System Software:
1. Controls the operation of a computer.
2. Is the BOSS of the computer system.
3. Is also known as the Operating System.

Operating System functions:
1. Sets the rules for how the computer hardware and application software work together.
2. Supervises the other components of the operating system.
3. Manages input and output systems.
4. Translates program commands into bits (which the computer understands.)
5. Controls storage of data.

System Software tasks:
1. Booting the computer.
2. Formatting disks.
3. Creating folders or directories.
4. Saving and retrieving files.
5. Moving and copying files.
6. And much more - computers are BUSY!

Types of System Software:
There are many different types of system software designed for different types of computers.
Examples are:
- MS-DOS
- PC-DOS
- Mac OS10
- UNIX
- Windows NT
- Windows 98
- Windows XP

Applications Software:
Computer programs designed to meet the specific needs of the user. It performs specific functions, such as: calculating total magazine sales for a homeroom; keeping information in an organized way about each student in a school; or a program in which you can write letters and reports. When several types of applications software programs are sold together, it is called an "Integrated Software Package," for example, MS Office Suite, MS Works, WordPerfect Suite, Claris Works.
Following is a list of the most commonly used types of applications software:

Word Processing:
Used to create documents such as letters, reports, memos, and flyers. Word processors perform
the work that was originally done on a typewriter.

Spreadsheet:
Allows the user to enter numbers and formulas that will perform mathematical/financial
calculations. Spreadsheets consist of rows and columns and are widely used in accounting. Your parents may use spreadsheets to organize their budget.

Database:
Used to set up electronic filing. It allows the user to enter, retrieve, and update records in an
organized and efficient way. Databases are used to organize, search, sort, and save information. Examples are: Telephone Books, Computerized Card Catalogs used in media centers, mailing
lists, etc.

Desktop Publishing:
Used to create cards, banners, flyers, newsletters, calendars, and banners. PrintShop and MicroSoft Publisher are examples of this software.

How Application Software helps us:
1. Word Processing software is used to write letters and reports.
2. Spreadsheet software calculates numbers such as a teacher's gradebook.
3. Database software organizes data such as names and addresses.
4. Desktop publishing software creates cards, flyers, calendars, and banners.
5. Paint/Draw software contains drawing and coloring tools.
6. Educational software makes learning fun!

Business needs for application software:
1. Writing letters and memos
2. Keeping track of customer names and addresses.
3. Payroll.
4. Inventory control.
5. Sales and customer orders.
6. Purchasing.
7. Catalogs and advertising.
8. Electronic mail.
9. Voice mail.

Application Software needs of a school:
1. Student information.
2. Attendance.
3. Electronic gradebook.
4. Testing.
5. Computer instruction.
6. Reference materials.
7. Payroll.
8. E-mail.