What is a Computer Software?
A software refers to the set of instructions in the form of machine codes that a computer follows in solving a problem. A computer software is also known as a program. These instructions tell the hardware and sometimes other programs how to perform. The two main types of software are System Software and Application software.
Introduction to Application Software
Application software refers to the programs that have been developed to solve specific tasks. This type of program is also called user or live ware program. It’s also called user software.
These are the type of software that computer users are usually familiar with compared to system software which are considered as background software. There are several examples of these software. Some of these are gaming software, text editors, calculators, web browsers, and databases.
Types of Application Software
Application software can be classified into the following broad categories:
- Productivity Software
Productivity software is a software enables users to create files such as documents, databases, and spreadsheets needed in the production of information. These applications are usually known as office suite because they help facilitate office activities to make work easier and faster. Examples are word processors, spreadsheets, presentation software, browsers, desktop publishing software, and database management software. - Educational Software
Educational Software, also known as instructional software, are applications design to facilitate teaching and learning and also serve as references for academic information. Examples are Microsoft Encanta and Google Classroom - Entertainment Software
Entertainment Software are applications designed to provide entertainment to users. Example of entertainment software include computer games such as FIFA 2022, music players, and video applications. - Web Browsers
Web browsers are application software that enable internet users to access and use the content of the World Wide Web. Examples of web browsers are Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome, Opera Mini, Safari, and Firefox - Communication Software
Communication Software are applications that facilitate the processing and transmission of data or information over a computer network. Examples of communication software are Zoom, Google Meet, Microsoft Teams, Email Systems, and Instant Messaging Apps. - Custom Software.
A custom software is the type of application that is purposefully designed to meet the requirements of an organization or an individual. Custom software usually has the contact and business information of the intended or organization or individual. Examples of custom software include those used by Point of Sale (POS) systems used at the supermarkets, customer applications used by banks, and most school management systems
SPREADSHEETS APPLICATIONS
Spreadsheet is an application software consisting of gids rows and columns that is used to store and manage data electronically.
This type of application enables users to perform calculations using predefined formulae to perform data analysis, generate reports and dashboards, and sometimes for storing data. Examples of spreadsheet application are Microsoft excel and Google Sheet.
DESKTOP PUBLISHING SOFTWARE
Desktop publishing software is an application program that enable users to combine graphics and text to produce books, newsletters, and flyers. Examples of Desktop Publishing Software are CorelDRAW, Adobe Photoshop, and Microsoft Publisher
DATABASE MANAGEMENT SYSTEM (DBMS)
Database Management System (DBMS) is a type of software that enables the storage and retrieval of large volumes of data by providing different levels of data access controls. Examples of Database Management Systems are Microsoft Access, MySQL, Oracle, and PostGre.
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