16 Types of Application Software with Examples

We are surrounded by Application software!

Every day we use numerous application software to ease our tasks and increase our efficiency.

From Netflix, which we use to binge-watch our favorite series, to sending an email via Gmail, are some examples of application software. In this digital age where we are surrounded by technology, different types of software can help you to grow your business 10 times.

Global revenue for enterprise application software will reach 421 billion U.S. dollars in 2025. With suitable application software for your business, you can make your business more scalable and double your ROI.

But before building an application software for your business, you must understand what application software is and the various categories of application software. Our comprehensive guide mentions an explanatory list of application software with examples and how they can benefit your business.

If you are in a dilemma about choosing between ready-made apps or customized software applications, we have got you covered to make an informed decision.

Let's begin by understanding what exactly application software is.

Application software is a program that is built to perform specific functions. For instance, entertainment, communication, education, business, and other functions. The primary reason to design them is to make end users' lives hassle-free and increase their productivity.

From tracking time, jotting down notes, setting the alarm to doing calculations, etc., application software is there to ease your life. They can also be referred to as productivity programs. Each program is developed to assist users with particular specifications.

The functions of application software are not limited to the end user's needs; these applications can have various functions. Here are some of the standard functions of application software that you need to look for:

• Managing resources

• Project management

• Sending out emails, text messages, videos, and audio.

• Provide Education

• Calculating expenses

• Writing reports

• Manipulating Data

As we are done knowing what application software is and some of its functions. Now, we will be taking care of another question that must be popping into your mind right now. 

Though "application software" and "software application" refer to the same thing in practical usage, that's not the case. Let's discuss this further.   

Application Software  

Application Software refers to a class or category of software designed to help users perform specific tasks. This is in contrast to other software categories like system software (which includes operating systems).  

• Examples: Word processors, graphics editors, databases, web browsers, and games. 

• Scope: This term emphasizes the type or category of software. For instance, when distinguishing between system software and application software.  

Software Application  

This often refers to a specific software program that falls under the broader category of application software. It emphasizes the individual software instance or product.  

• Examples: Microsoft Word (a specific software application) falls under word processors (a type of application software). 

• Scope: This term emphasizes a specific software product or instance. It's like pointing out a specific entity within the broader category.  

However, it's important to note that these terms are used interchangeably. The difference is subtle and often unimportant for general discussions. But if you're in a setting where precision is essential, it's good to be aware of the distinctions.

Now, How many types of application software are there exactly? We are answering this in the next section of our guide.

Selecting the correct type of application software for your organization can proactively improve efficiency and save costs. 

However the list of application software can go on and on, but we have tried to mention important ones. 

General Application Software  

General application software addresses a myriad of user needs, streamlining tasks and providing essential functions for both professional and personal contexts. They offer intuitive interfaces and features tailored for specific functions.   

Here's a closer look:  

1. Word Processing Software

These are designed to facilitate the creation, editing, formatting, and printing of text documents.  

• Features: Spell-check, grammar review, text formatting, headers, footers, and integration with other tools. 

• Popular Examples: Microsoft Word, Google Docs, OpenOffice Writer.  

2. Spreadsheet Software

This software is primarily for data organization, mathematical calculations, and statistical analysis.  

• Features: Cells, formula application, chart creation, and data visualization. 

• Popular Examples: Microsoft Excel, Google Sheets, LibreOffice Calc.  

3. Presentation Software

This software assists users in creating visual and textual content presentations. It's used often for meetings, lectures, or webinars.  

• Features: Slide transitions, animations, templates, multimedia integration. 

• Popular Examples: Microsoft PowerPoint, Google Slides, Keynote.  

4. Database Software 

This helps users store, retrieve, modify, and manage vast amounts of data efficiently.  

• Features: Data sorting, query execution, report generation, data security. 

• Popular Examples: Microsoft Access, Oracle, MySQL.  

5. Web Browsers

Web browsers facilitate the access and navigation of the World Wide Web.  

• Features: Tabbed browsing, bookmarks, private mode, extensions/plugins. 

• Popular Examples: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, Microsoft Edge.  

6. Graphics Software

This aids in the creation, editing, and manipulation of images, designs, and illustrations.  

• Features: Layers, brushes, filters, vector drawing, and color manipulation. 

• Popular Examples: Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, CorelDRAW.  

7. Multimedia Software 

These are used to produce, modify, and experience multimedia content such as audio and video.  

• Features: Editing tools, playback controls, codec support, and format conversion. 

