ELEMENT S 

PERFORMANCE CRITERIA 

Elements describe the essential outcomes.

Performance criteria describe the performance needed to demonstrate achievement of the element.

1 

Analyse requirements for improved computer applications 

1.1

Current aspects of business operations requiring improved computer technology are identified

1.2

Purpose and requirements of improved computer management systems are identified

1.3

Personnel are consulted for expert advice for potential matches of computer applications to required site operation improvements

2 

Evaluate software 

2.1

Potential software programs are evaluated to meet workplace requirements

2.2

Software applications are investigated for effectiveness to own operation including degree of flexibility, customisation and integration potential

2.3

Selected option is circulated to appropriate personnel for verification

2.4

Level of technical support is assessed

2.5

Software application selection is made

3 

Investigate hardware enhancements 

3.1

Hardware systems are evaluated for compatibility with selected software and workplace operations

3.2

Potential immediate and long-term risks/problems with hardware are identified and assessed

3.3

Recommendations are drafted and circulated for comment

3.4

Final recommendations on suitable hardware are made

4 

Implement system improvement 

4.1

Selected hardware and software enhancements are implemented

4.2

Training is provided to potential users of the technology

4.3

Implementation of hardware and software is monitored

5 

Measure systemic improvement 

5.1

Methods of measuring system performance are identified

5.2

Software and hardware performance is evaluated

5.3

System refinements or improvements are determined and implemented

5.4

System performance is documented and reported to appropriate personnel

Range is restricted to essential operating conditions and any other variables essential to the work environment.

Non-essential conditions can be found in the Companion Volume Implementation Guide.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria on at least one occasion and include:

• applying relevant legislation and workplace procedures
• communicating effectively with others when evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements
• completing documentation related to evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements
• interpreting and following operational instructions and prioritising work
• measuring operational performance improvements resulting from changes to computer technology
• modifying activities to cater for variations in workplace contexts and environment
• monitoring work activities in terms of planned schedule
• operating and adapting to differences in equipment in accordance with standard operating procedures
• operating electronic communications equipment to required protocol
• planning and organising activities
• providing leadership and working collaboratively with others when evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements
• reading and interpreting instructions, procedures, specifications, technical data and manuals relevant to evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements
• selecting and applying appropriate software, technology, information systems and procedures
• working systematically with required attention to detail without injury to self or others, or damage to goods or equipment.

Evidence required to demonstrate competence in this unit must be relevant to and satisfy all of the requirements of the elements and performance criteria and include knowledge of:

• application of relevant Australian standards
• application of current competencies within functional activity
• computer equipment and software applications, capacities and configurations
• focus of operation of computing systems, software and hardware resources, management and workplace operating systems
• problems that may occur when evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements and action that can be taken to resolve or report these problems
• relevant regulations, codes of practice and legislative requirements for evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements
• relevant workplace documentation procedures
• resource availability including the competencies of individuals in the team or group
• risks and hazards related to evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements, and ways of controlling the risks involved
• workplace procedures for evaluating software requirements and hardware enhancements.