Software Flashcards
Define software
The set of machine readable instructions and executable code that runs on hardware plus all the related human-readable program code and documentation.
List and describe the characteristics of software that make it different
Invisibility: Progress in building software cannot be seen
Complexity: Software is more complex than other engineered products
Conformity: Software conforms to human rules rather than physical rules (e.g. gravity) and human rules are subject to change
Flexibility: Software is flexible. It is subject to a high degree of change throughout its life, but this change brings further complexity
What is a BIOS?
Built-in operating system. The connector between hardware and the operating system and other software.
Name and describe some software products
Customised one-off/bespoke software: Software built for a specific customer to meet their needs
Generic products/package software: Stand-alone systems sold to anybody who wishes to buy them. “Build it once, sell it many times”
Software-as-a-service: Software provided through a cloud service or is rented to customers
