Application Areas

1. Application Areas CS French Chapter 5

2. Computer Package • a set of programs and associated documentation (manuals etc) to be used for a specific type of problem. • Examples of Packages • AutoCAD - for the production of drawings. • Word Perfect - word processor for producing text documents. • Microsoft Excel- spreadsheet • Microsoft Access - database for information storage and retrieval • Microsoft Worksuite- integrated package: spreadsheet ,WP, database, comms. • Dreamweaver – for creating web pages (like MS Frontpage) • Eudora – email package

3. Criteria for using computersWhy would you choose to computerise a procedure? • Large Volume of work • Accuracy required • Repetitiveness • Same task done over and over. • Complexity • If a task is complex for people to do but decisions are easy for a computer. • Speed required • You need it done in a hurry • Common data • The data for the task is already computerised for a different task • Other factors • technically feasible • cost effective • socially acceptable

4. Common Applications(Business) • Payroll • Stock control • Production and labour control • Accounting and Finance • General Office applications • Word processing, calculations, keeping records, email

5. Common Applications (Engineering / Scientific) • Calculations • (mathematical and statistical) • Design • (CAD) • Measurementand Control • (Robotics, embedded systems, automated systems) • Mathematical modelling • (Prediction eg weather forecasting) • Diagnosis • ( eg medical) • Integrated Applications • Data generated in one task can be used in another • CAD >>>CAM • Design >>> costing