Types of Software

In the present day world, computers play a significant part in our daily life. To provide us different services, different types of software are run on these computers. Computer software is generally of three types: System software, Application software and Off-the-shelf Software. A brief outline of each type of software is given below.

System software

This is the software which is actually running your computer. This software handles different request for use the hardware, many housekeeping work, storage of data etc. A good example of such system software is the Windows program which is running your computer. Linux and UNIX are the other common system software available for running computers.

Application software

These types of software are developed to handle a specific task and are developed to cater for the specific requirement of the user. This could be the Payroll system or the Accounting system of your company. The system is developed keeping all the requirements of the user in mind. But, for small companies it would not be a good idea to develop software applications specifically for your use. To keep the system running properly, you should have skilled IT expertise available to you and you might have to spend lots time and money to run the system properly.

Off-the-shelf software

When software is developed catering for your specific requirement, you would be able to execute all the functions you desire. But, development of software would be quite costly and may not be suitable for small enterprises for their implementation.

Off-the-shelf software generally provides some standard functions and they do not cost much. But, you may find that the software does not provide what you require. Therefore, you might have to change your business practice to be in line with this shrink-wrapped software.

Because, the software is sold in large quantities, you would get proper support from the software vendor. Also, proper training facilities would be available so that you could extract the maximum benefit of using the software package.

These standard off-the-shelf software packages are the best solution for small companies. The packages could be word processing program, office applications etc. Sometimes, these packages could be modified if it does not provide all the functionality you desire.

Now days, another kind of software are available. They are called Open source software. This type of software generally does not cost you anything and allows you to make copies and pass on to others. Sometimes, the source code of the software is also provided which you could modify as per your requirement.

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