IS Software : The comparison between general purpose application software and function-specific application software

General purpose application programs are the programs that perform common information processing jobs for end users but not in support of a specific purpose. Because of them importantly increase the productivity of end users, also known as productivity packages. For example, word processing, spreadsheet, database management, and graphic management are popular with microcomputer user for home, education business and many others propose.


The Microsoft Word is examples of Word Processing Packages. Word Processing Software is used to create letters, memos and various types of documents. Function-specific application software is more limited in what it will do, but it usually goes that one thing much better than you see.

A spreadsheet program is software that permits numerical data to be used and to perform automatic calculations on numbers contained in a table. It is also possible to automate complex calculations by using a large number of parameters and by creating tables called worksheets.

Presentation software (sometimes called "presentation graphics") is a category of application program used to create sequences of words and pictures that tell a story or help support a speech or public presentation of information. Some very popular presentation software, such as Microsoft's PowerPoint is sold stand-alone or can come as part of office-oriented suites or packages of software.

Function-specific application software is available to support specific applications of end users in business or other fields. Function-specific application software has also lesser purpose but it has greater capabilities. Moreover, it is much better then general purpose application software based on application software program and how it works.Example: Business application software, customer relationship management, enterprise resource planning, supply chain management, web-enabled electronic commerce.

Sap.com is a leading application service provider of Web-based sales management and customer relationship management services to both large and small business.

Web-enabled electronic commerce applications or apply to the functional areas of business like human resource management, accounting and finance. Web-enabled electronic commerce such as Amazon.com provides electronic payment, security, and many other e-commerce services.

Enterprise resource planning software, or ERP which is attempts to integrate all departments and functions across company onto a single computer system that can serve all those different departments’ particular needs. Oracle also provides a comprehensive Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software solution that can make the best use of organisational resources.