INTE 112: Introduction to Software

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts, quality characteristics, classifications, delivery models, licensing, and visual architecture diagrams from Lecture 1.

Software

A collection of computer programs, data structures, procedures, and associated documentation that instruct a computer system on how to perform specific tasks.

Hardware

The physical and tangible components of a computer system, such as the processor, memory, storage devices, and input/output peripherals.

Functionality

The extent to which software provides features and services that satisfy stated and implied user requirements.

Reliability

The ability of software to perform consistently without failure over a defined period.

Usability

A measure of how easily users can learn, understand, and operate a software system.

Efficiency

How well software utilizes system resources such as processing power, memory, and network bandwidth.

Maintainability

The ease with which software can be modified to correct errors, improve performance, or adapt to new requirements.

Portability

The degree to which software can operate across different platforms or environments.

System Software

Programs that manage computer hardware and provide a platform on which application software can run, operating primarily in the background.

Application Software

Software designed to help users perform specific tasks by interacting directly with users and addressing practical needs.

On-Premise Software

Software installed and operated on local computers or organizational servers, where users or institutions are responsible for installation, updates, security, and maintenance.

Cloud-Based Software (SaaS)

Software hosted on remote servers and accessed via the internet, typically structured on a subscription basis rather than permanent purchases.

Hybrid Software Delivery

A delivery approach combining on-premise and cloud-based models, retaining sensitive data locally while using cloud services for collaboration.

Software License

A legal agreement that defines how software may be used, modified, and distributed.

Proprietary Software

Software owned by a vendor or organization where users purchase usage rights, but source code access and modification rights are restricted.

Open-Source Software

Software that allows users to view, modify, and redistribute source code under defined licensing terms, promoting transparency and collaboration.

Freeware

Software distributed at no cost, typically without access to source code or modification rights.

Usability Evaluation Model

A circle diagram listing 12 evaluation criteria for usability, including User Control & Freedom, Recognition Rather than Recall, Mental Model, Clarity, Simplicity & Aesthetic Integrity, Accuracy, Error Prevention & Handling, Consistency & Predictability, User Support, Forgiveness, Feedback, and Accessibility Compliance.

Computing System Layer Architecture

A structural diagram illustrating Hardware (CPU, Memory, I/O) surrounded by System Software (Operating System, Utilities), which is surrounded by Application Software (Office, Photoshop, Calculator, Games, Browser).

On-Premises vs Cloud Base Comparison

A diagram contrasting On-Premises infrastructure (high hardware cost, medium backup cost, high maintenance cost) with Cloud Base infrastructure (low hardware cost, backup & recovery cost, security compliances).

V-Model

A development lifecycle diagram matching development phases (Requirement analysis, System design, Architecture design, Module design, Coding) with corresponding testing phases (Unit, Integration, System, Acceptance testing).