Installation Software and Application
Installation Software and Application
Installation Software and Application
INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY
SUPPORT SERVICE
Level - I
LEARNING GUIDE – 30
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
Document and report client requirements to appropriate person in accordance with the
workplace standard.
Act on instructions to meet client requirements in line with organizational requirements.
Learning Instructions:
1. Read the specific objectives of this Learning Guide.
2. Follow the instructions described below in page _2_.
3. Read the information written in the information “Sheet 1 and Sheet 2,” in page -3-, and -13
respectively.
4. Accomplish the “Self-check 1 and Self-check 2,” in page -4- and -18- respectively
5. If you earned a satisfactory evaluation from the “Self-check 1” proceed to “Operation Sheet
2,” in page -13-.
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
Computer software is a collection of computer programs and related data that provide the
instructions for telling a computer what to do and how to do it.
In other words, software is a conceptual entity which is a set of computer programs, procedures,
and associated documentation concerned with the operation of a data processing system.
We can also say software refers to one or more computer programs and data held in the storage
of the computer for some purposes. In other words software is a set of programs, procedures,
algorithms and its documentation.
Computer software has facilitated the interaction between human beings and computers. What are
the different kinds of software?
Software refers to the computer programs, procedures and documentation that perform certain
tasks on a computer system. Following is an extensive list of examples of the different kinds of
software.
Application Software: Application software is that, which is designed for the end-users
and hence known as end-user programs. It employs the capabilities of a computer to
execute the tasks that the user wishes to perform on a computer system. Look at the
various examples of application software.
Educational Software: They are used to deliver tests and track progress. They are used
for educational purposes. Training management and classroom management software are
some examples of educational software. The software used for purposes of edutainment, a
form of entertainment that aims at educating the masses, is also a form of educational
software.
Enterprise Software: It caters to the needs of organization processes and data flow.
Customer relationship management and supply chain management software are the well-
known examples of enterprise software. Enterprise infrastructure software supports the
enterprise software systems.
Information Worker Software: It caters to the needs of an individual to manage
information pertaining to a project or a single department. Resource management software
and documentation tools are some of the popularly used information worker software.
Media Development Software: They are used for the generation of print and electronic
media in the educational and commercial sector. Image organizers and image editing
software, animation software like Flash, audio and video editors as well as the web
development software are some well-known examples of media development software.
Product Engineering Software: This software is used in the development of hardware and
software products. Application programming interfaces and integrated development
environments are the well-known examples of product engineering software. Program
testing tools, debuggers, compilers and CAD are some of the other instances of product
engineering software.
Simulation Software: They are used for the simulation of physical and abstract systems.
Computer simulators that are used for simulating scientific concepts and social ideas,
battlefield, vehicle and flight simulators are some of the popular examples of simulation
software.
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
Programming Software: Programming Languages are used to write programs that control
the functioning of a computer system. They are the building blocks of computer
applications. Go through the complete list of the different programming languages.
System Software: It is computer software that manages and controls hardware in order to
enable application software to perform its tasks. System software performs the functions
like transferring data from memory to the disk or delivering text onto a display device.
Device Drivers: They are computer programs, which facilitate the interaction of high-level
computer programs with the hardware devices. Drivers also provide interrupt-handling
mechanisms.
Network Managers: They check computer networks, data transfers and log events.
Virus Scanners: They scan for viruses on a computer system. They are widely known as
antivirus software.
Content-Control Software: It refers to the software designed for controlling the content
that is permitted for the user to access. It can determine what content will be available on a
particular machine or network. Content-control software is commonly used at homes and in
schools to restrict the content that can be accessed over the net by the students.
Data Recovery Software: Apart from the facilities of copying of data files, data recovery
software supports the user needs of backing up important computer data. It allows the user
to specify what is to be backed up and when.
1.1.1. Types of Computer Software
The two major types the computer software
System Software: It helps in running the computer hardware and the computer
system. System software is a collection of operating systems; device drivers,
servers, windowing systems and utilities. System software helps an application
programmer in abstracting away from hardware, memory and other internal
complexities of a computer.
Application Software: It enables the end users to accomplish certain specific tasks.
