NC FIT Pilot: 2.00 Application Software
Productivity software
A broad term that describes applications that range from those used to create documents to those used to manage your projects and organize your time.
Application software
A program that provides specific functionality such as word processing, graphics creation, or database management. It is generally written to run on a specific operating system.
Personal information managers (PIM)
Are used to manage your contacts and schedules. Examples include Windows Contacts and Google Calendar.
Antimalware
Detects and eliminates malicious software that resides on a computer. Examples include Windows Defender and Malwarebytes Anti-Malware.
Video conferencing software
Enables users to communicate with audio and video functionality from diverse locations. Examples include Skype and Google Hangouts.
Instant messaging software
Enables users to exchange short notes, or chat, online in real time. Examples include Microsoft Lync and AOL Instant Messenger (AIM).
Screen sharing software
Enables users to see each other's desktops from remote locations. Examples include Windows Remote Assistance and TeamViewer.
Online workspace software
Enables users to work with common files in a shared space on the web. Examples include Microsoft SharePoint.
Entertainment software
Enables you to purchase, collect, and experience entertainment media such as music and movies on a computer. Examples include Google Play and iTunes.
Gaming software
Enables you to purchase, collect, and play video games on a computer. Examples include Steam and Origin.
Software firewalls
Filter incoming or outgoing network traffic depending on how they are configured. Examples include ZoneAlarm and Comodo Internet Security (CIS).
Document storage/sharing software
Provides a repository to store and share files between users in various locations. Examples include OneDrive and Dropbox.
Compression software
Reduces the size of files so that they can be stored and transmitted more easily. Examples include WinZip and 7-Zip.
Diagnostic/maintenance software
Reports on any problems or issues that a computer may be experiencing. Examples include Windows Action Center and PC-Doctor.
Remote desktop software
Used to access another desktop to provide troubleshooting assistance. Examples include Windows Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) and Virtual Network Computing (VNC).
Spreadsheet software
Used to calculate and analyze tables of numbers. Examples include Microsoft Excel and Apple iWork Numbers.
Medical software
Used to collect, analyze, and present data related to medical information. Examples include Kareo and athenaCollector.
Scientific software
Used to collect, analyze, and present data used in experiments. Examples include LISREL and Sage.
Email software
Used to communicate with others. Allows users to send messages, and share contact and calendar information. Examples include Microsoft Outlook and Gmail.
Presentation software
Used to create and work with slide shows. Examples include Microsoft PowerPoint and Apple iWork Keynote.
Word processing software
Used to create and work with typed documents. Examples include Microsoft Word and Apple iWork Pages.
Computer-aided design (CAD) software
Used to create design specifications for electronics, mechanical objects, animation, and other products. Examples include AutoCAD and SketchUp.
Graphic design software
Used to create visual representations of concepts and ideas. Examples include Adobe Illustrator and CorelDRAW.
Financial software
Used to keep track of expenses, maintain a budget, file taxes, and manage other financial information. Examples include Quicken and Microsoft Dynamics.
Basic database software
Used to manage large volumes of lists and records. Examples include Microsoft Access and FileMaker Pro.
PDF software
Used to view, create, and work with portable document format documents. Examples include Adobe Acrobat and Foxit PhantomPDF.
Desktop publishing software
Used to work with page layouts and typography in documents and publications. Examples include Adobe InDesign and Microsoft Publisher.
