2.1 Types of Software

Question 1

What is Open Source software

Answer 1

Code that users can view and modify
Examples = Python

Question 2

Benefits of Open Source

Answer 2

1) Can be customised to an organisation’s needs

2) Unwanted features can be removed to make software run faster

3) Users can work together to debug, modify and improve a product

4) Low in price, sometimes free

Question 3

Drawbacks of Open Source

Answer 3

1) Security risks as malware code can be added

2) Code may be prone to errors as it may not have been tested fully

3) Difficult to receive support as people are in different locations

4) Requires technical skills to adapt and maintain code

Question 4

What is Closed Source software

Answer 4

Code is restricted for users to view and modify
Examples = Spotify, Fortnite

Question 5

Benefits of Closed Source software

Answer 5

1) Code is well tested, updates will be secure

2) Most developers will provide some support

3) Company can be held accountable if it does not conform to terms and conditions policy

Question 6

Drawbacks of Closed Source software

Answer 6

1) Must rely on company to provide updates and fix issues

2) Users can’t modify, debug or improve code

3) Often not free

Question 7

What is off-the-shelf software

Answer 7

Made for general use for different purposes
Examples = Minecraft, Photoshop

Question 8

Benefits of off-the-shelf software

Answer 8

1) Tested thoroughly ao features will work as expected and regular updates provided

2) Familiar software and trust the company

3) Cheaper than bespoke software

Question 9

Drawbacks of off-the-shelf software

Answer 9

1) Expensive to purchase some software as it requires a yearly subscription

2) Additional features may cause the software to run slower, reducing performance

Question 10

What is Bespoke software

Answer 10

Custom made software for a specific organisation
Examples = Hospitals and Schools

Question 11

Benefits of Bespoke software

Answer 11

1) Built to companies requirements so it is unique

2) Design and layout can be customised by the company

3) Unwanted features can be removed to make software run faster

Question 12

Drawbacks of Bespoke software

Answer 12

1) Expensive to develop because it is tailor-made for the company

2) Original programmers needed to maintain software and fix errors

3) Staff may require training to use the system