Software and Computer Systems

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary function of software in a computer system?

To physically touch the computer hardware

To provide instructions to the hardware on what to do (correct)

To create a computer program or collection of programs

To enable the computer to think on its own

What enables your phone to play music and video?

Open-source software

Cloud computing

Hardware

Software (correct)

What is the primary characteristic of open-source software?

It is expensive to obtain

It can be freely used and modified (correct)

It is only available for desktop computers

It is only available for mobile devices

What is the benefit of managers understanding software?

They can better understand the possibilities and impact of technology Signup and view all the answers

What is the outcome of hardware getting faster and cheaper?

It creates all sorts of exciting and disruptive opportunities for organizations Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a computer program or collection of programs?

Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of not having software in a computer system?

The hardware would not be functional Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of software in an ATM?

It enables the ATM to process transactions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an Operating System?

To manage hardware resources and create an interface between the hardware and the user Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the way a user interacts with a program on a computer?

GUI Signup and view all the answers

Which company provided the first operating system for the IBM-PC, released in 1981?

Microsoft Signup and view all the answers

What does the term '64-bit' indicate in a computer?

The size of data that can be moved within the computer Signup and view all the answers

What type of computers did Unix originally run on?

Large and expensive minicomputers Signup and view all the answers

Why did companies invest in Microsoft software and operating systems?

Because they were already using IBM mainframe computers Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the operating system developed by Linus Torvalds?

Linux Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an operating system's user-interface components?

To create a interface between the hardware and the user Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for the ability of a computer to run multiple programs at the same time?

Multitasking Signup and view all the answers

What type of software is designed to perform specific tasks for the user?

Application Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the market share of Microsoft's desktop operating system, Windows?

71% Signup and view all the answers

What type of software is used to accomplish a specific goal such as word processing, calculations on a spreadsheet, or surfing the internet using a web browser?

Application Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the most popular spreadsheet package?

Microsoft Excel Signup and view all the answers

What is the file format of Microsoft Word's documents?

DOCX Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Database management system?

To serve as an electronic filing cabinet for records Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Desktop publishing software?

To design and produce sales brochures Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Financial software?

To compile accounting and financial data Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Presentation software?

To create slideshow presentations Signup and view all the answers

What is the most popular software right now for creating slideshow presentations?

Microsoft PowerPoint Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of Word processing software?

To create and edit documents Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the cloudbased version of Microsoft Office?

Microsoft Office 365 Signup and view all the answers

What was the killer application for the personal computer?

Spreadsheets Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of collaborative systems?

To allow users to brainstorm ideas together Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the tool that integrates with Microsoft Office and allows for collaboration?

Microsoft SharePoint Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of utility software?

To fix or modify your computer in some way Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the tool that allows programmers/developers to develop software?

GitHub Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of programming software?

To produce software Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the first spreadsheet created?

The first spreadsheet created by an MBA student at Harvard University Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the tool that combines video and audio communications and allows participants to interact with each other’s computer desktops?

Cisco WebEx Signup and view all the answers

What is the name of the tool that offers a suite of office applications that can be shared between individuals?

Google Drive Signup and view all the answers

What is the software provided by the corporation that developed the programming language?

Integrated Development Environment (IDE) Signup and view all the answers

What type of software is used by businesses to facilitate operations?

Enterprise Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system?

To support multiple, simultaneous users in an organization Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Database Management System (DBMS)?

To store and retrieve data Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for software applications installed on a personal computer?

Desktop Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for software applications that address the needs of multiple, simultaneous users in an organization?

Enterprise Software Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software package?

To coordinate and integrate many of the functions of a business Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a software application designed to run specifically on a mobile device?

Mobile App Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a Database Management System (DBMS)?

To store and retrieve data Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a company that sells software packages to support business operations?

Software Provider Signup and view all the answers

What is the main reason why businesses are investing in the development of mobile apps?

To keep up with the trend of increasing smartphone usage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary characteristic of cloud computing?

The use of massive server farms and storage devices Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using Software as a Service (SaaS)?

Having access to a large assortment of software packages Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of cloud computing?

The reliance on a third-party to provide services Signup and view all the answers

What is the risk of using SaaS?

The risk of being forced to adopt new versions of software Signup and view all the answers

What is a benefit of using cloud computing?

