Application Software

Application Software

Application Software

Topic: Application Software | Class: SSS One

Definition of Application Software

  1. Application software is a program or group of programs designed for end users.
  2. A program is called an application program if it performs some human-oriented task (e.g., writing, calculating, drawing).

Types of Application Software

Application software is generally divided into two main classes:

(i) User Application Software
These are user-written software tailored to meet the user’s specific needs. Users create this software themselves and often overlook how important it is.
Examples include:
  • Spreadsheet templates
  • Word processor macros
  • Scientific simulations
  • Animation scripts
(ii) Application Packages (Application Suites)
This consists of multiple integrated programs bundled together to address a specific, broad need, often from a single vendor.
Examples are:
  • Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
  • OpenOffice.org / LibreOffice
  • iWork (Pages, Numbers, Keynote)

Application Package Categories

Application packages are grouped into two primary categories based on their scope:

General-Purpose Application Software Packages

This software is used to perform a broad variety of tasks and is useful to nearly all computer users. It is not limited to one particular function.

Word Processing
The process of using a computer to create, edit, and print text-based documents.
  • Examples: Ms–Word, Word Star, Word Perfect, Windows WordPad.
Spreadsheet
Computer programs that let you perform mathematical, statistical, and accounting calculations electronically using rows and columns.
  • Examples: Google Sheets, iWork Numbers, Microsoft Excel, VisiCalc, WPS Spreadsheet.
Presentation
Software used to display information, normally in the form of a slide show for a formal talk or lecture.
  • Examples: MS PowerPoint, Corel Presentations, OpenOffice.org Impress, SlideWiki, Emaze, WPS Presentation.
Database Management System (DBMS)
A program that lets one or more computer users create and access data in an organized database.
  • Examples: MS Access, Oracle, SQL Server, FOXPRO, Dbase.
Graphics Package
An application used to create and manipulate images (both raster and vector) on a computer.
  • Examples: CorelDRAW, Microsoft Paint, Photoshop, Harvard Graphics.
Games
A video game is an application software in which users interact with a user interface or input device to generate visual and audio feedback on a video device, based on a defined set of rules, constraints, and goals.
  • Examples: GTA, Chess, Modern Combat, FIFA.

Special (Specific) Purpose Application Software Packages

These are software packages that are highly specialized and limited in scope, usually performing one specific task much better than a general-purpose program.

Accounting Management
The practical application of management techniques to control and report on the financial health of an organization (e.g., invoicing, ledgers).
Payroll System
A program designed for calculating the regular compensation, wages, and deductions paid to every employee.
Banking Software
Enables the management, monitoring, and control of transactions for financial institutions and banks (e.g., core banking systems).
Hospital Management Software (HIS)
A comprehensive system designed to manage the administrative, financial, and clinical aspects of a hospital. Benefits include easy access to patient data and efficient administration.
Reservation System
A computerized system used to store, retrieve, and conduct transactions related to travel (e.g., airline ticket booking, hotel rooms).
Human Resources (HR) Management
Handles employee-related activities like staffing needs, recruitment, training, performance issues, and benefits administration.
Attendance System
Used to track employee time transactions (check-in/out) via devices like barcode readers, manage the data, and generate payroll-related reports.
Billing System
Tracks customer usage of services and calculates the impact on a customer’s account based on the price of the service (e.g., utility bills, telecom charges).

Application vs. System Software

Understanding the difference between Application Software and System Software is key to grasping how a computer functions.

Application Software System Software
To perform specific user tasks (e.g., calculations, drawing, writing). To manage and control the computer hardware and provide a platform for apps.
High (Users interact directly with it). Low (Users interact indirectly, usually through the OS).
Cannot run without System Software (the OS). Can run independently of application software.

Benefits of Application Software

Application programs are essential because they enhance user capability in several ways:

  • Increased Productivity: Programs like spreadsheets and word processors allow tasks to be completed faster and more accurately.
  • Better Organization: Databases and file managers help users structure, store, and retrieve vast amounts of information efficiently.
  • Improved Communication: Tools (like presentation and email software) facilitate the creation and sharing of professional content.
  • Specialization: They allow non-technical users to perform complex tasks (e.g., Graphics, CAD) without needing deep technical knowledge.

Test Your Knowledge 🧠

Answer the questions below to check your understanding of Application Software!

1. Which type of application software is designed to manage administrative, financial, and clinical aspects of a hospital?

2. Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, and VisiCalc are examples of which type of general-purpose software?

3. A program designed to create, edit, and print text-based documents is a:

4. Which statement is FALSE regarding Application Software?

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