1. Types of Software
Module 5.12

2. Types of Software User Interface Operating Systems
Utilities: Translators (Assemblers, Compliers, Interpreters)
Drivers
Application Software
Programming Languages? Is this software?

3. Operating Systems
A program or suite of programs that control the entire operation of the computer.
Deals with the basic functions of the computer.
At a technical level, it handles the basic and central functions such as input and output operations and interrupts.
Examples include: MS-DOS, UNIX, Windows 7, LINUX, Android, Mac OS, Ubuntu

4. User Interfaces
Methods by which the user can interface with the operating system/application
Command line
Dialog boxes
Menus
Windows

5. Utilities
Designed to perform a commonplace task, for example the transfer of data from one storage device to another, sorting a set of data, disk editor.
They are designed to make the operation of the computer easier.
Other examples: formatting programs, backup programs, anti-virus, etc.

6. Translation
Programs which convert a program from one language to another, for example from low level language to machine code.
This is the general name for three types of translators:
Assemblers
Compilers
Interpreters

7. Application Generic Tailor-Made Off-the-shelf
Cross over between categories:
Generic is off-the-shelf
Programming languages can be off-the-shelf and used to create tailor-made software

8. Generic
These are off-the-shelf packages which do not meet a specific purpose but serve a general purpose
For example:
Microsoft Office; Word Processors, Spreadsheets, Databases
Photoshop
OpenOffice.Org
The software can then be customised to produce the result you want.

9. Tailor-Made Either: Or: Bespoke Customisation
The application is written for the purpose by a software house
Disads: Time consuming, expensive, limited support/books.
Ads: Fulfils purpose, individual support
Or:
Customisation
A generic application is customised using a programming language
Disads: Need to purchase the application and you get more than required.
Ads: Cheaper, lots of support.

10. Off-the-Shelf Purchasing solutions from a shop without alteration
For example:
Microsoft Office
Adobe CS6 (Creative Suite)
The idea is to be able to open the package and run the software which delivers a specific solution
Can be generic (word processors)

11. Programming Languages
There are a variety of programming languages available.
Each language has a specific purpose
FORTRAN – Formula Translation
Mathematical and Scientific
COBOL – Common Business Orientated Language
Business, Data Processing
Languages can also be used to enhance the application:
Use of VBA to write macros, or write dll’s