Question

a) Briefly explain the differences between firmware, operating system software and application software. t b) Briefly explain THREE ways in which organisations can acquire software + t t c) Jamin is a small firm that manufactures New Zealand souvenirs. Jane is in charge of manufacturing and has the responsibility of purchasing a new inventory management software package for her company. 1) Identify and carefully describe THREE criteria (or factors) that Jane should consider when evaluating the software packages that are available. ii) For TWO of the criteria (or factors) identified in (1) above, briefly explain a negative impact (1.e. something that could go wrong) for the firm, if the factor is not taken into consideration in the purchasing decision. t

Answer 1

a) Difference between Firmware, operating system software and Application software

Firmware :-

->Firmware is a special type of computer software which describe the core funnctionality of that particular hardware.

->For example BIOS/EFI is one of the most popular example of Firmware.

->It is coded on Hardware during the manufacturing of that particular device.

->Firmware never changes or rarely changes after manufacturing any changes in firmware it affects the core functionality of system.

operating system software :-

->operating system software installed on computer during installation of operating system.(after POST operation). example=> compiler,drivers,etc.

Application software :-

-> In case of application software it can be installed whenever user want to use that particular software.

->and if there any changes in appllication software it dosen't affect the main system.

->examples:- media player,photoshop,etc.