Write down the purpose of application software and user interface software in the database system
Answers
Computer hardware is virtually useless without computer software. Software is the programs that are needed to accomplish the input, processing, output, storage, and control activities of information systems.
Computer software is typically classified into two major types of programs: system software and application software.
System Software
Systems software are programs that manage the resources of the computer system and simplify applications programming. They include software such as the operating system, database management systems, networking software, translators, and software utilities.
Application Software
Application software are programs that direct the performance of a particular use, or application, of computers to meet the information processing needs of end users. They include Aoff-the-shelf@ software such as word processing and spreadsheet packages, as well as internally or externally developed software that is designed to meet the specific needs of an organization.
Software trends have been away from custom-designed one-of-kind programs developed by the professional programmers or end users of an organization toward the use of Aoff-the-shelf@ software packages acquired by end users from software vendors.
Two types of packages are available:
1. Vertical packages - assist users within a specific industry segment. Examples include packages that help to manage construction projects, keep track of inventory of hospitals, or fast-food outlets.
2. Horizontal packages - can perform a certain general function, such as accounting, or office automation, for a range of businesses.
Relationships between Hardware and Software Components [Figure 5.1][Slide 5-3]
Figure 5.1 is an excellent tool to use to explain the relationship that exists between computer systems hardware,