A computer is an essential tool for business, offering a wealth of applications that are used to increase productivity and communication. One of the most commonly used is business application software, which can be found in most workplaces today. In this article we will discuss what is business computer applications and its functions, types and classifications.
Application software is a program that performs specific tasks following a user input. It is generally classified as a first- or end-user program that allows users to interact directly with it through a Graphic User Interface (GUI). Some popular examples of business computer applications include word processing, electronic spreadsheets and presentations.
The earliest business computer applications were developed to automate monotonous white-collar work, transforming the office into a highly productive workspace. Some of the most famous early business applications included word processors, which led to the decline of IBM typewriters, and mathematical spreadsheet programs, like Lotus 1-2-3 and Microsoft Excel. Later on, the industry shifted towards globalization, with the appearance of management tools like SAP software, which coordinated a supply-chain of vendors in order to streamline factory production.
More recently, technological advancements have allowed business application software to mimic physical environments in a virtual manner. This has become an extremely useful tool for industrial training and in sectors like agriculture, engineering, education, and economics. The Computer Applications for Business curriculum at ECPI includes courses that focus on using various forms of business application software, providing an excellent opportunity for students to gain hands-on experience with modern office technology systems and procedures.