← Back to Grade 11 CS

11.3 Software Selection & Classification

LO 11.3.1.2 Classify application software.
LO 11.3.1.1 Justify choice criteria based on goals.
Foundations

1. What is Software?

Software is the intangible logic—the "brain" that directs the hardware. We must distinguish between:

System Software
Operates the hardware (OS, Utilities). Runs in the background.
Application Software
Helps the user perform specific tasks. Direct user interaction.

2. The Three Categories of Application Software

General vs Special vs Bespoke Diagram

Click to zoom hierarchy

1. General-Purpose (The Multi-Tool)

Designed for multiple, non-specific tasks. Mass-produced and versatile.

  • Examples: Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Web Browsers.
  • Strategic Advantage: Cost-effective, widely available, easy to learn.

2. Special-Purpose (The Precision Instrument)

Optimized for a narrow, specific set of tasks. Used where general tools are insufficient.

  • Examples: CAD (Engineering), Flight Simulators, Accounting Software.
  • Trade-off: Gains efficiency and accuracy, but loses flexibility.

3. Bespoke (The Tailor-Made Suit)

Developed from scratch for ONE specific organization's unique needs.

  • Examples: Proprietary banking systems, Custom e-commerce logic.
  • Risk: High development cost, long time to build, maintenance obligation.

3. Comparative Synthesis

Feature General-Purpose Special-Purpose Bespoke (Custom)
Functionality Multiple, general tasks Specific task only Fully tailored
Flexibility High (Multi-use) Moderate High (Within specs)
Cost Low Moderate High
Target Mass Market Professionals Specific Org

Lesson Presentation

Review the full slides for this unit:

PDF previews work best on desktop.

Open Presentation

5. Justifying the Choice (LO 11.3.1.1)

To justify a selection, analyze: Goal, Cost, Scalability, and Precision.

The School

Goal: Student reports & presentations.

Choice: General-Purpose.

Why: Cost-effective and versatile for many subjects.

Architecture Firm

Goal: Precise technical drawings.

Choice: Special-Purpose (CAD).

Why: Requires high precision that general tools lack.

Large Online Biz

Goal: Unique proprietary logistics.

Choice: Bespoke.

Why: Off-the-shelf cannot match unique workflow. Competitive edge.

6. Video Explanation

A summary of Application Software types.

Knowledge Check

1. Why would an Architecture Firm choose Special-Purpose (CAD) software?

2. What is the main disadvantage of Bespoke software?

3. Which software is a "Multi-Tool" (Versatile)?