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GE Elect 1 - Software Module

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14 views3 pages

GE Elect 1 - Software Module

Uploaded by

Mary Jane Pagay
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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BATO INSTITUTE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY, INC.

Dolho, Bato, Leyte


TEACHERS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

GE ELECT 1 – LIVING IN THE I.T. ERA

MODULE 3: UNDERSTANDING SOFTWARE IN INFORMATION SYSTEMS

Introduction

In today’s digital world, software is the backbone of nearly every activity, from personal tasks to complex
business processes. Understanding the different types of software and how they function is essential for anyone
involved in the field of Information Systems. This module will guide you through the two primary categories
of software, the role of Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software in organizations, and the concept of
cloud computing, along with its advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, you will learn about utility
software, programming software, and the benefits of open-source software.

Intended Learning Outcome (ILO)

By the end of this module, students will be able to classify and describe the different types of software,
explain the role of ERP systems and cloud computing in organizations, and assess the benefits and
challenges of open-source software.

1. Types of Software

Software can be broadly categorized into two primary types: Operating Systems and Application Software.

1. Operating Systems (OS):


o The operating system is the most fundamental type of software. It manages the computer's
hardware, software resources, and provides common services for computer programs.
o Examples:
▪ Windows: A popular operating system used in personal computers.
▪ macOS: The operating system used in Apple’s desktop and laptop computers.
▪ Linux: An open-source operating system often used in servers and desktops.
2. Application Software:
o Application software refers to programs designed to perform specific tasks for the user. Unlike
the operating system, which manages all the hardware and software on a computer, application
software focuses on particular user tasks.
o Examples:
▪ Microsoft Office Suite: Includes applications like Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for
document creation and management.
▪ Adobe Photoshop: A widely used software for graphic design and image editing.
▪ Web Browsers (e.g., Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox): Used for accessing and
navigating the internet.

2. Utility Software and Programming Software

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Beyond operating systems and applications, two other critical categories of software are utility software and
programming software.

1. Utility Software:
o Utility software helps in managing, maintaining, and controlling computer resources. These
programs are essential for optimizing the performance and security of a computer system.
o Examples:
▪ Antivirus Programs: Protect computers from malware and other security threats.
▪ Disk Management Tools: Help manage disk space and optimize disk usage.
2. Programming Software:
o Programming software provides tools that developers use to create, debug, maintain, or
otherwise support other software programs and applications.
o Examples:
▪ Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) like Visual Studio: Provide a
comprehensive environment for writing and testing code.
▪ Compilers: Convert code written in programming languages into a form that can be
executed by a computer.

3. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software plays a crucial role in organizations by integrating various
business processes into a single, unified system. This type of software allows different departments to
communicate and share information more effectively.

1. Role of ERP in Organizations:


o ERP systems streamline business processes and improve the efficiency of operations by
integrating core functions such as finance, human resources, procurement, and supply chain
management.
o Examples:
▪ SAP: A leading ERP software that provides solutions for all types of business processes.
▪ Oracle ERP: Another major ERP software offering extensive functionalities for
managing business operations.
2. Key Components of ERP Systems:
o Customer Relationship Management (CRM): Helps businesses manage their interactions with
current and potential customers. It centralizes customer information, tracks sales, and manages
customer service issues.
o Supply Chain Management (SCM): Manages the flow of goods, information, and finances as
they move from supplier to manufacturer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer.
o Mobile Applications: Many ERP systems now offer mobile apps, allowing users to access and
manage ERP functions on the go, enhancing productivity and decision-making.

4. Cloud Computing

Cloud computing has revolutionized how software and services are delivered and consumed. It refers to the
delivery of computing services—including servers, storage, databases, networking, software, and analytics—
over the internet (“the cloud”).

1. What is Cloud Computing?


o Cloud computing allows users to access and store data and applications on remote servers rather
than on local devices or on-premises servers. This provides flexibility, scalability, and the
ability to work from anywhere with an internet connection.
2. Advantages of Cloud Computing:
o Scalability: Easily scale resources up or down based on demand.
o Cost Efficiency: Pay only for the services you use, reducing the need for significant upfront
investments in hardware.

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o Accessibility: Access applications and data from anywhere, on any device with an internet
connection.
3. Disadvantages of Cloud Computing:
o Security Risks: Storing data in the cloud can expose it to security threats like hacking.
o Downtime: Dependence on internet connectivity can lead to downtime if there is a network
issue.
o Limited Control: Users have limited control over the underlying infrastructure that supports
their cloud services.

5. Open-Source Software

Open-source software is software that is released with a license that allows anyone to view, modify, and
distribute the source code.

1. What is Open-Source Software?


o Unlike proprietary software, where the source code is closed to the public, open-source
software is developed collaboratively and made available for free or at a low cost.
2. Examples of Open-Source Software:
o Linux: A widely used open-source operating system.
o Apache: A popular open-source web server software.
3. Benefits of Open-Source Software:
o Customization: Users can modify the software to meet their specific needs.
o Cost-Effective: Often available for free, reducing the cost of software licensing.
o Community Support: Supported by a community of developers who contribute to its
improvement and security.

References

• Laudon, K. C., & Laudon, J. P. (2020). Management Information Systems: Managing the Digital Firm
(16th ed.). Pearson.
• O'Brien, J. A., & Marakas, G. M. (2011). Introduction to Information Systems (15th ed.). McGraw-
Hill/Irwin.
• Baltzan, P. (2022). Business Driven Information Systems (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
• Valacich, J., & Schneider, C. (2022). Information Systems Today: Managing in the Digital World (10th
ed.). Pearson.
• Turban, E., Sharda, R., & Delen, D. (2022). Decision Support and Business Intelligence Systems (10th
ed.). Pearson.
• Kumar, S. (2021). Cloud Computing and Data Science (2nd ed.). Springer.

Prepared by:

MARY JANE PAGAY-CIERVA, LPT, MSIT


Instructor

MJ Pagay-Cierva Property

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