Application Software - Content

Question 1

What is application software?

Answer 1

It allows end users to complete tasks such as creating a report or presentation

Question 2

What are the uses of application software?

Answer 2

– Productivity software (wordprocessors, desktop publishers and spreadsheets used in office environments and in business tasks)

– graphic software (used to edit photos, create original artwork)

– communication software (make communicating quicker and easier through instant messaging or emails)

Question 3

What is proprietary software?

Answer 3

It is when the source code for the software is privately owned by the software company and uses pay to buy or subscribe to the software.

Question 4

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using proprietary software?

Answer 4

Advantages:
– support is provided by the software creators
– it may have more features an open source software

Disadvantages:
– the software company may be slow to provide updates and bug fixes
– software is usually generic with no customisation due to copyright
– expensive

Question 5

What is open source software?

Answer 5

It is software where the source code is available to read and modify

Question 6

What are the advantages and disadvantages of open source software?

Answer 6

Advantages:
– most open source software is free
– support and fixtures are provided by the community
– it is usually compatible with other proprietary utility software

Disadvantages:
– support with fast response may not be available when needed
– there may be indirect costs with paying for support and training

Question 7

What are some factors to consider when choosing a software?

Answer 7

– Easy to use
– reliability
– capability

Question 8

What are factors to consider when looking at the performance of a software?

Answer 8

– The maturity of the software
– the interoperability (interface with other devices or systems)
– support of dedicated hardware for complex tasks