SSS 1 COMPUTER STUDIES

COMPUTER APPLICATION SOFTWARE

Lesson Objectives

1. Remember: Define computer application software and list its types and categories with examples.
2. Understand: Explain the purpose of application software and how it is used to enhance productivity.
3. Apply: Match specific tasks to the correct category of application software.
4. Analyze: Differentiate between user application development programs and application packages
5. Evaluate: Assess the impact of application software in specialized fields, such as education, healthcare,
and business.

Computer application software are programs that enable the computer user to perform specific tasks as well as
improve productivity by manipulating text, graphics and numbers. They allow users to perform specific tasks such
as creating letters, preparing budgets, managing inventory, playing games, watching videos, scheduling
appointments, editing images, chatting, communicating, etc. using a computer.

TYPES OF APPLICATION SOFTWARE

1. User application development programs

APPLICATION PACKAGES

These are ready-made, off-the-shelf software packages that perform generalized function and are produced for
the use of the general public. These packages are equipped with essential tools and technology to enhance user
productivity.

CATEGORIES OF APPLICATION PACKAGES

1. Word Processors – Allow a user to create, edit, and format documents. E.g. MS Word, Google Docs, Corel
WordPerfect, Apple iWork pages, etc.
2. Spreadsheet – Provides a matrix of cells for numerical information to be manipulated according to in-
built or user-defined formulae. E.g. MS Excel, Google Sheet, Apple Numbers, Lotus 123, etc.
3. Graphics packages – To typeset, draw and manipulate graphical objects. E.g. MS Paint, CorelDraw, Canva,
Adobe Photoshop, Havard Graphicsetc.
4. Database Package – Used to record and manipulate data about people, places or things as well as
manage reports of all types. E.g. MS Access, MySQL, SQL Server, Oracle, FoxPro, Sybase, dBase III / IV, etc.
5. Educational Packages – Help in handling a variety of learning and tutoring tasks. E.g. TestDriller, Google
Classroom, Duolingo, Edmondo, etc.
6. Multimedia Packages – Used to handle a variety of media such as images, audio and video. They are used
for video editing, animation, graphics, and image editing. E.g. VLC media player, cap cut, Windows media
player, Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Windows movie maker, Picasa etc.
7. Web Browsers - Web browsers help us browse the internet. They help the user retrieve data across the
web. E.g. Safari, Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Microsoft edge, Phoenix browser, UC browser, etc.
8. Presentation Packages – These are used to present information to a large audience. E.g. MS PowerPoint,
Apple iWork Keynote, Lotus freelance, etc.
9. Communication Packages – These are used to interact with other users. E.g. WhatsApp, Skype, Zoom,
Facebook, Telegram, etc.
10. Entertainment Packages – The are for relaxation and enjoyment. E.g. Chess, Monopoly, Ayo, Scrabble,
etc.

MRS ADOGIE - POWERFIELDS GROUP OF SCHOOLS [COLLEGE], EGBIN

USER APPLICATION DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMS

These are customized / bespoke software written to meet the specific requirement of an individual or
organization. They are developed in-house by the user or the IT staff of an organization or by companies
specializing in software development. They are tailored to perform specific function for the user such as
administration, payroll, inventory, etc.

Various programming languages such as Python, C++, JAVA, etc. can be used for the development of these
programs. The choice of the programming language to use depends on:

➢ The knowledge and skill of the programmer

PACKAGES FOR SPECIALISED AREAS

These are specialized software packages that are tailored to specific areas and cater to the unique needs of their
respective industries They optimize processes, and enable professionals to work more effectively.

1. Accounting Software: Accounting software assists businesses and individuals in managing financial
transactions. They streamline tasks like invoicing, expense tracking, and budgeting. Examples are
QuickBooks, Tally, and FreshBooks.
2. Government: For administration and law enforcement e.g. Oracle, GovPilot, etc.
3. Science: For statistics, modeling and data analysis e.g. mathematical and statistical software (SPSS)
4. Payroll Programs: Payroll software simplifies the process of managing employee compensation. Examples
are Gusto, and Paychex.
5. Banking Software: Banking software is used to manage operations such as customer accounts,
transactions, loans, etc. Examples are: Flexcube, T24, Finacle, and Temenos, etc.
6. Point of Sale (POS) Software: POS software is used in retail environments to manage sales transactions,
inventory, and customer data. Examples include Square, Shopify, and Lightspeed.
7. Healthcare Software: Healthcare applications help medical professionals manage patient records,
appointments, billing, and other medical-related tasks. Examples are: Electronic Health Record (EHR) and
Practice Management Software (PMS).
8. Educational Software: Educational software supports learning and training by offering interactive
lessons, simulations, and assessments. Examples are: Duolingo, Moodle, etc.
9. Graphic Design Software: Graphic design tools enable artists and designers to create visual content,
illustrations, and multimedia presentations. Examples are: Adobe Creative Cloud, CorelDRAW, and Canva.
10. Engineering: For design and manufacturing. E.g. CAD and CAM Software: Computer-Aided Design (CAD)
software is employed by engineers and designers to create detailed 2D and 3D models of products.
Computer-Aided Manufacturing (CAM) software then translates these designs into instructions for
manufacturing machinery.
11. Video Editing Software: Video editing software allows professionals and enthusiasts to edit and enhance
video content. Examples are: Adobe Premiere Pro, iMovie, Lightworks, etc.
12. Gaming Software: Game development tools assist in designing, programming, and testing video games.
Examples are Unity, Stencyl, Unreal Engine, etc.
13. Communication: Google Meet, Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Gmail, etc.
14. Libraries: Cataloging databases, automated book checking system. Examples are: DSpace, Koha, SliMs,
etc.

MRS ADOGIE - POWERFIELDS GROUP OF SCHOOLS [COLLEGE], EGBIN