• Popular Examples: VLC Media Player, Adobe Premiere Pro, Audacity.  

8. Educational Software

This software provides educational content and interactive experiences to facilitate learning in various subjects.  

• Features: Quizzes, simulations, progress tracking, and interactive lessons. 

• Popular Examples: Duolingo, Khan Academy, Rosetta Stone.  

9. Entertainment Software 

It's primarily for recreation and relaxation. The software ranges from video games to interactive media experiences.  

• Features: Diverse gameplay mechanics, immersive stories, and advanced graphics. 

• Popular Examples: Steam (platform), The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Netflix.  

These software applications exemplify how technology addresses diverse needs, from professional work demands to personal interests, enhancing both productivity and leisure.

Business Application Software  

Business application software equips businesses with tools to streamline processes, enhance productivity, and improve overall operations. As a result, these software solutions play a pivotal role in contemporary business management.   

Let's explore them in detail:  

10. Customer Relationship Management (CRM)  

A CRM facilitates interactions with customers, streamlining sales processes and improving customer service.  

• Features: Contact management, sales forecasting, lead tracking, email automation, and analytics. 

• Popular Examples: Salesforce, HubSpot CRM, Microsoft Dynamics 365.  

11. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)

ERP software helps integrate various business processes into a unified system. This enables real-time insights and data-driven decisions.  

• Features: Financial management, inventory tracking, procurement, order management, and analytics. 

• Popular Examples: SAP ERP, Oracle ERP Cloud, Microsoft Dynamics GP.  

12. Project Management Software

These are tools to plan, execute, and monitor projects, ensuring they're completed on time and within budget. 

• Features: Task assignment, Gantt charts, time tracking, collaboration tools, and milestone tracking. 

• Popular Examples: Trello, Asana, Microsoft Project.  

13. Human Resource Management (HRM) Software  

This software helps streamline employee management, from recruitment to retirement.  

• Features: Applicant tracking, payroll processing, time and attendance tracking, employee self-service portals. 

• Popular Examples: Workday, BambooHR, ADP.  

14. Accounting Software 

This software enables businesses to efficiently manage their finances. This includes maintaining accurate financial records, processing transactions, and generating financial statements.  

• Features: Invoice generation, expense tracking, financial reporting, tax preparation. 

• Popular Examples: QuickBooks, Xero, FreshBooks.  

15. Manufacturing Software

This software assists businesses in overseeing production processes, ensuring efficiency, and quality control. 

• Features: Production scheduling, inventory management, quality assurance, and equipment maintenance. 

• Popular Examples: M1 ERP, Katana Smart Manufacturing Software, NetSuite Manufacturing.  

16. Supply Chain Management (SCM) Software

This facilitates the oversight of materials, information, and finances as they move from supplier to manufacturer to wholesaler to retailer to consumer.  

• Features: Inventory management, order processing, procurement, logistics, and supplier collaboration. 

• Popular Examples: SAP Integrated Business Planning (IBP), Oracle SCM Cloud, JDA Supply Chain.  

Harnessing the power of business application software enables companies to stay agile, competitive, and customer-focused in an increasingly complex market. These application software don't just simplify processes—they often become the backbone of successful enterprises.

More and more companies are investing in building application software.

Here are some of the benefits that can't prevent you from building an application software for your business

1. Better data security

Application software is ultimately designed to maintain a robust data security infrastructure. By integrating sophisticatedly developed application software into your existing business ecosystem, you can leverage the benefit of data security.

2. Flexible operations

As your business grows, your operations increase too. With the rise in the number of processes, you can leverage software that can handle your operations by streamlining them and organizing reports.

3. Confident decision-making

Once you grow and update your business information, all your decisions will be backed by data. You can analyze all the data to make informed decisions and better future forecasts.

4. Enhanced customer service

Precisely made custom application software can double your sales performance. They help you to collect and maintain customer data smartly and, therefore, efficiently improve customer satisfaction. 

5. Improved productivity

When your team's productivity goes into performing mundane and time-consuming tasks, crucial tasks go neglected. As you adapt customized application software, your team's productivity increases.

By now, you should have a clearer grasp of the various types of application software and their transformative impact on businesses.   

At Toobler, we pride ourselves on being at the forefront of application software development in India. With a seasoned team of professionals boasting a wealth of experience across diverse domains, we're poised to bring your unique software vision to life.   

Get in touch with our experts today, and let's sculpt the future of your business together.