The document outlines various types of software, including application software, which can be general-purpose (off-the-shelf) or special-purpose (designed for specific tasks). It also discusses bespoke software tailored to unique user needs, highlighting their respective advantages and disadvantages. Additionally, it notes the existence of system software types such as library programs, utility programs, and operating systems.

1. Computer Science
(A Level)
Software

2. Programs that perform specific tasks
(Definitions)
Designed to do one or two tasks very
well and nothing else
e.g. compress a file and save it

3. Programs, data, code or resources that
can be called by other programs
(Definitions)
Software that converts programming
languages into machine code (0s and
1s)

4. Application Software
There are different types of application software's that perform different tasks
General – Purpose
Software
Special – Purpose
Software
Bespoke
Software

5. General - Purpose Software
• This is sometimes known as “Off-The-Shelf” software
• It provides many features that the user will want and
features the user may never use
Advantages
• Cheap
• Easily available
• Thoroughly tested
• Lots of user support
Examples
• Word Processors
• Spreadsheets
• Graphics application

6. Special - Purpose Software
• It is used to complete specific tasks and may be
specially made for a company
Examples
• CCTV
• ATM
• Monitoring System

7. Bespoke Software
• Software system is designed and developed specifically
for them
• Also known as “Tailor - Made”
Advantages
• Exact software
• Suit needs
Disadvantages
• Expensive
• Long time to develop
• May need to employ a large
team
• Little user support

8. System Software
There are different types of system software's that are used for different
purposes
Library
Programs
Utility
Programs
Operating
System