The ability to scale to a large number of users easily Signup and view all the answers

What is Amazon Web Services (AWS)?

A cloud computing platform Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of cloud computing?

The availability of software from any computer with internet access Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of using SaaS?

The reliance on a third-party to provide services Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of an organization's link to the internet going down when using SaaS?

The organization's link to its SaaS vendor is severed Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary benefit of using a private cloud?

Reducing the need for installing software and adding disk storage to local computers Signup and view all the answers

What is the common characteristic of the Knowledge Check elements excluded from this version of the text?

They are online H5P elements Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of virtualization?

To reduce the demand for electricity to run and cool physical servers Signup and view all the answers

Where can you view the interactive H5P elements that were excluded from this version of the text?

At the provided URL Signup and view all the answers

What is proprietary software?

Software developed internally for a specific problem Signup and view all the answers

What is off-the-shelf software?

Software readily available and already developed Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of the Knowledge Check elements in the online text?

To assess the reader's understanding of the topic Signup and view all the answers

What is the process of creating a set of logical instructions for a digital device to follow?

Programming Signup and view all the answers

How many Knowledge Check elements were excluded from this version of the text?

4 Signup and view all the answers

What is the format of the online text that includes the interactive H5P elements?

Pressbook Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of using proprietary software?

Getting exactly what you need and want Signup and view all the answers

What is the disadvantage of using proprietary software?

Significant investment of time and money Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of using off-the-shelf software?

Initial cost is lower Signup and view all the answers

What was the original approach to software development?

Individual programmers working on entire programs Signup and view all the answers

What is the disadvantage of using off-the-shelf software?

Might pay for features that are not needed or wanted Signup and view all the answers

Why did software developers stop sharing their programs?

They wanted to make a profit from their software Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of programming languages?

To create a set of logical instructions for a digital device to follow Signup and view all the answers

What do you technically own when you purchase software?

A license to use the software Signup and view all the answers

What is a common restriction in software agreements?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the main goal of the open-source movement?

To innovate and progress rapidly Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of open-source software?

The source code is available for anyone to copy and use Signup and view all the answers

Why are some businesses wary of open-source software?

Because the code is available for anyone to see Signup and view all the answers

What was the outcome of computer enthusiasts sharing programs and solutions in the 1970s?

They were able to innovate and fix problems quickly Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of open-source software?

Firefox browser Signup and view all the answers

What is the result of the shift from individual to collaborative software development?

Faster innovation and progress Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of open-source software?

The source code is available for examination and modification Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between operating systems and application software?

Operating systems interface with hardware, while application software focuses on user tasks Signup and view all the answers

What is cloud computing?

A way to access software and databases over the internet Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of software as a service (SaaS)?

It provides access to a wide range of software without the need for local installation Signup and view all the answers

What is the disadvantage of using open-source software?

Technical support is not always available Signup and view all the answers

What is the benefit of a large community of programmers working on open-source projects?

It leads to quicker bug-fixing and feature additions Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of desktop applications?

They are designed for a single user Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of sourceforge.net?

It is a website for downloading open-source software Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an application software?

To permit the user to perform a group of coordinated functions Signup and view all the answers

What is the advantage of enterprise software?

It is designed for multiple users in an organization Signup and view all the answers

What is cloud computing?

The practice of using a network of remote servers hosted on the Internet Signup and view all the answers

What is the disadvantage of cloud computing?

It is reliant on internet connectivity and can be affected by service provider disruptions Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system?

To organize, automate, and synchronize sales, marketing, customer service, and technical support Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Database Management System (DBMS)?

To store and retrieve the data that an application creates Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a software application that is rented rather than purchased?

Software as a Service (SaaS) Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system?

To utilize a central database that is implemented throughout the entire organization Signup and view all the answers

What is the term for a software application that is viewed as so desirable by consumers that it can influence them to purchase devices or applications that include it?

Killer App Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Virtualization system?

To create a virtual (rather than actual) version of something Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Private Cloud?

To create a distinct and secure cloud-based environment in which only the specified client can operate Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of LINUX/UNIX?

To run on the personal computer Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Chapter 4: Software

4.1. Chapter Introduction

Software refers to a computer program or collection of programs that tell the hardware what to do.
Software is categorized into two primary types: Operating Systems and Application Software.
Managers who understand software can make better decisions regarding the strategic value of IT and technology-driven savings.

