For this textbook, Heinemann collaborated with the Design and Technology Education Foundation, which has been responsible for the introduction of new GCSE syllabuses for IT and for the popular IT Certificate of Competence scheme for secondary school pupils.

Through the use of case studies of organisations ranging from a motor manufacturer to a small theatre, students are invited to take on the job of an IT consultant and in the process learn about the generic applications featured within the national curriculum as well as communications, control technology and multimedia.

The book is addressed directly to the student and provides a range of tasks, activities and checklists as an aid to monitoring understanding and progress.

An engaging style and straightforward explanations, coupled with excellent layout and convincing real-life examples make this book ideal for a wide range of students at key stage 4.

It would also be an effective supplement to standard texts for those working towards a GNVQ level 2 in information technology. The combination of an experienced practitioner author and thoroughly researched context situations has produced a winner.

Richard Choat is head of Information and communication technology at William Ellis School, London.