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অ্যাপ্লিকেশন সফটওয়্যার পরিচিতি

Application software is designed for end-user tasks rather than for operating or programming a computer, and includes various types such as mobile apps and software suites. It can be proprietary or open-source and is categorized by legal aspects, platform, purpose, and industry needs. The distinction between application and system software can be subjective, leading to debates on classifications and the evolution of software usage.
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0% found this document useful (0 votes)
20 views8 pages

অ্যাপ্লিকেশন সফটওয়্যার পরিচিতি

Application software is designed for end-user tasks rather than for operating or programming a computer, and includes various types such as mobile apps and software suites. It can be proprietary or open-source and is categorized by legal aspects, platform, purpose, and industry needs. The distinction between application and system software can be subjective, leading to debates on classifications and the evolution of software usage.
Copyright
© All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

Application software

Application software is software that is intended for end-


user use – not operating, administering or programming a
computer. An application (app, application program,
software application) is any program that can be categorized
as application software.[1][2] Application is a subjective
classification that is often used to differentiate from system
and utility software.[3]

The abbreviation app became popular with the 2008


introduction of the iOS App Store, to refer to applications for
mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Later, with
the introduction of the Mac App Store (in 2010) and Windows
Store (in 2011).[4]

Applications may be bundled with the computer and its


system software or published separately. Applications may be
proprietary or open-source.[5]

Terminology A calculator application on Windows 10

Meaning program and software


When used as an adjective, application can have a broader meaning than that described in this article.[6]
For example, concepts such as application programming interface (API), application server, application
virtualization, application lifecycle management and portable application refer to programs and software
in general.

Distinction between system and application software


The distinction between system and application software is subjective and has been the subject of
controversy.[6] For example, one of the key questions in the United States v. Microsoft Corp. antitrust trial
was whether Microsoft's Internet Explorer web browser was part of its Windows operating system or a
separate piece of application software. As another example, the GNU/Linux naming controversy is, in
part, due to disagreement about the relationship between the Linux kernel and the operating systems built
over this kernel. In some types of embedded systems, the application software and the operating system
software may be indistinguishable by the user, as in the case of software used to control a VCR, DVD
player, or microwave oven. The above definitions may exclude some applications that may exist on some
computers in large organizations. For an alternative definition of an app: see Application Portfolio
Management.
Killer application
A killer application (killer app, coined in the late 1980s) is an application that is so popular that it causes
demand for its host platform to increase.[7][8] For example, VisiCalc was the first modern spreadsheet
software for the Apple II and helped sell the then-new personal computers into offices. For the
BlackBerry, it was its email software.

Software suite
As software suite consists of multiple applications bundled together. They usually have related functions,
features, and user interfaces, and may be able to interact with each other, e.g. open each other's files.
Business applications often come in suites, e.g. Microsoft Office, LibreOffice and iWork, which bundle
together a word processor, a spreadsheet, etc.; but suites exist for other purposes, e.g. graphics or music.

Ways to classify
As there so many applications and since their attributes vary so dramatically, there are many different
ways to classify them.

By legal aspects
Proprietary software is protected under an exclusive copyright, and a software license grants limited
usage rights. Such applications may allow add-ons from third parties.

Free and open-source software (FOSS) can be run, distributed, sold, and extended for any purpose. FOSS
software released under a free license may be perpetual and also royalty-free. Perhaps, the owner, the
holder or third-party enforcer of any right (copyright, trademark, patent, or ius in re aliena) are entitled to
add exceptions, limitations, time decays or expiring dates to the license terms of use.

Public-domain software is a type of FOSS that is royalty-free and can be run, distributed, modified,
reversed, republished, or created in derivative works without any copyright attribution and therefore
revocation. It can even be sold, but without transferring the public domain property to other single
subjects. Public-domain software can be released under a (un)licensing legal statement, which enforces
those terms and conditions for an indefinite duration (for a lifetime, or forever).

