Week 4: Clear

Application Software may seem obscure and the average adult with a PC may not realize he or she utilizes applications on a daily basis. All applications serve the purpose of creating user-based content; this is the defining line between an application or system software. For example, application software comes in a variety of forms such as games (Rock Band 2), organization programs (Turbo Tax). More specifically, applications can be classified based upon three categories: vertical vs. horizontal applications, software suites vs. standalones, and functional categories.



There is one defining difference between horizontal and vertical applications. Vertical applications are used in only one type of business or industry. Horizontal applications, on the other hand, can be utilized in a wide array of businesses and also on a personal basis. Vertical applications are mainly used for point-of-sale registers, customer relations management, and various other company-specific software. Horizontal applications include programs such as Microsoft Word, Itunes and Safari.



Another way to define applications is whether each application is a standalone or software suite. Standalone applications are capable of running on their own and are not bundled with other applications. Examples of standalone applications are Itunes and most web browsers (Firefox). Software suites are unlike standalones by the fact that the applications are bundled and share common features to increase ease. There are many reasons why software suites are great to use such as crossover and transferring information is easy, reduces training costs, increases productivity and easier to manage various accounts.



The last category is functionality. Functional applications are utilized in various types of business such as finance, desktop publishing, graphics and word processing. Each has a "go-to" application that is univerally used throughout each given industry; such examples are Quickbooks, Quark, Adobe Photoshop and Microsoft Word.



Applications are often overlooked, but make computing easier than ever. With time, any one can use virtually any application with little original knowledge. There are various websites to learn more about applications in general and it is best to go to an application's website to learn specifically about its inner workings. For more information utilize: http://www.ehow.com/how_4487281_use-computer-applications.html





This will really get the information flowing and allow avenues to learn more in-depth about interesting topics.