Creative projects: combining applications across devices

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Lesson notes

What are Applications?

  • Application software (or app) is software for end users, not for operating or programming the computer.
  • Examples include word processors, web browsers, media players, and mobile apps.
  • Applications translate system capabilities into task-oriented workflows for users.
  • The term app became popular with the iOS App Store in 2008, then spread to other platforms.
  • Applications can be bundled with a computer or published separately, and can be proprietary or open-source.

System vs. Application Software

  • System software manages hardware and resources; application software focuses on user tasks.
  • The distinction can be subjective; e.g., whether a web browser is part of the OS or an app was debated in the Microsoft antitrust case.
  • In embedded systems (e.g., microwave ovens), the user may not distinguish between system and application software.
  • For creative projects, you usually choose applications that help you achieve a specific goal.

Killer Applications

  • A killer app is so popular it boosts demand for its platform.
  • VisiCalc (first spreadsheet) helped sell Apple II computers to offices.
  • BlackBerry's email software was its killer app.
  • Understanding killer apps helps you see how a single tool can drive technology adoption.

Software Suites

  • A software suite bundles multiple applications with related functions and a common interface.
  • Examples: Microsoft Office, LibreOffice, iWork (word processor + spreadsheet + more).
  • Suites allow apps to interact, e.g., open each other's files.
  • Using a suite can streamline a creative project by keeping tools consistent.

Classifying Applications by Source

  • Proprietary software is under exclusive copyright with limited usage rights.
  • Free and open-source software (FOSS) can be run, distributed, and modified freely.
  • Public-domain software has no copyright restrictions and can be reused without attribution.
  • For projects, you can choose from free or paid tools depending on needs and budget.

Classifying by Platform

  • Applications run on platforms like operating systems, web browsers, cloud, and mobile.
  • Native apps run directly on an OS; web apps run in a browser.
  • There is debate over web vs. native apps, but they can be complementary.
  • In creative projects, you may combine desktop, web, and mobile apps across devices.

Horizontal vs. Vertical Applications

  • Horizontal applications are general-purpose (e.g., word processors, databases) and widely used.
  • Vertical applications are niche, designed for specific industries (e.g., banking, healthcare).
  • For school projects, you'll often use horizontal apps like Google Docs or Canva.
  • Choosing the right type depends on the task and audience.

Planning a Creative Project

  • Start by defining a challenging goal and identifying known users.
  • Plan the project: break it into tasks and decide which app suits each task.
  • Select tools that combine well (e.g., export/import formats, cloud sync).
  • Test your workflow across devices to ensure compatibility.

Combining Applications Across Devices

  • Use cloud storage (e.g., Google Drive) to share files between devices.
  • Combine a word processor for writing, a spreadsheet for data, and a presentation tool for output.
  • Use mobile apps to capture photos or notes, then edit on a desktop.
  • Ensure file formats are compatible (e.g., PDF for universal sharing).

Meeting User Needs

  • Identify who the users are and what they need from your project.
  • Choose applications that produce accessible outputs (e.g., large fonts, alt text).
  • Test your project with users to get feedback and improve.
  • Consider usability: keep interfaces simple and intuitive.

Slides

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Practice questions

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  1. 1.Application software is software intended for end-user use, not for operating, administering, or programming a computer.

    Easy

    True or false?

  2. 2.Which of the following is an example of application software?

    Easy
    • AOperating system
    • BWord processor
    • CDevice driver
    • DFirmware
  3. 3.Web applications have completely replaced native applications for all purposes, especially on mobile devices.

    Easy

    True or false?

  4. 4.Which of the following is an example of a vertical application?

    Easy
    • AWord processor
    • BSpreadsheet
    • CBanking system for a specific bank
    • DWeb browser
  5. 5.Which of the following are examples of software suites? (Select all that apply)

    Medium
    • AMicrosoft Office
    • BLibreOffice
    • CAdobe Photoshop
    • DiWork
    • EWindows 10
  6. 6.Match each type of application software with its correct description.

    Medium
    • Proprietary software
    • Free and open-source software
    • Public-domain software
    • Protected by exclusive copyright with limited usage rights
    • Can be run, distributed, sold, and extended for any purpose
    • Royalty-free and can be used without copyright attribution
  7. 7.The abbreviation 'app' became popular with the introduction of the iOS App Store in 2008.

    Easy

    True or false?

  8. 8.Which of the following is NOT a category used to classify application software according to the source?

    Medium
    • ABy legal aspects
    • BBy platform
    • CBy color scheme
    • DHorizontal vs. vertical

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