Business software, databases and educational software are some forms of
application software. Different word processors, which are dedicated for specialized
tasks to be performed by the user, are other examples of application software.
1.1.2. Types of Application Software
What is application software? What are the different types of application software? Know it
all along with some interesting examples of application software.
Application software utilizes the capacities of a computer directly to a dedicated task.
Application software is able to manipulate text, numbers and graphics. It can be in the form
of software focused on a certain single task like word processing, spreadsheet or playing of
audio and video files.
Different Types of Application Software are:
Word Processing Software:
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
This software enables the users to create and edit documents. The most popular
examples of this type of software are MS-Word, WordPad, Notepad and some other text
editors.
Database Software:
Database is a structured collection of data. A computer database relies on database
software to organize the data and enable the database users to achieve database
operations. Database software allows the users to store and retrieve data from
databases. Examples are Oracle, MS Access, etc.
Spreadsheet Software:
Spreadsheet software allows users to perform calculations. They simulate paper
worksheets by displaying multiple cells that make up a grid. Excel, Lotus 1-2-3 and
Apple Numbers are some examples of spreadsheet software.
Multimedia Software:
They allow the users to create and play audio and video media. They are capable of
playing media files. Audio converters, players, burners, video encoders and decoders
are some forms of multimedia software. Examples of this type of software include Real
Player and Media Player.
Presentation Software:
The software that is used to display information in the form of a slide show is known as
presentation software. This type of software includes three functions, namely, editing
that allows insertion and formatting of text, methods to include graphics in the text and a
functionality of executing the slide shows. Microsoft PowerPoint is the best example of
presentation software.
1.2. System Requirements for Software Installation
To be used efficiently, all computer software needs certain hardware components or other
software resources to be present on a computer. These pre-requisites are known as system
requirements and are often used as a guideline as opposed to an absolute rule. Most software
defines two sets of system requirements: minimum and recommended.
Minimum specifications are the absolute minimum requirements for hardware you should
have in your system in order to install and run the OS you have chosen.
Recommended hardware specifications are what you should have in your system to
realize usable performance.
Always try to have the recommended hardware (or better) in your system. If you don’t, you
may have to upgrade your hardware before you upgrade your OS.
Make sure you have a good margin between your system’s performance and the minimum
requirements.
Always run Windows on more hardware, rather than less!
Recommended requirements are almost always of a significantly higher level than the
minimum requirements, and represent the ideal situation in which to run the software.
Generally speaking this is a better guideline than minimum system requirements in order to
have a fully usable and enjoyable experience with software.
1.2.1. Hardware Requirements
The most common set of requirements defined by any operating system or software
application is the physical computer resources, also known as hardware. A hardware
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
These requirements or pre-requisites are generally not included in the software installation
package and need to be installed separately before the software is installed.
Platform
In computing, a platform describes some sort of framework, either in hardware or
software, which allows software to run. Typical platforms include a computer's
architecture, operating system, or programming languages and their runtime libraries.
Operating system is one of the first requirements mentioned when defining system
requirements (software). Software may not be compatible with different versions of
same line of operating systems, although some measure of backward compatibility is
often maintained. For example, most software designed for Microsoft Windows XP does
not run on Microsoft Windows 98, although the converse is not always true.
APIs and Drivers
Software making extensive use of special hardware devices, like high-end display
adapters, needs special API or newer device drivers. A good example is DirectX, which
is a collection of APIs for handling tasks related to multimedia, especially game
programming, on Microsoft platforms.
Web Browser
Most web applications and software depending heavily on Internet technologies make
use of the default browser installed on system. Microsoft Internet Explorer is a frequent
choice of software running on Microsoft Windows, which makes use of ActiveX controls,
despite their vulnerabilities.
1.2.3. Other Requirements
Some software also has other requirements for proper performance. Internet connection
(type and speed) and resolution of the display screen are notable examples.
