INTRODUCTION

Application software, often referred to simply as "apps" or "software applications,"

is a type of computer program designed to perform specific tasks for end-users.
Unlike system software, which is essential for the operation of computer hardware
and provides a platform for running application software, application software is
developed to meet the needs of users and perform various functions.
Definition of Application software
These are programs written by computer experts for the purpose of solving
particular problem. They present flexible working environment for the user. Some
come in a complete set of suite of programs with its documentation covering a
particular area of application. Application Software is a software that applies to the
real life application. Application software is any program designed to produce a
machine to human function/interface such as Word Processing, Spreadsheet
construction, video production, audio production, games, database management
systems, etc.
Here are some common types of application software
Word Processors: Programs like Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or LibreOffice
Writer are examples of word processing software. They are used for creating,
editing, and formatting text documents.
Spreadsheets: Applications like Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, or LibreOffice
Calc are used for creating and manipulating spreadsheets. They are often employed
for tasks involving calculations, data analysis, and financial modeling.
Web Browsers: Software like Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, or Microsoft Edge
allows users to access and navigate the internet, view websites, and interact with
online content.
Email Clients: Applications such as Microsoft Outlook, Mozilla Thunderbird, or
Apple Mail are used for managing and sending emails.
Graphics and Multimedia Software: Programs like Adobe Photoshop (for image
editing), Adobe Premiere (for video editing), or Audacity (for audio editing) fall
into this category.
Database Software: Examples include Microsoft Access, MySQL, or Oracle
Database. These applications are used for creating, managing, and manipulating
databases.
Presentation Software: Tools like Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, or Apple
Keynote are used for creating and delivering presentations.
Utilities: These are programs designed to assist in the management and
optimization of computer resources. Examples include antivirus software, disk
cleanup tools, and system optimization utilities.
Games: Video games and computer games fall into the category of application
software. They are created for entertainment purposes and often involve user
interaction.
Productivity Software: This includes a wide range of tools designed to enhance
productivity, such as project management software, collaboration tools, and note-
taking applications.
Conceptual clarification
Word Processing Packages- These packages are developed to help users produce
documents such as letters, memos, articles, reports, projects, and with some
graphics capabilities included. Examples of word processing packages are
WordPerfect, Microsoft word, Word Star, Notepad, WordPad, etc.
Spreadsheet: package - Designed to enable user solve problem which involves
calculations analysis, design and charts. Usually having rows and columns such
that it looks like an accountant’s records book, statistical analysis and business
costs
Graphic packages:- designed to meet need of artist, graphic designers and other
professionals who are in the design industry e.g. CorelDraw, , Instant Artist, Print
master..
Desktop Publishing Package- These are packages used for book publishing and
calendars as they contain facilities and tools needed for the job. Eg. Ventura
Publisher, Microsoft Publisher, Adobe Page Maker, etc.
Presentation Packages; They are designed for presentation with fully loaded
animation facilities. Examples are Microsoft PowerPoint, Corel Presentation, Lotus
Freelance Graphics, etc.
Database Packages. They are packages used for storage of large volume of data
that are similar and related, for easy access, and other manipulations Eg. Dbase for
Windows, Paradox, Oracle, Foxpro, and Microsoft Access,
Computer Aided Learning/Instruction- These are packages that contained bundled
knowledge that users can use to learn on their own, an example is Typing
Tutor/Master that teaches a user how to type.
General Considerations for Choosing a Software
Generally, however, there are key aspects that you need to consider when looking
for any type of software. These include:
Features Fit. Libraries typically offer the same kind of services. However, not all
libraries are run the same. They have different publics and different usage shares.
Hence, for some, certain software features will be more important than others. For
others, they can really do away with such features. So, if you are shopping for a
platform, choose the one with the right amount of features that fits your needs. As
a rule of thumb, excess always costs more.
Ease-of-Use. What good is a software solution when it is very unwieldy? Well,
just a little. But that is not enough. Library management today is held to a high
standard, especially because of the hybrid ways of interaction (i.e, in-facility and
online). To achieve optimum results in managing these two dimensions, users are
better off with a platform that is not only easy to use but also enjoyable to use. This
is because having a hybrid operation is more record-keeping-heavy.

Deployment. Library management platforms started out as on-premise solutions.

Today, however, electronic library systems can come as web-based software tools.
Integrations. Organizations today are right to look for software products that can
integrate with each other. This is to provide management with 360-degree
visibility, complete with drill-down capabilities. In this way, they will be able to
base their decisions on real-time data.
Mobile-Ready. As most people access digital information via their mobile devices,
it is best that your front-facing portals are optimized for mobile. You may also
choose solutions or additional ones that can help you translate your on-premise
search experience into a great mobile experience.
Support. It is important for end-users to receive ample support from software
providers. This is especially so in setting up or updating the system. It is also best
to choose a software provider that is proactive when it comes to improving
features, capabilities, and ease of use.
Some Library Management Software
CodeAchi Library Management System: A Go-To System for Public, Academic,
and School Libraries
CodeAchi Library Management System (LMS) is one of the most sought-after
platforms on the market today. It is known for packing its comprehensive features
in an easy-to-use highly-visual interface. Because of this, it is popular among
public libraries, schools, colleges, and universities around the world. Key features
range from an OPAC (Online Public Access Catalog) to an automatic reports
generator.
Aside from this, the software provider is also known to provide stellar customer
service. Also, it is prized for its automatic fine calculation module with automatic
SMS borrower notifications through emails and SMS. Also, the software has a 30-
day free trial version for users to try out the features and interface for themselves.
Lastly, it has multisystem support. Hence, users can connect it with other library
management tools and databases.
WorldShare Management Services:
WorldShare Management Services (WMS) is a unique cloud-based library
management platform that leverages cooperation between clients and the software
provider to create a system that fits their needs perfectly. WMS lets subscribers
define their own success such as design and KPIs, then provides them with tailor-
made solutions. The company is also known for allowing clients to train in their
custom system in a sandbox environment before going live.
CONCLUSION
Application software can be categorized based on its functionality and purpose,
and users can choose from a variety of options depending on their specific needs.
Developers create application software to address diverse requirements, making
computing more versatile and user-friendly.
REFERENCES
Lucas, H.C. (Jr.) (1986). Introduction to Computer and Information System, New
York: Macmillan. McGraucen, D.D.A. (1972). Guide to FORTRAN IV
Programming. New York: John Wiley and Sons Incorporated.
McLeond. R. (1998). Introduction to Information Systems — A Problem-solving
Approaching, Chicago: Science Research Associates, Incorporated.
Obasogie. D.C. (1998). Fundamental of Digital and Analogue Computer Design,
Warn: Merit Publishers. Oladipupo and llaboya (2006). Information
Processing System (Theory and Practice), Benin City: Mindex Publishing.
Philip, L. (1996). Great Papers in Computer Science, West Publishing Company.
Radlow, R. (1986). Computers and the Information Society, New York: McGraw-
Hill Book Company, pp. 456.
Starkey, J.D. (1984). Fundamental Programming, West Publishing Company.
Stella E.F and Egbokhare, G.E. (2004). Data processing and Management
Information System. Ardix Publishers.