Application Software
Application software is what allows the end user of an IT system to perform taks
productivity software
Productivity software
... [Show More] is used to allow users to perform their work-based tasks more efficiently
E.g. Word processing/Spreadsheet/Database/Presentation
Graphics and Multimedia Software
Graphics and Multimedia software is used to produce graphics and multimedia products on your computer system
E.g. CAD/graphics editing/desktop publishing/video editing software
Personal Software
Personal software is used in the home to help in our general lives
E.g. home finance/educational and entertainment software
Communication software
Communication software is used to allow users to share information by passing it from one device to another
E.g. email/web browsing/VoIP/instant messaging
Compatibility
Compatibility is whether it works with your current hardware and software
Open Source Software (OSS)
Open source software allows you to both use the software and access to view and modify the source code
Open Source Software (OSS) Adv/Dis
Adv- you can modify the software to adapt it to your needs
Dis- maintaining updates can be more difficult as there is usually a fast update cycle
Proprietary Software
Proprietary software allows you to use the software but remains intellectual property rights so you cannot view, modify and redistribute the source code
Proprietary Software- Adv/Dis
Adv- comes with the rights and expectations of proper ongoing support
Dis- licensing is much more restrictive and complicated
Emerging technologies in our personal lives
Smartwatches
Smart speakers
Self-driving cars
Adv- convenient and accessible
Dis- cost and over reliance
Emerging technologies in business
Augmented reality
Internet of things
3D printing
Adv- productive and reduces errors
Dis- cost and staff training
Factors to consider when choosing digital technology
Security
User experience
User needs
Specification
Compatibility
Connectivity
Cost
Efficiency
Implementation
Productivity
USB
Universal Serial Bus- à connector that is very commonly used with peripherals
Adv- fast transfer speeds, connect multiple devices, provides power, compatible with computers
Dis- relatively short range
SATA
Serial Advanced Technology Attachment- connector that is mostly used with internal storage devices but works with external ones
Adv- fast and compatible with computer systems
Dis- short range, no power
VGA
Visual Graphics Array- connector used with display devices
Adv- compatible with older devices and has built in locking mechanisms
Dis- signal can degrade easily, no high resolution
HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface)
Connector used with display devices
Adv- capable and excellent resolutions and transmits an audio signal
Dis- no locking mechanism
Ethernet Cable
Used to transmit data between IT systems, often in a LAN
Adv- very reliable, good range, compatible
Dis- limited mobility
fibre optic cable
Method of transmitting data between IT systems that is commonly used as part of a telephone network
Adv- excellent transfer speeds and range, very secure
Dis- very expensive
Infrared
Wireless connection that is commonly used with remote controls
Adv- used with peripheral devices (wireless mice)
Dis- requires a line of sight, transmission speed slow
Bluetooth
Wireless connection that is commonly used with peripheral devices like wireless mice and keyboards
Adv- easy to connect and lower power consumption
Dis- relatively slow and insecure
WiFi
Wireless connection that is used to access the internet, create a wireless LAN and connect to peripherals (printers)
Adv- relatively fast, long ranged, low cost
Dis- complex to setup, insecure
mobile broadband
It's a mobile connection that's is used wi [Show Less]