Principles of Information Systems, Eighth Edition
4-1
Chapter 4
Software: Systems and Application Software
At a Glance
Instructor’s Manual Table of Contents
• Overview
• Principles and Objectives
• Teaching Tips
• Quick Quizzes
• Class Discussion Topics
• Additional Projects
• Additional Resources
• Key Terms
Principles of Information Systems, Eighth Edition
4-2
Overview
Chapter 4 provides insight into the processes and methods for instructing information
systems to perform value-adding tasks in ways desired by organizational users. This is
accomplished through the use of software. Two types of software are important to
information system users: systems software and application software. Systems software
coordinates the activities of the hardware and various application programs, while
application software consists of programs that help users solve particular computing
problems. An operating system, which plays a central role in the functioning of a computer
system, is an example of systems software. Accounting packages, decision support software,
word processing software, and graphic software are all examples of applications.
Principles and Objectives
Principles
Learning Objectives
Systems and application software are
critical in helping individuals and
organizations achieve their goals.
• Identify and briefly describe the
functions of the two basic kinds of
software.
• Outline the role of the operating system
and identify the features of several
popular operating systems.
Do not develop proprietary application
software unless doing so will meet a
compelling business need that can provide
a competitive advantage.
• Discuss how application software can
support personal, workgroup, and
enterprise business objectives.
• Identify th