What is Application Software? Definition and Types with Examples + More

Quick Overview: Selecting the appropriate application software from a wide range of options can significantly enhance operations and efficiency, ultimately impacting business outcomes. In this article, let's understand the introduction of application software, its types, and how to choose the right one for your business.

When you were a kid, you might have used Microsoft Excel, Word, or PowerPoint for calculation, fun, exploring technology, or other such reasons. We all know how impactful these tools were when we used them for the first time in our teenage years. We were very impressed with the creativity and productivity of those platforms, and we definitely considered them a miracle.

Back to today’s internet-evolving era, you can find countless types of software that help automate tasks and increase efficiency. From MS Office that helps us create and manage documents to the games we play on our computer, or the calorie burn counter on our smart devices, all these are examples of “application software”.

However, despite the impact and popularity of these digital products, a major chunk of people does not exactly know the term, its varieties, how it works, or how it’s different from system software. Chances are, this lack of awareness could limit your chance to tap into its potential.

Bearing that in mind, we’re going to go back to the basics in this article and go through the definition of application software and its types, along with its benefits, features, functions, and a lot more.

Here we go!

What is Application Software?

So, if someone asks - what is application software? Technically the answer would be - it’s a set of defined data, programs, procedures, instructions, and documentation that performs various operations when users request for that. They allow end-users to interact with the system. Hence, it’s also known as end-user programs.

There are various types of software applications to perform simple and complex tasks. These programs are essentially a collection of instructions targeted at modifying the state of computer hardware. Written in high-level languages, they are compiled or interpreted into machine language code at the most fundamental level.

Software applications are the backbone of computer operations. They command a computer system what to do, when to do it, and how to do it. Today, we have a plethora of software with high-end technology at our disposal that defines how we live our lives and accommodate our ever-changing and expanding requirements. For example, we can consider Gmail, Zoom, and Photoshop as some of the most popular software applications.

Application Software vs System Software: What’s the Difference?

While these two terms may appear interchangeable at first glance, they are fundamentally distinct. Understanding the differences between them is crucial to selecting the right program for your business needs.

• System software manages the system resources and works as a platform to execute application software, whereas application software executes specific tasks.
• System software is built using low-level languages (assembly language), whereas application software is built using high-level languages, like .NET, C++, VB, Java, etc.
• System software is used for operating computer hardware. On the other hand, application software is used to perform specific operations by users.
• System software programming is complicated. However, application software is easier to code and develop.
• System software can run independently and provide a platform to run application software, whereas application software is dependent on system software.

What are the Different Types of Application Software?

With the continuous innovations of technology, businesses are creating specialized solutions for almost every imaginable task. This surge in software diversity has led to the invention of a wide range of applications and tools tailored to specific industries, workflows, or even individual preferences.

In general, application software consists of three broad categories:

1. General Application Software
2. Customized Application Software
3. Business Application Software

Let's talk about each type and their sub types in detail:

1. General Application Software

General software is capable of completing a wide range of fundamental tasks. They complete all of the general duties that a user needs to perform on the system. Among these, many commonly used enterprise applications falls into this group.

These systems are available in stand-alone versions or as part of application suite packages. Some of the application software examples are Microsoft Office, Mozilla Firefox, McAfee, and many more.

The general application software is divided further as follows:

• Word Processing Software

Word processing software offers a number of features to help users create, edit, delete, access, customize, and format text files. These tools often include advanced features like Word Art, Thesauruses, and other functionalities to improve the visual appeal of documents.

Additionally, many word processors offer publishing and emailing features, which makes them ideal for creating reports, manuals, books, newsletters, and more.

Examples of word processing software applications include WordPad, Open Office Writer, MS Word, WPS Writer, etc.

• Spreadsheet Software

A spreadsheet software application helps us to perform calculations using various tools. The data are organized in tabular formats in the rows and columns. The intersection of a row and column is known as a cell.

These cells store the data in the form of date, time, and numbers. They have various formulas on which various functions and calculations are performed. In addition, they have some amazing features like tables, 3D graphs, charts, and many more. This software is widely used in sectors like finance, business, and accounting for data management and analysis.

Spreadsheet software application examples are LibreOffice Calc, Google Sheets, and MS Excel.

• Database Software

A database is a set of relevant data stored in an organized manner. It’s also known as a Database Management System (DBMS). It helps users create, delete, edit, and extract data from the database.

When developers build an application, they design it to interact with a database to store and manage data. The database management system (DBMS) assists the application in retrieving the relevant data and storing it once it is no longer in use.

These tools help in handling various data on the system like email ids, phone numbers, catalogs, reports, etc.

Common examples of database application software are SQL, Oracle, dBASE, etc.

• Presentation Software

As the name suggests, you can use presentation software apps to create and present projects in the form of slides. These tools offer basic features to create and organize slides with text, images, and animations. Besides, they also have unique features like audio files, video files, charts, and graphs to make more engaging presentations.

