Module ICT204

- Software: Nature and Limitations examines the types of software used by a modern business and looks at the implications of using off the shelf software.

The module is split into a number of sections which are intended to be used for reading prior to attempting the assessment questions provided. Additional items of research are provided to give background information from other sources such as books and related Internet sites.

Syllabus Content:

2.4 Software; nature, capabilities and limitations

Describe the need for interfacing with peripherals, storage devices, input and output devices and display devices; describe the need for printer and other peripheral drivers.

Nature and types of software

• Describe the distinction between systems software and applications software; the purposes of operating systems.
• Describe the nature of package software, generic and specific, and of bespoke software. Describe the general characteristics of generic packages and the integration of objects and facilities for processing data protocols and standards.
• Describe the functionality offered by software which provides access to the internet.

Capabilities of Software

Describe the desirable features of packages that would be appropriate to particular users and activities such as: links to other packages; search facilities; macro capabilities; application generators; editing capabilities; ability to change or extend data and record structures; short access times; data portability and upgrade paths.

• Upgradability
  • Explain the technical and human implications of package change/upgrade.
• Reliability
  • Explain the difficulties of thoroughly testing complex software.

Module Content:

1. Nature and types of software
2. Capabilities of software
3. Upgradeability and reliability
4. System Software
5. Questions

Additional Information:

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