WMES1105 PRINCIPLE OF INFORMATION SYSTEMS Semester 1 2010/2011 Tutorial 4

Review questions Sample answer. 1. Define the term utility software and give two examples. ANS: Utility software includes programs that are used to merge and sort sets of data, keep track of computer jobs being run, compress data files before they are stored or transmitted over a network, and perform other important tasks. Examples of utility programs include TestDrive and MacAfee virus protection software. 2. What is freeware? Give two examples. ANS: Freeware is software that is very inexpensive or free, usually for use in personal computers, but whose source code cannot be modified. Examples include Microsoft Windows Defender, Spybot Search and Destroy, Perio Personal Firewall, OpenOffice, PhotoPlus, and Picasa. 3. What is multitasking? ANS: Multitasking is allowing one user to run several programs or tasks at the same time. 4. Describe the term enterprise resource planning (ERP) system. What functions does such a system perform? ANS: Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) is a set of integrated programs that manage a companys vital business operations for an entire multisite, global organization. ERP generally supports core business processes such as manufacturing and finance. Many ERP packages also support human resources, sales, and distribution. The goal of many ERP packages is to provide an integrated and complete set of enterprise software. 5. Briefly discuss the advantages and disadvantages of frequently software upgrades. ANS: Software companies revise their programs and sell new versions periodically. In some cases, the revised software offers new and valuable enhancements. In other cases, the software uses complex program code that offers little in terms of additional capabilities. In addition, revised software can contain bugs or errors.

6. Name four operating systems that support the personal, workgroup, and enterprise spheres of influence. ANS: Four operating systems that support the personal, workgroup, and enterprise spheres of influence include UNIX, Solaris, Linux, and RedHat Linux. 7. What does the acronym ASP stand for? What is the role of an ASP? ANS: An application service provider, or ASP, is a company that provides both end-user support and the computers on which to run the software from the user's facilities. Application service providers use the Internet to quickly change and upgrade software. Using an application service provider is not without risks: sensitive information can be compromised in a number of different ways, the application service provider might be unable to keep its computers and networks up and running as consistently as needed, or a disaster might befall the application service provider's data facility. 8. What is open-source software? Give two examples. ANS: Open source software means that the source code is freely available to anyone wishing to use it. It is also available for modification. The biggest stumbling block to its use is the question of support. Although forums exist for problem solving and collaborative upgrades, there are no real guarantees or truly accountable software providers.