Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 – Application Development
SharePoint 2007 application development covers managing enterprise content, creating business intelligence solutions, and integrating business data. Learners customise functionality using profiles and search services.
Assessment criteria
Topic Overview
The City & Guilds Level 2 Diploma in ICT Systems and Principles for IT Professionals is a comprehensive vocational qualification designed to equip students with the fundamental knowledge and practical skills required for a career in IT. This diploma covers a broad range of topics including computer hardware, software, networking, database systems, and cybersecurity. It is structured to provide a solid foundation in ICT principles, enabling students to understand how computer systems operate, how to maintain them, and how to support users effectively. The qualification is recognised by employers and further education institutions, making it a valuable stepping stone for roles such as IT support technician, network administrator, or progression to advanced level study.
The diploma is divided into several mandatory and optional units, each focusing on a specific area of ICT. Core units typically include 'Principles of ICT', 'Computer Hardware and Software', 'Networking Principles', and 'Database Systems'. Students learn through a mix of theoretical study and hands-on practical tasks, such as building a computer from components, setting up a small network, or creating a relational database. This blend ensures that learners not only understand the concepts but can apply them in real-world scenarios. The qualification also emphasises professional skills like problem-solving, communication, and teamwork, which are essential in the IT industry.
Mastering this diploma is crucial for anyone aiming to enter the IT profession. It provides a clear pathway to higher-level qualifications, such as the Level 3 Diploma in ICT, and can lead to industry certifications like CompTIA A+ or Network+. The content is aligned with current industry practices, ensuring that students are job-ready upon completion. By studying this diploma, students gain a competitive edge in the job market and a deep appreciation of how ICT systems underpin modern business and society.
Key Concepts
Core ideas you must understand for this topic
- →Computer hardware components: Understand the function of CPU, RAM, storage devices (HDD, SSD), motherboard, power supply, and input/output devices. Know how these components interact to process data.
- →Software types and operating systems: Distinguish between system software (e.g., Windows, Linux) and application software. Understand the role of an OS in managing hardware and providing a user interface.
- →Networking fundamentals: Learn about network topologies (star, bus, ring), protocols (TCP/IP, HTTP, FTP), IP addressing, and the OSI model. Know how devices like routers, switches, and hubs facilitate communication.
- →Database concepts: Grasp the purpose of databases, tables, records, fields, primary keys, and foreign keys. Be able to write basic SQL queries (SELECT, INSERT, UPDATE, DELETE) and understand normalisation.
- →Cybersecurity principles: Recognise common threats (malware, phishing, social engineering) and protective measures (firewalls, encryption, antivirus, access controls). Understand the importance of data backup and recovery.
Learning Objectives
What you need to know and understand
- Manage Enterprise Content, Audit Windows SharePoint Services content by using a custom policy, Create Business Intelligence Solutions by Using Office SharePoint Server 2007, Integrate Business Data with Office SharePoint Server 2007 by Using the Business Data Catalog (BDC), Access Office SharePoint Server 2007 Application Platform Services, Search Data by Using the Search Service, Target Content Based on Audience Membership, Customize Functionality by Using Profiles
Assessment Criteria
Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio
- Manage enterprise content using document libraries and lists.
- Create business intelligence solutions with Excel Services and dashboards.
- Integrate business data using the Business Data Catalog.
- Customise functionality using web parts and audience targeting.
Assessment Guidance
Guidance for achieving higher grades
- 💡Familiarise yourself with SharePoint 2007 architecture.
- 💡Practice creating and configuring web parts.
- 💡Understand the role of the Business Data Catalog.
- 💡When answering questions about hardware, always use specific technical terms (e.g., 'dual-core processor' instead of 'fast chip') and explain the function clearly. For example, 'The CPU executes instructions by fetching, decoding, and executing cycles.'
- 💡For networking questions, draw diagrams if possible to illustrate topologies or data flow. Label all components and explain how data travels from source to destination. This shows deeper understanding and can earn you marks for clarity.
- 💡In database questions, practice writing SQL queries with correct syntax. Pay attention to keywords like SELECT, FROM, WHERE, and use semicolons to terminate statements. Also, understand the difference between DDL (CREATE, ALTER) and DML (INSERT, UPDATE) commands.
Common Mistakes
Common errors to avoid in your coursework
- Confusing SharePoint features with Windows SharePoint Services.
- Overlooking security permissions when setting up content.
- Failing to test custom solutions before deployment.
- Misconception: 'RAM is the same as storage.' Correction: RAM (Random Access Memory) is volatile memory used for temporary data while the computer is running; it loses data when power is off. Storage (HDD/SSD) is non-volatile and retains data permanently. They serve different purposes.
- Misconception: 'The internet and the World Wide Web are the same thing.' Correction: The internet is a global network of interconnected computers, while the World Wide Web is a service that runs on the internet, using HTTP to access web pages. The internet also supports email, FTP, and other services.
- Misconception: 'A firewall is enough to protect a network.' Correction: While firewalls are essential, they are just one layer of security. A comprehensive approach includes antivirus software, regular updates, strong passwords, user training, and intrusion detection systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions students ask about this topic
Pass / Merit / Distinction Evidence Checklist
How your portfolio evidence is graded for CITY & GUILDS LIMITED Microsoft Office SharePoint Server 2007 – Application Development
Every vocational unit is marked against named criteria rather than an exam percentage. Your tutor's brief lists the exact codes for this unit — here is what each band is asking you to do.
Demonstrate baseline knowledge, accurate terminology, and core practical application.
Provide detailed analysis, structured explanations, and clear workplace reasoning.
Deliver thorough evaluation, original problem solving, and fully justified recommendations.
Before You Start
Prior knowledge that will help with this topic
- •Basic numeracy and literacy skills: You should be comfortable with simple arithmetic and able to read and write clearly, as the course involves technical documentation and calculations (e.g., binary, data sizes).
- •Familiarity with using a computer: Basic skills like file management, using an operating system, and browsing the internet are assumed. If you lack these, consider a short introductory course first.
- •Understanding of simple electrical concepts: Knowledge of voltage, current, and safety (e.g., ESD precautions) is helpful when handling computer hardware, though it is taught within the course.
Coursework AI Review
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Key Terminology
Essential terms to know
- Manage Enterprise Content, Audit Windows SharePoint Services content by using a custom policy, Create Business Intelligence Solutions by Using Office SharePoint Server 2007, Integrate Business Data with Office SharePoint Server 2007 by Using the Business Data Catalog (BDC), Access Office SharePoint Server 2007 Application Platform Services, Search Data by Using the Search Service, Target Content Based on Audience Membership, Customize Functionality by Using Profiles
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