1.3. System Requirement to Install Operating System
These are the minimum requirements for basic functionality. Actual requirements vary, depending
on the system configuration and the programs and features that you choose to install. In installing
new software, it is necessary to know its hardware requirements before installing. You can check
from the manufacturer, the accompanied read me file or on the web. Here are some hardware
requirements for some common operating system software:
The System Requirements for Windows XP
Pentium 233-megahertz (MHz) processor or faster (300 MHz is recommended)
At least 64 Megabytes (MB) of RAM (128 MB is recommended)
At least 1.5 Gigabytes (GB) of available space on the hard disk
CD-ROM or DVD-ROM drive
Keyboard and a Microsoft Mouse or some other compatible pointing device
Video adapter and monitor with Super VGA (800 x 600) or higher resolution
Sound card
Speakers or headphones
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
Self-Check – 1 Test
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PRINCIPAL’S HEALTH AND BUSINESS COLLEGE
Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Use the Answer sheet provided in the next
page:
_____ 1.What is the recommended requirement of Processor (CPU) for installing Windows 7?
A. 233 GHz B. 1 GHz C. 233 MHz D. 1 MHz
_____ 2.What is the minimum requirement of Memory (RAM) for installing Windows 7 (32-bit)?
A. 64 MB B. 128 MB C. 1 GB D. 2 GB
_____ 3. Which one of the following is an example of computer software?
A. Educational Software B. Enterprise Software C. Simulation Software D. All
_____ 4. Which one of the following is NOT an example of application software?
A. Word Processor B. Spreadsheet C. Database D. Operating System
_____ 5. Which one of the following is an example of system software?
A. MS Excel B. MS Word C. Operating System D. Media Player
_____ 6. Windows 7 is an example of ___________ software?
A. Device Driver B. Operating System C. Application Software D. Server
Answer Sheet
Score = ___________
Rating: ___________
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Information Sheet 2 Act on instructions to meet client requirements
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requires progress reports, business goals and estimates of resource usage,
costs and completion times. Management must be convinced that their funds
and resources are utilized in the best possible way. This will ensure that the
users will accept the software once it is operational.
The users are adequately trained with the new software before it is installed.
This means that they must be familiar with the software to a level which allows
them to independently use it in their everyday work in order to fulfill their
information needs.
Management Levels
Clients from different levels of management have different interests in software
applications. Strong client support and involvement and wise user decisions are
essential to successful installation and use of software applications. Users should be
involved to different degrees and in different ways depending on the managerial
hierarchy.
Top-level management is involved with:
Providing initiative and support for the installation of new software
The appointment of a supervisor
Ensuring compatibility of the new systems functions and objectives with the
business objectives for the organization
The allocation of resources and approval of budgets
The monitoring of progress by review at major checkpoints
Making decisions from alternatives, making trade-offs and considering relative
costs and benefits
Satisfaction with the system on the part of all other types of users
Ensuring that organizational guidelines on purchasing hardware and software
are followed.
Middle-level management is involved with:
Receipt of regular progress reports so that they can monitor progress and
make decision: to abort or continue
Appointing a contact person to deal with the needs of the vendor
Ensuring that software purchased is of appropriate scope for correct and
detailed support of operations and meets the organization’s guidelines
Advising on managerial requirements that will ultimately assist in effective
decision making
Approving the purchase of software licenses and indicating the account from
which the money will come
Ensuring the smooth integration of manual and automated procedures
Ensuring adequate training and documentation for hands-on users.
Lower-level management is involved with:
Providing relevant information during the data-gathering phases concerned
with the functions that the software application will perform
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Reviewing various user interface designs such as screen forms and reports
Assisting system testing and conducting acceptance testing when requested
to do so
Receiving training when required and reading all appropriate user manuals
Ensuring that the supplied documentation is available and kept up-to-date
Reporting all problems once the system is operational
Making valid suggestions for enhancements and modifications to the new
system.
2.2 Documenting and Reporting
There are many documents that need to be produced and exchanged between
clients and suppliers of software applications. Two important documents that are
exchanged at the initial stages are the Project Request form and the Feasibility
Report. The Project Request form outlines the general requirements of the client.
The Feasibility Report determines if the client's needs can be met. Included in the
Feasibility Report are possible software applications, their costs, benefits and impact
on the organization.
Although the initial request for change may be verbal, it is formalized using a Project
Request form. This is the first official item of documentation that the user must
submit to the organization installing the software. Below is a description and an
example of the Project Request Form.
2.2.1 Project Request Form
Problem Definition
The user defines the nature of the problems and briefly describes aspects
of the current system, for example, that the existing system is not coping
with the daily volume of work. The user may outline the requirements (or a
wish list) for the new system.
