APPLICATION SOFTWARE

CUSTOM SOFTWARE

DEFINITION: Custom software (also known as Bespoke software) is a type of software that is developed either for a specific organization or function that differs from or is opposite of other already available software (also called off-the-shelf or COTSsoftware). It is generally not targeted to the mass market, but usually created for companies, business entities, and organizations. Custom software is also when companies or governments pay for customized software for budget or project managing.

Examples of bespoke software include commercial products such as commercial websites, business databases and software for governments. Non-commercial custom software development is common in academic and open source circles.

Complex custom software can be developed on an increasingly small scale through the rise of rapid application development frameworks. This means that smaller companies, charities or even individuals are able to benefit from complex software based on pre-built building blocks which are then customised to suit.


PACKAGE SOFTWARE
DEFINITION: software package: A package that consists of (a) one or more computer programs and possibly related material such as utility programs or tutorial programs, recorded on a medium suitable for delivery to the user, and from which the user can transfer the program(s) to a data-processing device, and (b) instructional materials such as handbooks and manuals, update information, and possibly support services information. Note 1: The computer programs may consist, for example, of application programs or operating systems, and are usually written in a high-level or low-level language, respectively. Note 2: The recording medium is usually a magnetic diskette or an optical compact disk.


SHAWARE

DEFINITION: Shareware distribution gives users a chance to try software before buying it. If you try a Shareware program and continue using it after a reasonable evaluation period, you are expected to register. Individual programs differ on details -- some request registration while others require it, some specify a maximum trial period. With registration, you get anything from the simple right to continue using the software to an updated program with printed manual.
Shareware is a distribution method, not a type of software. You should find software that suits your needs and pocketbook, whether it is commercial or Shareware. The Shareware system makes fitting your needs easier, because you can try before you buy. And because the overhead is low, prices are low also. Shareware has the ultimate money-back guarantee -- if you don't use the product, you don't pay for it.



FREEWARE

DEFINITION: Like shareware, freeware is software you can download, pass around, and distribute without any initial payment. However, the great part about freeware is that you never have to pay for it. No 30 day limit, no demo versions, no disabled features -- it's totally free. Things like minor program updates and small games are commonly distributed as freeware. Though freeware does not cost anything, it is still copyrighted, so other people can't market the software as their own.


PUBLIC DOMAIN SOFTWARE

DEFINITION: Programs that are uncopyrighted because their authors intended to share them with everyone else are in the public domain. The UNIX community has developed a number of such programs over the years. Programs in the public domain can be used without restriction as components of other programs. When reusing such code, it is good to understand its history so that you can be sure it really is in the public