This week we conclude a series considering the essential services the average person should expect from a computer, and some of the choices that are available. The intention was to outline the diversity of solutions and to build up a picture of what a well-functioning and reasonably up-to-date computer looks like. Having considered an Office Suite, a web browser, email, Internet security and various supporting utilities, we come to “the rest”.
So what else should you expect from a computer besides word-processing, spreadsheets, web browsing and email (all safely protected from viruses, spyware and infiltrators)? Here of course the true power of the 'personal computer' makes itself obvious – there are thousands upon thousands of applications available. There are games, digital photo managers, video editors, finance managers, instant messagers, virtual phones, video conferencers, DVD players, time and calendar managers, computer-based courses and tests, e-book readers, encyclopaedias, faxing and a wealth of other software. You would be hard-pressed to think of something that can be done with software which is not already out there to download or buy.
Some of this software is very specific, created for an exact purpose. Some of it tries to cater for everyone everywhere for a particular generic need. Some of it is created by professionals with large-company backing and support, some of it is created by very small or single-person teams working on their own. There is of course a great deal of software created by amateurs, and some of it is truly dreadful – failing to carry out its intended purpose, or very difficult to use, or both. However, much of it is very good and getting better in an increasingly competitive world.
Some software is free (as in 'no charge'), some software is free (as in 'freedom', usually known as open source software), a lot is shareware (pay a small sum if you like the software and want to remove the annoying ads or “Buy Now” messages), and some needs to be purchased up front. Generally, software is available to trial before needing to hand over money, and it is certainly a good idea to try out some software before buying it no matter what the recommendations – what one person finds “intuitive” may not be for another.
So ultimately any other software that may be on a computer will reflect the needs, interests and activities of its user(s). The point here is that the computer is probably capable of doing a lot more than is usually recognised – although it may take research, a bit of money and some learning to take full advantage.