The analyst gathers information on the nature of the problems using
various data-gathering techniques, eg interviews, surveys, reports,
procedure manuals and observations.
Business Objectives
This is where the user indicates what the business objectives are. The
system built will have to meet these objectives.
Anticipated Benefits
The user defines what they think the benefits would be if a change in the
terms of software-for example savings in cost/labor/time, improved
customer satisfaction, improved reports to management-were undertaken.
Scope of the System
This section outlines what areas of the business (ie subsystems) will be
affected. Constraints and limitations are also defined here, for example,
budget limits, time frames, legal constraints, environmental constraints,
interfaces to other systems and so on.
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Table: 1 Project Request Form
Project Request Form
Project Title Accounts
Date Completion
1/1/98 1/l/99 Project No. 18/97
Received Date
Description of Problems
Our current system is manual. It is slow and labor intensive. Records are
occasionally lost due to files being misplaced, and totals are often incorrect due to
human error. The system does not allow us to track important accounts payable and
receivable information. For example it is not easy to track outstanding amounts
owed to us, and therefore we are losing money.
Solution Adequacy
90 % of immediate retrieval of accounts information
100 % accuracy in totals and reports
Ability to track outstanding debtors and creditors information
Anticipated Benefits
Records are consistent, accurate and easily retrieved
Timely and informative reports to assist with decision making
Less paperwork and manual calculations
Easier to pinpoint trouble spots, eg overdue accounts
Back-up procedures in place
Improved image with customers and suppliers
Improved staff morale
Scope and Constraints
Accounts payable and receivable systems
Needs to interface to on-line inventory and purchasing subsystems
New system needs to be in place before the year 2001
Person
Requesting:
Feasibility Report
The first purpose of this report is to describe in detail the business and computer
requirements of the client. Secondly, the person or team installing the software will
recommend software and hardware necessary to successfully fulfill the needs of the
client.
This report includes:
System summary-a small paragraph describing what the current system does
Project summary-chief user name, support officer's name, scope, start date,
end date, budget
Current system summary-system description and deficiencies
New software constraints and assumptions-performance requirements,
hardware constraints, software constraints and any interfaces to other
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automated systems, backup and recovery requirements, security and privacy
issues
Performance requirements and acceptance constraints-workload and volume,
system growth, response times, data access and data validation new software
alternatives-description of each alternative
Improvements to the business-improvements in service, increases in income,
reductions in cost
New software impacts-hardware, software, organizational and operational
Installation constraints-in terms of time, budget and resources, and staff
conversion requirements from current to new software o cost/benefit
comparisons of proposed alternative software applications
Detailed activities schedule and budget for installation of software, testing,
conversion and training.
Once the report is completed, the client reviews the findings and alternatives. The
question addressed here is whether one of the proposed software applications
should be installed, or another option investigated. A copy of the report should also
be forwarded to the supervisor. It will be up to the client and the relevant supervisor
as to whether or not you will proceed with the installation of the software.
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Self-Check – 2 Test
Directions: Answer all the questions listed below. Use the Answer sheet provided
in the next page:
_______ 1. The main participants in the installation of new software include:
A. Clients or End-Users C. Supervisor
B. Computer Support Officer D. All
_______ 2. Their main task is to provide timely advice (usually over the telephone) to
users in the operation of the hardware and software in use.
A. Supervisor C. Network Specialist
B. Clients or End-Users D. Help Desk Staff
_______3. _________ are the people or group of people for whom the software is
being installed. You interview them in order to find out what software
they currently have, and their information needs.
A. Clients or End-Users C. Supervisor
B. Computer Support Officer D. All
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Answer Sheet
Score = ___________
Rating: ___________
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List of Reference Materials
Reference
https://www.quora.com/What-is-the-difference-between-upgrade-and-update
https://www.intowindows.com/how-to-upgrade-office-2007-to-office-2010/
Posted by Synopsys Editorial Team on Friday, October 7th, 2016
https://www.synopsys.com/blogs/software-security/5-types-of-software-licenses-you-need-
to-understand/
Experts
The development of this Learning Gide for the TVET Program Information
technology support service Level I.
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