4.2. Operating Systems

Operating systems manage hardware and create an interface between hardware and the user.
Functions of an operating system include:
- Managing hardware resources
- Providing user-interface components
- Providing a platform for software developers to write applications
Popular operating systems for personal computers are:
- Microsoft Windows
- Apple's Mac OS
- Linux
Microsoft provided the first operating system for the IBM-PC in 1981, and introduced Windows in 1985.

4.3. Application Software

Application software is used to accomplish a specific goal, such as:
- Word processing
- Calculations on a spreadsheet
- Surfing the internet
Types of application software include:
- Productivity software (e.g., Microsoft Office)
- Multimedia software
- Home software
- Communication and collaboration software
Productivity software includes:
- Word processors (e.g., Microsoft Word)
- Spreadsheets (e.g., Microsoft Excel)
- Presentation software (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint)
- Database management systems (e.g., Microsoft Access)
The "killer" application for the personal computer was the spreadsheet.

4.4. Desktop and Enterprise Software

Desktop software refers to applications installed on a personal computer.
Enterprise software refers to applications that address the needs of multiple users in an organization or work group.
Enterprise resource planning (ERP) software packages coordinate and integrate many of the functions of a business.
Leading ERP vendors include SAP and Oracle.

4.5. Mobile Software

Mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets also have operating systems and application software.
Mobile apps are designed to run specifically on mobile devices.
Businesses have increased investment in mobile app development.
Cloud computing has changed the way software is accessed and used.

Cloud Computing

Cloud computing provides applications, services, and data storage over the internet.
Advantages of cloud computing include:
- No software to install or upgrades to maintain
- Available from any computer with internet access
- Can scale to a large number of users easily
- New applications can be up and running quickly
- Services can be leased for a limited time on an as-needed basis
Disadvantages of cloud computing include:
- Information is stored on someone else's computer
- Requires internet access
- Relies on a third-party provider### Software and Its Importance
Software gives instructions to the hardware to perform specific tasks.
Two basic categories of software: operating systems and applications.

Operating Systems

Interface with computer hardware and make system resources available.
Examples: Android, iOS, Linux/UNIX, Windows.

Application Software

Designed to perform a specific task or set of tasks.
Can be desktop software (e.g., browser, Office suite) or enterprise software (e.g., ERP, CRM).

Cloud Computing

Practice of using a network of remote servers to store, manage, and process data.
Advantages: cost savings, speedy delivery, scalability, employee mobility, and reduced IT staff.
Disadvantages: disruption in internet service, security issues, and unreliability of service providers.

Software as a Service (SaaS)

Software that is rented rather than purchased.
Subscription-based, provides access to a large assortment of software packages without hardware or installation.

Open Source Software

Software where the source code is available for anyone to copy and use.
Advantages: free, source code available, and community-driven development.
Disadvantages: technical support not available, user interface may be challenging.

Software Creation

Developed through programming, which is the process of creating a set of logical instructions.
Programming languages: Java, Visual C, C++, Python, etc.

Virtualization

Process of using software to simulate a computer or device.
Reduces the number of physical servers needed, reducing electricity consumption and cooling needs.

Private Cloud

A distinct and secure cloud-based environment for a specific client.
Provides control over data and applications while still benefiting from cloud computing.

Mobile Software

Programs that run on tablet computers and smartphones.
Examples: iOS, Android, and mobile applications.

Obtaining Software

Can be developed internally (proprietary software) or purchased off-the-shelf (packaged software).
Advantages and disadvantages of each approach: proprietary software provides control and customization, while off-the-shelf software is more cost-effective and widely available.

Software Ownership

When you purchase software, you are technically just being given a license to use it.
License agreements often include limitations on usage and liability.

Key Terms

Android, Application Software, Cloud Computing, Collaborative Systems, Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Database Management System (DBMS), Desktop Software, Enterprise Resources Planning (ERP), Enterprise Software, iOS, LINUX/UNIX, Mobile Applications, Open Source, Operating Systems, Private Cloud, Productivity Software, SAP, Software as a Service (SaaS), Software, Virtualization, Windows

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Description

This quiz covers the basics of software and computer systems, including its primary functions, characteristics, and benefits. Test your knowledge of software and its role in computer systems.