Two popular examples of presentation software applications are MS PowerPoint, Google Slides, and Pinnacle Studio.

• Web Browsers

Web browsers have become essential tools as one of the widely used application software types. Businesses and individuals alike use them to access various types of information on the internet. The data we find is freely available, allowing users to search for information, watch videos, download images, and read files with browser software.

Some of the popular browser software examples are Google Chrome, Microsoft Internet Explorer, and Mozilla Firefox.

• Graphic Design Software

Graphic design software allows for creating, editing, and manipulating digital images or videos in a short time. This software comprises multiple tools to produce graphics, illustrations, layouts, and other visual elements for both digital and print media.

Canva, Adobe Photoshop, Clip Studio, and Adobe Illustrator are a few examples of graphic design software.

• Simulation Software

Simulation software is utilized in a variety of fields to replicate life-like conditions. This is primarily beneficial in video games or professional training sessions. When actual machinery cannot be used without training, organizations can use simulation software to familiarize trainees with the environment before handling the actual machinery.

For example, consider the rigorous training programs for pilots or astronauts. Simulation tools developed through expert software development services provide essential preliminary exposure and knowledge about aircraft or spacecraft controls. Incorporating AR/VR technologies takes these simulations to new heights, offering immersive experiences that closely mimic reality.

2. Customized Application Software

To remain competitive in this market, many organizations start with an app idea to develop tailored solutions based on their specific requirements. These types of software applications are developed on the special demands of a business.

As a result, the software is tailored to meet the organization's demands and often excludes unnecessary functionalities found in more general-purpose applications. Therefore, it only includes the features that are essential to the users' goals and what users actually want for their purpose.

Customized application software is not typically available for direct download from the internet. If you hire software developers to develop such an app, they will be responsible for handing it over to you with agreed-upon rights, terms, and ownership conditions.

The following are the subtypes of customized application software:

Here are some examples of customized (tailor-made) application software:

• E-commerce Platforms

Personalized online shopping websites, similar to Shopify or WooCommerce, are the rage now. These platforms are tailored for specific business operations and customer interactions.

• Accounting Software

Accounting software is for managing finances, taxes, payroll, and other financial operations, like QuickBooks (customized) for certain businesses.

• SaaS Solutions

SaaS apps are built and hosted on the cloud specifically for a company's unique operational needs. For benefits like cost-effectiveness, easy accessibility, and hassle-free upgrades, these systems have become a popular choice for businesses of all sizes.

• Security and Compliance Software

The purpose of this software tools is to help businesses monitor, detect, and prevent security breaches and adhere to industry regulations. Splunk and McAfee are the two most popular software apps of this type.

3. Business Application Software

Business application software is one of the main types of application software designed to support multiple functions and operations of businesses. Utilizing these applications, teams can improve the accuracy and efficiency of their workflows. Moreover, such applications strengthen the security of organizational assets, data, and programs throughout the operational lifecycle

Organizations around the globe nowadays use many software applications. The following are some of them:

• Project Management Software

Applications like Slack, Asana, and Basecamp help individual employees and teams plan, execute, organize, and track projects. Some of the key features are resource allocation, task management, document sharing, reporting, etc.

• Communications Software

Software of this type enables teams to communicate in real time through various channels. Platforms like Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet offer instant messaging apps, video conferencing tools, and VoIP systems used in both personal and business environments.

• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems

SAP, Oracle ERP, or Microsoft Dynamics 365 are some of the most widely used ERP software applications that enterprises can customize to fit their unique operations and workflows.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Systems

Custom-built CRM platforms like Salesforce, HubSpot, Zoho, and Zendesk help businesses manage customer interactions, store customer data, enable sales, provide support services.

• Inventory Management Software

These are bespoke software built to manage inventory, track stock levels, and automate supply chain processes based on business needs. Examples of inventory management software include TradeGecko, Zoho Inventory, ShipHero, and Ordoro.

• Learning Management Systems (LMS)

For educational institutions or corporate training programs, LMSs are highly useful. Organizations are increasingly relying on modern platforms like Litmos, Canvas, or Google Classroom to educate and engage learners.

• Human Resource Management Software (HRMS)

Application software like BambooHR, Zoho People, and Keka combines various HR and workforce management functions like employee records management, payroll processing, and recruitment into a single digital system.

Types of Application Software Based on Availability and Shareability

There's another classification of application software based on two particular criteria - availability and shareability:

• Freeware Software

Freeware software can be downloaded and used without charge. This software cannot be edited or personalized without illegally tampering with the codebase.

For example, Adobe Reader is a freeware software that offers some basic functionality free of cost. We can get that by downloading it from the internet.

• Shareware Software

Shareware software applications are free but with limited-time distribution of the codebase. When users are granted access to the source code, they are frequently encouraged to make copies and distribute them.

This type of software application includes WinZip and Adobe Acrobat.

• Open-Source Software

As the name indicates, an open-source software application has accessible code that is available on the internet for free. This means anyone can view the software's source code and modify it to fix issues or add new features.

