Software

Software

1. Programming language

   • Low-Level Languages
     • Low level language consists of small set of commands called "Mnemonics" Example is Assembly Language.
     • Advantage: It is fast to execute the commands.
     • Disadvantages: It is difficult to read and understand. It is hard to debug.
   • High-Level Languages
     • High level language is a programming language that is closed to human language. Such example is C++.
     • Advantages: It is easier to understand as it is closer to the English language. It is easier to debug.
     • Disadvantage: It is slower to execute.
   • A computer program is a collection of commands that the computer has to follow. The commands is written in either Low language or High Level language.

2. User interface

   • Menu Interface
     • User is presented with a number of options. It allows user to select from the number of options.
     • Advantage: It is very user friendly.
   • Command line Interface
     • Advantage: It is fast
     • Disadvantage: User needs to learn the command before using.
     • It allows user to interact with the computer by typing a series of text.
   • Graphical User Interface
     • User is presented with graphical options. It incorporates window, icons, menus and pointers.
     • Advantage: It is easy to learn.
     • Disadvantage: It requires more processing power.
   • The computer Os require user interaction at some point. The interface comes in 3 forms; User, Graphical and Menu.

3. Application Software

   • Application software enable users to perform specifi tasks, such as producing documents, spreadsheet,calculation, and database management.
   • Off-the-shelf software
     • Advantage
       • Cheaper
       • Readily available and can be used straight away
       • Well tested before it is sold in the market
     • Disadvantage
       • It is not customized to the needs of company
       • It may be overly complex and difficult to learn
       • Errors in the software may not be troubleshoot by the develper
   • Custom-made soft ware (bespoke software)
     • Advantage
       • It is customized according to the needs of the company
       • It helps the company increase efficiency
     • Disadvantage
       • The cost of custom-made software is higher
     • It is a software written specially to suit the needs of a comany
     • It does exactly what is required for the company