srakaelectro.blogg.se - Major software categories

Software can be applied in countless fields such as business, education, social sector, and other fields. Robustness refers to the degree to which the software can keep on functioning in spite of being provided with invalid data while integrity refers to the degree to which unauthorized access to the software or data can be prevented. In addition to the above mentioned characteristics, robustness and integrity are also important. In simple terms, it refers to the ability of software to function properly on different hardware and software platforms without making any changes in it.

Portability: Refers to the ease with which software developers can transfer software from one platform to another, without (or with minimum) changes.

Maintainability: Refers to the ease with which the modifications can be made in a software system to extend its functionality, improve its performance, or correct errors.

Efficiency: Refers to the ability of the software to use system resources in the most effective and efficient manner.

Usability: Refers to the extent to which the software can be used with ease.

Reliability: Refers to the ability of the software to provide desired functionality under the given conditions.

Functionality: Refers to the degree of performance of the software against its intended purpose.

The Institute of Electrical and Electronic Engineers (IEEE) defines software as a ‘collection of computer programs, procedures, rules and associated documentation and data.’ It possesses no mass, no volume, and no colour, which makes it a non-degradable entity over a long period. Software is defined as a collection of programs, documentation and operating procedures. Software engineering methods and tools have been successfully implemented in various applications spread across different walks of life. Since then, software engineering has evolved as a full-fledged engineering discipline, which is accepted as a field involving in-depth study and research. The notion of software engineering was first proposed in 1968.

In addition to the technical aspects of the software development, it also covers management activities which include guiding the team, budgeting, preparing schedules, etc.

Software engineering provides methods to handle complexities in a software system and enables the development of reliable software systems, which maximize productivity. This new approach led to the emergence of a discipline known as software engineering. Software development now necessitated the presence of a team, which could prepare detailed plans and designs, carry out testing, develop intuitive user interfaces, and integrate all these activities into a system. However, as technology improved, software became more complex and software projects grew larger. In earlier times, software was simple in nature and hence, software development was a simple activity.