Many people often mistake open-source software for free software. However, 'free' here refers to the available source code without any cost, which makes the software available for development.

Some open-source software applications like Apache WebServer are available without any cost, while others are paid.

• Closed Source Software

The source code of closed source software applications is not accessible. The codebase can’t be viewed or seen by anyone, even if you own a premium account. Most of the software packages we use in today’s world are part of this closed source software ecosystem.

The software development company that releases the software has exclusive intellectual property rights to the codebase.

Key Functionalities of Application Software

The primary function of application software is designed to facilitate a wide array of operations. As business needs and user demands kept shifting for faster and smarter solutions, these tools kept evolving with advanced functionalities. Many of them became increasingly versatile.

Here are some of the most basic, yet critical, functions of application software that organizations across industries commonly rely on.

• Business Analytics, information processing, business governance, and decision support
• Document control, file structuring, records management, and data storage.
• Multimedia content production, visual design and motion graphics.
• Financial operations and salary administration, account and payroll processing, and expense tracking.
• Project coordination, workflow optimization, and task tracking.
• Enterprise strategy and execution, resource allocation, operational planning and business process management.
• Workforce optimization, business resource planning, and client engagement systems.

Top Features of Application Software

Just as functionalities, the features of app software systems adapted with modern technology. Packed with extensive features, these tools are capable of meeting the growing requirements of users and businesses.

Take a look at the most prominent application software features:

• User-friendly and intuitive UI/UX design.
• Cross-platform and cross-device compatibility.
• Scalability and customization scope
• Support for third-party integration
• High-end security and compliance measures
• Cloud and offline work accessibility
• Real-time collaboration across locations
• AI and automation capabilities

Real-Life Examples of Application Software

You will find a list of application software widely used in all industry domains. Let’s find out some popular examples of application software that we interact with on a daily basis.

Microsoft Products: MS Word, PowerPoint, Excel, MS Office, Outlook

Music Application Software: Spotify, YouTube Music, Apple Music, Amazon Music

Communication Application Software: Skype, Google Meet, Zoom, MS Teams, WhatsApp

Team Collaboration Software: Slack, ClickUp, Wrike, Trello, Asana

Internet Browsers: Opera, Safari, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer, Mozilla Firefox

Multimedia Software: Windows Media Player, VLC Player, MX Player, QuickTime Player, RealPlayer

Productivity Software: Teamwork, Airtable, Notion, Monday.com, Smartsheet

Notable Advantages of Application Software

You’ve probably got the idea by now – developing application software has its perks. To make things even quicker and simpler, here’s a compact list of the assured benefits of application software:

1. Enhanced User Experience

Modern software systems are built with usability in mind. It lets us complete tasks faster and with as little effort as possible. Features like intuitive interface designs, drag-and-drop functionalities, real-time notifications, voice and gesture control, etc., make everyday tasks easier, more accessible, and more productive.

2. Customization and Flexibility

One of the prime advantages of application software is that it gives you the freedom to customize it according to the unique needs of your users and business.

This was not the case with legacy software systems with which enterprises often had to settle for rigid cookie-cutter solutions. But with modern application software, you can customize cross-departmental workflows, team-based functionalities, user rolls and access control, notifications, and much more.

3. Better Productivity

With application software, users can minimize their time spent on tasks and generate more output in a given time.

Let’s consider an example - if you use an RPA (Robotic Process Application) software, it will help you eliminate repetitive tasks, such as replying to emails and verifying payroll data against the rules. This will definitely save your time to a great extent.

4. Robust Data Security

Security was the biggest concern for digital assets even a decade ago. Today's applications come with built-in security measures that provide a solid defense against all types of security breaches. Moreover, with the increasing adoption of AI, threat detection and prevention have reached a whole new level.

5. Decision-Making Power

Having said this earlier, you will get all the data in one place from different sources. This will actually help you make a reliable decision based on how you monitor the data, analyze its performance, predict future trends, and plan your tasks well in advance.

Beyond just organizing data, modern software empowers you with real-time analytics and AI-driven insight. Systems can easily identify patterns and help teams make data-backed decisions with confidence.

Your Next StepIf we talk about what software holds tomorrow, you should know that it has become an inevitable reality. Digital solutions continue to evolve, and these applications automate any task to fulfill everyone’s objectives, be it enterprises or users.Hence, software applications have become a necessity in every industry domain with their high demand in the market. They have been helping many organizations achieve their objectives by developing specific and unique products to endorse their business.So, if you want to stay ahead in the competition, now’s the time to invest in bespoke application software with a reliable partner by your side. We began as a software development company, specializing in end-to-end digital solutions. Our team is well-versed in a wide range of technologies, from proprietary to open-source and custom-built solutions, while following streamlined systems, processes, and expertise.And that’s the reason it’s easy to say that the future of software seems to be hogging all the limelight and will continue to evolve with time. And you should understand the importance of application software and implement it into your business before you slip out from the competitors.Let's talk, just when you’re ready!