- Application software also known as applications or apps, it is computer software designed to help the user to perform singular or multiple related specific tasks. Examples include Enterprise software, Accounting software, Office suites, Graphics software, and Media players. Application software contrasts with system software, a generic term referring to the computer programs used to start and run computer systems and networks; and programming tools, such as compilers and linkers, used to translate and combine computer program source code. In addition, application software is a program or group of programs designed for end users. Software can be divided into two general classes: systems software and applications software. Systems software consists of low-level programs that interact with the computer at a very basic level. This includes operating systems, compilers, and utilities for managing computer resources. Typical examples of software applications are word processors, spreadsheets, and media players.
Differences between written software and off-the-shelf software.
- Off-the-shelf solutions can meet primary requirements but demand greater flexibility from the business. Written software offer greater flexibility and can therefore be designed to meet business needs and can solve the precise solution.
- At the development stage, off the shelf needs training courses and material which makes a greater demands on business to change their existing processes. However, written software solutions can be designed to mirror existing business processes, however require training material to be developed from scratch and are prone to ‘requirements creep.’
- Written software can be modified and improve which may have the exact needs in the changing business requirement, therefore they need to establish their own support channels and policies to support the users of the new system. On the other hand, off the shelf software generally limited modified for the changes of the business. Therefore, they have well developed support infrastructure and regular updates.
- Written software is design to make a specific task and requirements for the business need to change. However, off-the-shelf software is difficult to meet all the requirements for the business, as they only contain features and little needs. But the software is already tested before it is sold and it is easy to use.
- Off-the-shelf software is usually reasonably priced and it is also cheap. The cost of development of the off-the-shelf product is distributed over a number of buyers and thus the pricing is spread over the number of licenses that will be sold. Moreover, many off-the-shelf products offer a money back guarantee if the software does not serve your purpose. This makes the investment in the software safe. Whereas, written software price is expensive. This is because it is made just for one buyer and thus the entire cost of development has to be borne by one customer. They need to hire a expertise programmers to do the software and may takes a lot of time to finish it.
