• Software that allows the computer to be applied to a particular problem
• Software used for a particular purpose or application e.g. Processing orders, payroll, stock control, word processing etc.

Types of application software:

• Package software: the programs and the documentation for a piece of software.
• Generic software: applications package that can be used for a variety of tasks and used in a lot of areas of work.
• Integrated software: application package consisting of software for a variety of different purposes e.g. Microsoft office – word processing software, database (excel), PowerPoint.
• Specific software: software that performs one particular task.
• bespoke software: software that is tailor made for a specific purpose or organisation.
• Off -the shelf software: software that has not been developed for a particular purpose.