Distinguish between Office 365 and Google Apps using any two
distinguishing factors.
(4)
Q.2.2.2 Identify any two advantages of each:
• Office 365
• Google Apps.
(4)
Q.2.2.3 Suggest with reason to which of the two productivity tools is the most
viable choice for ABC bank based on cost.

Answer 1

Q.2.1.1 - RAM stands for Random Access Memory and ROM stands for Read-Only Memory. The main difference between the two is that RAM is a volatile memory, meaning that its content is lost when power is turned off or lost, while ROM is non-volatile memory, meaning that its content is retained even when power is turned off or lost.

Q.2.1.2 - Two reasons why RAM is referred to as volatile memory are:
1. RAM needs continuous power supply to maintain the stored data. Once the power is lost, the data is lost as well, which is why it is considered volatile.
2. RAM is designed to be a temporary working memory for the computer, used to store data that is being actively used by the CPU. Once the computer shuts down, the data in RAM is no longer required and is cleared, making it volatile.

Q.2.2.1 - Two distinguishing factors between Office 365 and Google Apps are:
1. Ownership and Pricing: Office 365 is owned by Microsoft and is a paid subscription service, while Google Apps is owned by Google and offers both free and paid versions.
2. Integration with Existing Infrastructure: Office 365 is generally preferred by businesses already using Microsoft products as it integrates seamlessly with other Microsoft software such as Outlook, SharePoint, and Microsoft Teams. Google Apps is known for its cloud-based collaboration and has integration with Google services like Gmail, Google Drive, and Google Calendar.

Q.2.2.2 - Two advantages of Office 365 are:
1. Familiarity and Compatibility: Office 365 offers a range of widely used and familiar tools like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, making it easy for users to adapt. It also ensures compatibility with other Microsoft software and formats.
2. Extensive Features: Office 365 offers a wide range of advanced features and capabilities, such as email management, document collaboration, video conferencing, and file storage, providing a comprehensive productivity solution.

Two advantages of Google Apps are:
1. Cloud-based Collaboration: Google Apps allows real-time collaboration on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, enabling multiple users to work simultaneously on the same file from different locations, enhancing productivity and teamwork.
2. Cost-effectiveness: Google Apps offers a free version with limited features, making it suitable for small businesses or individuals with a tight budget. The paid version, Google Apps for Work, also provides additional features at a relatively lower cost compared to Office 365.

Q.2.2.3 - Based on cost, Google Apps may be the most viable choice for ABC bank. Google Apps offers a free version that can cater to the needs of small businesses or organizations with a limited budget. The paid version, Google Apps for Work, provides additional features at a lower cost compared to Office 365 subscriptions. This cost-effectiveness can be advantageous for ABC bank to meet its productivity needs while minimizing expenses.