What is software? - Including 'off the shelf software' and 'custom made' / 'bespoke' software.

Different types of computer software

Software – is any program that can run on a computer containing a microprocessor, when a program runs, it directs the operation of the technology system by controlling the processing and peripheral devices.

There are two main categories of software:

Off the shelf – These programs are usually cheaper than custom made software; they are instantly available, well tested, bug-free, with good support available from books or the internet. Eg. Microsoft Office.


Custom Made – These programs are written especially for the client to meet a specific need. Custom made (aka Bespoke) programs usually take weeks or months to write, but will deliver exactly what the client specified. Some organisations commission custom-made software to solve a specific problem, such as carrying out financial transactions or a robot control program for an automated car production line.

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