by Matthew Adams

Created on: February 24, 2009   Last Updated: March 09, 2010

Application software refers to software with a more specific function, software that is not especially generic. There is a number of application software, which is often sold as part of a software suite. Here are some good examples of application software.

Word Processor:

The word processor is one of the most widely used software applications. MS Word, or any other, allows user to produce text-based files like letters, reports, dissertation etc. Likewise, the more advanced do have a little flexibility and also offer some drawing features, like clip art, to include within your document.

Desktop Publisher:

The desktop publisher is a progression on from the word processor and is more flexible. It is used for producing publications, as opposed to more basic text files. For example, with its range of templates and features you can produce gift cards, newsletters, brochure, web pages and postcards. Such documents, that word processor is not ideal for, with a deal more art options and templates.

Spreadsheets:

Spreadsheets are one the of the most useful applications available. They deal with numbers,and produce spreadsheet files. Spreadsheets like Excel provide a variety of basic and more advanced numerical functions, in addition to spreadsheet formatting and presentation features such as graphs. Using templates, you can produce cash-flow statements, budgets, or even simple databases - but it is not ideal for this.

Databases:

Database application software, like Access, has become increasingly widely used. It is specifically a database package, allowing for users to set up relational databases, along with menus and queries, and then input records. They can also produce database reports, for output. Overall, now widely used for database management.

Presentation software:

This is used for presentations. Software like Power Point has a variety of presentation features, which allow users to produce slide-shows with lots of effects.

Web Publishing:

Previously, desktop publishing software was used for this and still can be. However, web publishing software is more specialist and provides more advanced features for producing and uploading websites.

The above, while being more specific themselves, cover a range of application software and often form part of a software suite package like MS Works. They are sometimes referred to as office software. However, they are also good for personal use.

Do not confuse application software with utility software. Utility software refers to system tools for maintenance issues like disk clean ups and virus software. Application software does not do this.

Overall, application software packages are amongst the most used software category available. Be it for business or personal use, it is good software.

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