Software applications play a vital role in business. They add value by increasing efficiency and they can reduce the amount of time tasks take and improve record keeping. They can also enhance the ways in which businesses communicate with their stakeholders. In this unit, students learn about relevant functions in software applications and develop their skills in using them in business contexts. When using software applications, students should be aware of standard ways of working and best practice approaches. Pre-release data files will be available on our website before the examination. These will be in formats compatible with Microsoft Office (version 10 and above, and Microsoft Office 365). If centres are not using this software, they should ensure that they convert the files into the appropriate format. Centres should seek guidance from us on this process. 

Assessment: External computer-based examination (2 hours) Students complete tasks using a range of software applications.

Weighting:40%

In this unit, students gain a broad introduction to the business world. They learn about recruitment, selection, training and marketing, as well as the implications of digital technology for business. Students consider different roles, including stakeholders and customers, as well as how best to communicate a message. They look at all these factors in the context of the changing nature of business today. 

Assessment: External written examination (1 hour) Structured questions 

Weighting:35%

In this unit, students use the skills they have developed in Units 1 and 2 to plan and develop a digital solution for a business. This unit is synoptic; it tests students’ understanding of the connections between the different elements of the subject 

Assessment: Controlled assessment Students project manage and develop a digital solution for a given problem within a business context. Teachers mark the tasks, and the results are moderated. 

Weighting: 25%

There are three assessment objectives for this specification. Candidates must: 

AO1 recall, select and communicate their knowledge and understanding of concepts, issues and terminology; 

AO2 apply skills, knowledge and understanding in a variety of contexts and in planning and carrying out investigations and tasks; and 

AO3 analyse and evaluate products, make reasoned judgements and present appropriate conclusions.