May 20, 2012

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Software, Explained

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Image by FabioHofnik via Flickr

There is a misconception among the masses – those individuals unaware of the intricacies that dominate their computers, the essential (but too often overlooked) components that define software and its abilities. Programs, despite the assumptions, are not universal, extensions of the same needs, the same standards. Data is instead filtered through a variety of methods; each meant to ensure that a hard-drive does not collapse beneath the weight of its user’s demands. Software is not simply a name for every application. It is instead a diverse collection of intents. And understanding the difference between those intents is necessary. They must be learned before they can be used… or fixed.

It is a common error to attempt the same solutions on every piece of software. This only leads to complications, though. There are three distinct categories to be considered and each should be recognized for its particular duties. This is the only way to guarantee issues being solved. Should any appear, remember:

1. System software. Offering a foundation of support, system software provides aid throughout the entire computer. It controls the hardware, maintaining all functions and security procedures. It also determines where resources should be sent, should any problems occur, and controls memory. It is the most valuable of all elements.

2. Programming software. Ensuring that applications succeed, programming software offers assistance to all developmental components; such as linkers and compilers. It keeps all internal programs functioning. It is not to be confused with system software, which deals specifically with hardware. They are separate entities, despite their similar functions.

3. Application software. Unlike its counterparts, application software does not entail security issues or computer concerns. It instead deals only with the task-based functions; such as streaming videos, uploading images or creating spreadsheets. It is the most common of the three and the one most recognized by users.

Understanding the (sometimes subtle) difference between these programs is essential for any individual–however infrequent their time may be on the computer. Learn what these softwares represent and how they ultimately relate to you.

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Filed Under: Software Systems Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Building Software: The User Choice

The Inform 7 IDE on Mac OS X showing source co...
Image via Wikipedia

You are not a programmer. This is a truth you have long since accepted. Your computer is not an extension of yourself, with fingers and keys blurred to perfect harmony, a screen reflecting your every command before it’s given. Your skills (you offer that name sparingly, embarrassed that it is close to a deception) are meager. Software eludes you; source codes confuse; and it is considered a triumph if you manage to keep the Internet from stalling. You have no understanding of applications or their meanings. You cannot create and redefine… except you already do.

Software is not beyond you. It is instead ingrained within your every gesture, refocused to your specific needs. While you may not be crafting endless strings of code or solving the riddles of functionality, you are still programming. It is a process called End User Development; and through it are the unexpected ways to utilize your system and its many tasks.

End User Development, explained simply (as you always wish your computer’s components to be), is a series of scripts that are manipulated daily by you. These applications are not filled to complex syntax. They are instead items like templates, basic HTML for blogging and spreadsheets. These are learning softwares that can be changed each time they are opened. They are found throughout your system and can be tailored to all of your requirements – such as when you create a file directory or stream a video game. They are easy and immediate.

And, because of this, they are often ignored.

End User Development is mistaken by many as little more than software certainty. It is, however, the individual choosing to reprogram each function, to make the necessary choices. And, while these are small changes, they are still vital to creating a personalized experience.

You are a programmer. You just didn’t realize it. Now you can.

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Filed Under: Developing Tools Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

The Virtual Marketplace

The days of waking up early on Saturday to hit yard sales are over. Thanks to the Internet and the virtual marketplace, more people are turning to Websites when it comes to selling those old skis, doilies and the loads of unwanted baby clothes that have amassed, among all of the other unused items taking up space in your closets, attic, basement and garage.

Let’s face it, we all have items that we want to purge, and while regularly donating items is a great and charitable way of de-cluttering while giving, there are just some items that you would prefer to sell than donate. Consider that camera that’s in great condition, but was set aside because you received an upgrade, or that expensive dress that your daughter only wore once, then grew out of. Sure, you could try taking them to a consignment shop, but why not try your luck at being an online merchant and peddling them on the Web?

Sure, there are a few steps involved, but selling items online is a fairly painless process. If you’re heading in that direction, be prepared to provide a description, price and a photo for each item that you’re planning to sell. Also, you need to consider whether you want to sell your items outright, or whether you would rather sell them via an online auction. Oh, and of course you’ll have to establish how items will be shipped and paid for, but adding those features to an online marketplace is simple and requires just a few steps.

All things considered, it sure beats setting up loads of tables, tagging each item and parking yourself in the sun all day while you wait for shoppers to drive by. Plus, you get to expand your customer base by allowing people from all over the world to peruse the merchandise. According to a recent poll, the Internet attracts more than 132 million shoppers a year, and that’s just in the U.S. That’s a lot more exposure than a few homemade signs on a telephone post and an ad in the local paper could do.

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Filed Under: Developing Tools Tagged With: , ,

How Payday Loans Can be Exceptionally Helpful for Unexpected Expenses

When an unexpected expense occurs, it may often strike with fear, worry and panic — especially when a person does not have any saved money to spare. What if my Linux operating system crashes? How can I purchase a new Linux operating system if mine goes bad?

Luckily, there is a way that an individual can receive some money right away without having to fill out pages and pages of applications. Payday loans are simple: a person fills out some basic information (online) and sends it away to a company that specializes in granting emergency or short-term loans. People who are looking for loans that are less than $500 (in total) will often receive approval and get their money in less than an hour from start to finish.

As stated above, the process of receiving the money starts by a person filling out an application. The questions typically address an individual’s income, their address, age, and a few other details. It is important that a person that wishes to receive the money fast, choose direct deposit as the method for getting the loan. For loans in excess of $500, more detailed information, such as providing information contained in a bank statement, will be required. That being said, the process is still very easy.

Websites that offer these loans can be found almost anywhere on the internet. Many lenders are dedicated to giving these simple loans to people who find themselves in a moment of need. Many of these sites all appear very similar, so it is important that a person double-check the lender and ensure that they are legitimate.

Also, because the loans are for relatively small amounts, there usually isn’t a credit check on these types of loans. As mentioned above, these lenders require minimal information to be released. Easy. Fast. Reliable. Because of these three reasons, people are able to get the money they need when they need it.

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Filed Under: Tips & Tricks Tagged With: , , , ,

How Open Source Helps Business

Businesses constantly need to search for solutions to increase their efficiency in ways both big in small–from the equipment its employees use to the software that equipment runs. Open source software presents itself as an intriguing solution because it can potentially increase efficiency in more ways than one.

Because all businesses have different needs–needs that also differ between divisions and individual employees–the ability to customize is a substantial asset to the workplace. Open source software can conform to the user rather force the user to conform to the program. This way the program can be manipulated to better accomplish the specific goals of the company. In addition, this can limit potential technical problems and increase needed functionality.

In relation, open source can be utilized on different platforms. This allows a business to maintain a sense of Independence. It will no longer be required to purchase only certain computer models and force each employee to uniformly use only that kind of device–be it PC, Mac, etc. In turn, this can save your business money.

And there is no better way to save money than by outfitting your business for free. Buying software can be expensive, and based on the number of employees, it can be extremely expensive. This will only rise as your company expands, which can then limit growth as it affects operation costs. Opens source is free, meaning significant savings that can trickle down to customers or support new infrastructure.

As an example, take the email client. It is something every business uses and every employee uses, which also means they may have a comfortable relationship with the current system. Thus, it is imperative to find a solution that can match their preferences. Luckily, there are many different open source email clients with different features to match your staff’s personal needs. And with an open source email client you eliminate the need of per user license agreements to save money and employees will be allowed to access their accounts at any work station to increase efficiency.

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Filed Under: Software Development Tagged With: ,