By platform
An application can be categorized by the host platform on which it runs. Notable platforms include
operating system (native), web browser, cloud computing and mobile. For example a web application
runs in a web browser whereas a more traditional, native application runs in the environment of a
computer's operating system.[9]

There has been a contentious debate regarding web applications replacing native applications for many
purposes, especially on mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets. Web apps have indeed greatly
increased in popularity for some uses, but the advantages of applications make them unlikely to disappear
soon, if ever. Furthermore, the two can be complementary, and even integrated.[10][11][12]
Horizontal vs. vertical
Application software can be seen as either horizontal or vertical.[13][14] Horizontal applications are more
popular and widespread, because they are general purpose, for example word processors or databases.
Vertical applications are niche products, designed for a particular type of industry or business, or
department within an organization. Integrated suites of software will try to handle every specific aspect
possible of, for example, manufacturing or banking worker, accounting, or customer service.

By purpose
There are many types of application software:[15]

Enterprise
Addresses the needs of an entire organization's processes and data flows, across several
departments, often in a large distributed environment. Examples include enterprise
resource planning systems, customer relationship management (CRM) systems, data
replication engines, and supply chain management software. Departmental Software is a
sub-type of enterprise software with a focus on smaller organizations or groups within a
large organization. (Examples include travel expense management and IT Helpdesk.)

Enterprise infrastructure
Provides common capabilities needed to support enterprise software systems. (Examples
include databases, email servers, and systems for managing networks and security.)

Application platform as a service (aPaaS)


A cloud computing service that offers development and deployment environments for
application services.

Knowledge worker
Lets users create and manage information, often for individual projects within a
department, in contrast to enterprise management. Examples include time management,
resource management, analytical, collaborative and documentation tools. Word
processors, spreadsheets, email and blog clients, personal information systems, and
individual media editors may aid in multiple information worker tasks.

Content access
Used primarily to access content without editing, but may include software that allows for
content editing. Such software addresses the needs of individuals and groups to consume
digital entertainment and published digital content. (Examples include media players, web
browsers, and help browsers.)

Educational
Related to content access software, but has the content or features adapted for use by
educators or students. For example, it may deliver evaluations (tests), track progress
through material, or include collaborative capabilities.

Simulation
Simulates physical or abstract systems for either research, training, or entertainment
purposes.

Media development
Generates print and electronic media for others to consume, most often in a commercial
or educational setting. This includes graphic-art software, desktop publishing software,
multimedia development software, HTML editors, digital-animation editors, digital audio
and video composition, and many others.[16]
Engineering
Used in developing hardware and software products. This includes computer-aided design
(CAD), computer-aided engineering (CAE), computer language editing and compiling
tools, integrated development environments, and application programmer interfaces.

Entertainment
Refers to video games, screen savers, programs to display motion pictures or play
recorded music, and other forms of entertainment which can be experienced through the
use of a computing device.

Taxonomy
This section is a taxonomy of application types with each section a grouping of application purpose.

Information worker
Accounting software
Data management
Contact manager
Spreadsheet
Database software
Documentation
Document automation
Word processor
Desktop publishing software
Diagramming software
Presentation software
Email
Blog software
Enterprise resource planning
Financial software
Banking software
Clearing systems
Financial accounting software
Financial software
Field service management
Workforce management software
Project management software
Calendaring software
Employee scheduling software
Workflow software
Reservation systems
Entertainment
Screen savers
Video games
Arcade video games
Console games
Mobile games
Personal computer games
Software art
Demo
64K intro

Educational
Classroom management
Reference software
Sales readiness software
Survey management
Encyclopedia software

Enterprise infrastructure
Artificial Intelligence for IT Operations (AIOps)
Business workflow software
Database management system (DBMS)
Digital asset management (DAM) software
Document management software
Geographic information system (GIS)

Simulation
Computer simulators
Scientific simulators
Social simulators
Battlefield simulators
Emergency simulators
Vehicle simulators
Flight simulators
Driving simulators
Simulation games
Vehicle simulation games
Media development
3D computer graphics software
Animation software
Graphic art software
Raster graphics editor
Vector graphics editor
Image organizer
Video editing software
Audio editing software
Digital audio workstation
Music sequencer
Scorewriter
HTML editor
Game development tool

Hardware engineering
Computer-aided engineering
Computer-aided design (CAD)
Computer-aided manufacturing (CAM)
Finite element analysis

Software development
Much of the software used to develop software is classified as utility instead of application software, but
classification of types of programs is subjective.

