Week 4:Clear/Application Software

This week in class we began the lectures by learning about application software. I have never put much thought into the software I use, even though I have realized that I use it a lot and without it I would really have no need for my computer. Application software consists of software that helps you solve your direct needs. Application software is designed for productivity and assisting with personal tasks like research or writing reports. Different types of application software include horizontal applications, vertical applications, software suites, and standalone applications.

Horizontal applications are programs that can be used in any industry for all types of programs that any business can use. An example of a horizontal application would be word processing or web browsing. Vertical applications are programs that are specific to one industry. If a business outside of that industry tries to use it it won't meet the same needs, an example would be a restaurant ordering system. A Software suite is a set of programs that is created and implemented in a common way so that the entire suite of programs shares those features. Microsoft office is an example of a software suite with word processing, spreadsheet, etc. A standalone application is something that is not integrated with any other program and is seen as on it's own, like iTunes or Mozilla Firefox.

To get a broad overview of what application software is and what the different types are click here.