Page 36 - DCAP210_INTRODUCTION__TO_MICROPROCESSORS

Introduction to Microprocessors

Notes low-level language and executed by the computer. Most modern software is written in a high-
level language, compiled into object code, and then translated into machine instructions.
Computer languages could also be grouped based on other criteria. Another distinction could be
made between human-readable and non-human-readable languages. Human-readable languages
are designed to be used directly by humans to communicate with the computer. Non-human-
readable languages, though they can often be partially understandable, are designed to be more
compact and easily processed, sacrificing readability to meet these ends.

2.4.1 Application Software Classification

Application software falls into two general categories: horizontal applications and vertical
applications. Horizontal Applications are the most popular and widespread in departments or
companies. Vertical Applications are niche products, designed for a particular type of business
or division in a company.
There are many types of application software:

• An application 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,
OpenOffice.org and Work, which bundle together a word processor, a spreadsheet, etc.; but
suites exist for other purposes, e.g. graphics or music.
• Enterprise software addresses the needs of organization processes and data flow, often in a
large distributed environment (Examples include financial systems, customer relationship
management (CRM), systems and supply-chain management software). Note that
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 software provides common capabilities needed to support enterprise
software systems. (Examples include databases, email servers, and systems for managing
networks and security.)

• Information worker software addresses the needs of individuals to create and manage
information, often for individual projects within a department, in contrast to enterprise
management. Examples include time management, resource management, documentation
tools, analytical, and collaborative. Word processors, spreadsheets, email and blog clients,
personal information system, and individual media editors may aid in multiple information
worker tasks.

• Content access software is software 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, Help browsers and Games).
• Educational software is related to content access software, but has the content and/or features
adapted for use in by educators or students. For example, it may deliver evaluations (tests),
track progress through material, or include collaborative capabilities.

• Simulation software is computer software for simulation of physical or abstract systems for
research, training or entertainment purposes.
• Media development software addresses the needs of individuals who generate 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.

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