Integrated development environment


Game development tool
License manager
Version control

See also
Mobile app – Software application designed to run on mobile devices
Server (computing) – Computer to access a central resource or service on a network
Software development – Creation and maintenance of software
Super-app – Mobile application that provides multiple services including financial
transactions
Web application – Application that uses a web browser as a client

References
1. "application software" ([Link] Oxford English Dictionary
(Online ed.). Oxford University Press. (Subscription or participating institution membership (http
s://[Link]/public/login/loggingin#withyourlibrary) required.)
2. R. Shirey (August 2007). Internet Security Glossary, Version 2 ([Link]
rfc4949). Network Working Group. doi:10.17487/RFC4949 ([Link]
C4949). RFC 4949 ([Link] Informational.
3. "Application software" ([Link]
m). PC Magazine. Ziff Davis.
4. Thom Holwerda (24 June 2011). "The History of 'App' and the Demise of the Programmer"
([Link]
r/). [Link]. Retrieved 2023-01-12.
5. Ryan, Thorne (2013-03-14). "Caffeine and computer screens: student programmers endure
weekend long appathon" ([Link]
[Link]/2013/03/14/caffeine-and-computer-screens-student-programmers-endure-weekend-l
ong-appathon/). The Arbiter. Archived from the original ([Link]
4/caffeine-and-computer-screens-student-programmers-endure-weekend-long-appathon/)
on 2016-07-09. Retrieved 2015-10-12.
6. Ulrich, William (August 31, 2006). "Application Package Software: The Promise Vs. Reality"
([Link]
Cutter Consortium. Cutter Benchmark Review. Archived ([Link]
202225513/[Link]
93871) from the original on 2 February 2016. Retrieved 2023-01-12.
7. Dvorak, John (1989-07-01). "Looking to OS/2 for the next killer app is barking up the wrong
tree. Here's where they really come from" ([Link]
1IC&pg=PP75). PC Magazine. Ziff Davis. Retrieved 2023-03-25.
8. "killer app" ([Link] [Link]. Retrieved
2023-03-26. "Origin of killer app 1985–1990"
9. "Definition of desktop application" ([Link]
cation). PCMAG. Retrieved 2022-01-07.
10. Gassée, Jean-Louis (2012-09-17). "The Silly Web vs. Native Apps Debate" ([Link]
[Link]/web/20160415200141/[Link]
ate/). Archived from the original ([Link]
ebate/) on 2016-04-15. Retrieved 2013-07-14.
11. Frechette, Casey (2013-04-11). "What journalists need to know about the difference
between Web apps and native apps" ([Link]
now-about-difference-between-web-apps-and-native-apps). Poynter. Retrieved 2017-01-04.
12. Valums, Andrew (2010-02-10). "Web apps vs desktop apps" ([Link]
130402210926/[Link] [Link]. Archived from the original (htt
p://[Link]/web-apps/) on 2013-04-02. Retrieved 2013-07-14.
13. "What Is a Horizontal Application?" ([Link]
[Link]).
14. "What Are Horizontal Services?" ([Link]
[Link]/index2/html/java/[Link]
[Link]-LiB/[Link]). Archived from the original ([Link]
2/html/java/[Link]-LiB/ch21lev
[Link]) on 2013-10-31.
15. "What is Application Software & Its Types | eduCBA" ([Link]
cation-software-its-types/). eduCBA. 2015-12-21. Retrieved 2017-03-24.
16. Campbell-Kelly, Martin; Aspray, William (1996). Computer: A History of the Information
Machine. New York: Basic Books. ISBN 0-465-02990-6.
External links
Learning materials related to Application software at Wikiversity

Retrieved from "[Link]

Common questions

Powered by AI

Web applications offer the advantage of being cross-platform, meaning they can run on any device with a web browser, thus reducing development costs. They also ensure easy updates since the server-side software is updated centrally . However, they may not provide the same performance and integration capabilities as native applications, which can directly use device features for better performance and user experience . Native applications are optimized for specific devices, offering better speed and the ability to work offline, which web applications typically lack . The decision between the two often involves a trade-off between broader accessibility and deeper integration with device-specific features .

