Documenting a Day | Application Software

 All types of application software were developed for certain purposes in the field of data processing and presentation.  The main purpose of Word processing software, including Microsoft Word and Google Docs, is to develop, modify and arrange text documents. These applications help the user to organize the written content in a systematic way and also offer the user the ability to make the content more presentable to readers through formatting. Spreadsheet applications like Microsoft Excel and Google Sheets are used in organizing numerical data, performing calculations and presenting the data in forms of charts or graphs to represent the information in a better way. Presentation software including Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides assists the user in developing multimedia slideshows that are often used in educational or professional settings.  Database applications like Microsoft Access and MySQL are used in the collection, storage, and retrieval of structured data in the best possible manner and thus useful in handling large amounts of data.

                                                                 

All the applications are useful but all of them are beneficial and have their own set of advantages and disadvantages. As for Word processors, they are very versatile and easy to use and are perfect for writing and arranging text; however, they cannot handle large amounts of data or perform sophisticated analyses.  Spreadsheets are very efficient in working with numerical data and performing calculations, but they are not very efficient in handling long written texts. Presentation software is useful for capturing the attention of the audience with the help of graphics, but it is restricted in the amount of content that can be developed. Database applications help in organizing information and performing complex operations on the data while at the same time, they are not very useful for documenting processes. To document daily activities, the most appropriate application for the purpose is a word processor.  As a daily journal is quite detailed and contains descriptions and reflections, the best platform to structure content so that it is easy to read is a word processor. It enables the user to change the font, include pictures if required, and modify the content easily. Spreadsheets or databases are not appropriate for unstructured data such as text, and word processors offer the required flexibility for narrative-style documentation.   

     

Every application also has its own peculiar situations in which it can be most beneficial to use it. Word processors are most helpful in creating reports, letters, or essays. A student, for example, may write a research paper in a word processor. Spreadsheets are most useful in budgeting and financial planning or keeping track of personal spending. For instance, a small business owner could use a spreadsheet to keep track of their sales and inventory. Presentation software is mainly used in schools and workplaces, including preparing and presenting business plans or teaching slideshows. For example, a marketing team could use PowerPoint to present a new advertising strategy. Database applications are usually employed by businesses and other organizations in order to collect and organize data in a systematic manner. For instance, a hospital can employ a database to manage patient information and treatment history.