ACCA Performance Management (F5) Certification Practice Exam

Which aspect is linked to 'timeliness' in information characteristics?

1. Information available at a low cost

2. Information delivered without delay

3. Information that is easy to understand

4. Information that can be accessed anytime

The correct answer is: Information delivered without delay

Timeliness in information characteristics refers to the relevance of information in relation to the time at which it is received or needed. The essence of timeliness lies in ensuring that information is available when it is most useful for decision-making processes. Therefore, delivering information without delay is crucial as it directly affects the ability to make informed decisions quickly. This characteristic ensures that the information reflects the most current circumstances and reduces the risk of decisions being made based on outdated data. The other aspects do not specifically address the notion of timeliness in the same direct manner. While information that is accessible at any time may seem related to being timely, it does not guarantee that it is delivered promptly when needed. Similarly, ease of understanding enhances the usability of information but does not inherently concern the timing of its delivery. Lastly, availability at a low cost is more about economic considerations rather than the timing aspect of information delivery. Therefore, the focus on prompt delivery aligns perfectly with the concept of timeliness in information characteristics.