Compression software is a type of utility software. A student compresses a large video file before emailing it.
Give two benefits of compressing the video file.
Mark scheme
Award one mark for any of the following up to a maximum of two marks:
- Reduces the file size / uses less storage space (1)
- Takes less time to upload/download/send (1)
- Uses less bandwidth / reduces the amount of data transferred (1)
- The file is more likely to fit within an email attachment size limit (1)
- Reduces the amount of storage needed for backups / more files can be stored on backup media (1)
Do not award both 'reduces the file size' and 'uses less storage space' as two separate benefits.
Do not award both 'takes less time to send' and 'uses less bandwidth' as two separate benefits.
Do not accept 'it is compressed' on its own.
Do not accept 'it makes the file easier to send' unless a benefit such as a smaller file or less time is given.
Do not accept 'better quality'.
Example answers and how they were marked
It uses less storage space and it will upload more quickly.
Why: Uses less storage space (1) and takes less time to upload (1).
It reduces the size of the file.
Why: Reduces file size (1); no second distinct benefit.
The video will have better quality.
Why: Better quality is not a benefit of compression; no mark.