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Chapter 6 - Utility and Application Software - Coggle Diagram
Chapter 6 - Utility and Application Software
Utility Software
Purpose
Utility Software is a system software designed to optimise computer performance and perform automated tasks.
Features and Uses
Disk Defragmentation:
a utility program that reorganises a hard disk so split files will be recombined into sequential blocks.
Makes reading a file quicker
Optimize Drives
(newer version of Disk Defrag.) can be set up automatically, but can still be done manually.
Virus Checker:
checks hard drive for viruses and removes them.
Depending on the level of protection offered, emails and internet downloads will also be checked
Compression Software
: compresses computer files
Compressed files are quicker transmitted over the internet
Factors affecting choice, use and performance
Performance:
software must be adequate to handle user needs. Some utilities have an negative effect on the computer system
Cost:
software may either come included with the operating system package or may need to be paid via a subscription.
Security:
if confidential data is involved, a high security software will be needed
Application Software
Purpose
Application Software is what allows the end user of an IT System perform tasks
Features and Uses
General-Purpose Software:
can be used for multiple purposes
word-processor, spreadsheet, graphics package
Special-Purpose Software:
performs a single specific task/set of tasks
payroll, hotel booking systems, fingerprint scanning systems, browser systems
can either be bought 'off-the-shelf' or 'bespoke'
Factors affecting choice, use and performance
Documentation:
a well-documented package will help to make the most of its facilities
Support:
manufacturers may provide a free or paid support line
Training:
courses delivered by manufacturer or third-party
Site Licensing:
if multiple copies are needed
Functionality:
does it provide sufficient functionality
'Off-the-shelf' vs 'Bespoke'
Bespoke
More costly & requires expertise to analyse and document requirements
Features are customised to user requirements
May take longer to develop
May contain errors
Off-the-shelf
Less expensive as cost is shared with other people purchasing the package
May contain unwanted and unneeded features
Immediately ready to install
Well documented, tested and error-free
Computer Software
Open Source vs Proprietary software
Open Source:
governed by the Open Source Initiative
Anyone can modify: distributed with source code
Developers can sell their software
Licensed for use with no charge
New software must be distributed and sold in a form that can be edited by anyone
Proprietary Software:
sold in the form of a license
No restrictions on use
Developer will hold copyright. Users do not have access to the source code and cannot edit
Regular updates
Impacts and features of user interfaces in computer software
Clear
Concise
Responsive
Consistent
Attractive
File types and formats
Features of common file types and formats
Images:
The computer stores data about each pixel that makes up the image
Bitmap
-
.bmp
Uncompressed still image
PNG*
-
.png
Lossless; Enables transparent background
JPEG
-
.jpg
Lossy
GIF
-
.gif
Lossless; ideal for web graphics
Video
MPEG 4
-
.mpg
Lossy; suitable for small low-res sequences
MOV
-
.mov
Lossy; playing back movies with sound
Implications of the use and selection of file types
Compatability:
different devices accept different file formats
Portability:
data may need to be read and interpreted by different programs
File Size:
could be time consuming to transmit a large image over the internet
Future Proofing:
files that need to remain readable for years in the future need to be saved in a standard format
Non-Proprietary, Open Specs:
save files in a compatible format