Horizontal market software is general-purpose and widely used across various industries, such as word processors or databases, because they serve common needs that are not specialized . Vertical market software, on the other hand, is specialized for specific industries or departments, tailored to meet niche demands, such as software used in banking or manufacturing . These programs often come in suites that integrate various functionalities tailored for the industry, offering a comprehensive solution for specific operational areas .

Application virtualization encapsulates software from the underlying operating system on which it is executed. This allows applications to run in a contained environment, reducing compatibility issues and simplifying deployment because multiple versions of applications or even different applications can run simultaneously without conflict . It allows for faster software deployment, as applications can be launched without extensive changes to the host system's configuration . Additionally, application updates and maintenance can be centralized, reducing the burden on user devices and improving security through easier patch management .

The GNU/Linux naming controversy centers around the recognition of the contributions made by the GNU Project and the Linux kernel to the operating system commonly referred to as Linux. Proponents of 'GNU/Linux' argue that it acknowledges the fundamental system utilities provided by GNU, which are integral to the full functionality of the operating system . This debate illustrates broader implications for software identity and branding by highlighting contributions across different development communities and the need for collective recognition. The controversy also impacts brand perception, as names can influence user understanding and crediting of software heritage and innovation . This complex relationship between software components underscores the importance of clear attribution within collaborative open-source ecosystems .

A 'killer application' is so compelling that it drives the demand for its associated platform, acting as a significant motivator for people to adopt the hardware on which it runs. Historically, VisiCalc, the first modern spreadsheet software, was a killer app for the Apple II, boosting its sales by providing a powerful tool that revolutionized office tasks . Similarly, the email functionality was critical for the popularity and adoption of the BlackBerry, underscoring how a particular application can enhance the marketability and acceptance of computing platforms .

Enterprise software is designed to meet the comprehensive needs of an entire organization, facilitating processes and data flows across multiple departments, often within a large, distributed environment. It typically includes systems like enterprise resource planning (ERP), which integrates various business functions into a unified system . Conversely, departmental software is tailored to the specific needs of a smaller group or single department, focusing on optimizing particular tasks such as travel expense management or an IT helpdesk . The main distinction lies in the scale and integration scope, with enterprise software providing broader, organization-wide solutions, while departmental software targets specific workflows within individual units .

Educational software technologies offer opportunities for personalized learning, allowing educators to tailor content and evaluations to individual student needs, thereby enhancing engagement and retention. They can also facilitate collaborative learning environments through online platforms and tools, supporting skills that are crucial in modern education . However, challenges include ensuring equitable access to technology, as disparities in resources can affect the efficacy of these tools in different demographics. Additionally, integrating these technologies into curricula can require significant training and adjustment for educators, posing implementation challenges. Nevertheless, the potential for innovative educational experiences and improved learning outcomes presents substantial opportunities for the education sector .

Open-source software offers the benefit of flexibility, allowing users to modify and distribute the software freely. This openness can foster a community-driven approach to software improvement, often leading to rapid bug fixes and feature enhancements . However, OSS may lack comprehensive user support and polished user interfaces found in proprietary software, potentially complicating its usability for non-technical users . Proprietary software, while generally offering strong support and stability, can be limited by licensing restrictions that prevent modifications, leading to less flexibility in customization . The choice often depends on a user’s specific needs: control and innovation in OSS versus reliability and support in proprietary options .

Cloud-based application platform as a service (aPaaS) offers an environment for developing, deploying, and managing applications without the complexity of maintaining the underlying infrastructure. It accelerates the development lifecycle by providing pre-configured environments and tools, enabling developers to focus on writing code rather than configuring servers and infrastructure . aPaaS supports continuous integration and continuous deployment (CI/CD) practices, allowing for faster iterations and rapid release cycles. It also facilitates scalability, as developers can easily adjust resources according to application needs without foundational changes to the application itself . This service model increases operational efficiency and supports innovation by eliminating infrastructure management concerns .

Application software is designed for end-users to perform specific tasks such as word processing, media playback, or data management, making it user-oriented . In contrast, system software provides essential functions to operate a computer and serves as a platform for application software, encompassing operating systems and utility programs . System software usually operates in the background, managing hardware and software resources without direct user interaction, whereas application software interacts directly with users to fulfill tasks .

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