Software Simplified

What Is Software?

A good rule of thumb is:If you can delete it, it's software. If not, it's hardware. Software can be removed (as many of us know too well) with the click of a button, while hardware requires a little more physical effort to get rid of (a little water or dust can make it malfunction just fine, though). The programs, data, applications, and operating systems that work on your hardware are collectively referred to as software.

What Are The Different Types Of Software?

Software can sometimes be hard to classify (especially with the advent of the Web), but there are some basic types to consider:

Operating systems

An operating system ( OS ) works directly with your computer hardware. The OS (ex. Windows, MacOS, Linux, and Unix) allocates resources, such as RAM, disk space, and processing power to applications software. Without an OS, your hardware is pretty useless -- its just a blank slate. If you are running a network, it is important to watch for incompatibilities between different operating systems. Some operating systems "talk" to each other easily, while others speak entirely different languages (and there isn't an interpreter available).

• See article Desktop Operating System Guide for more information.

Data

Classified as software, data is digitized information. Data can be almost anything; names, addresses, documents, virus definitions, etc. can all be considered data.

Applications software

The majority of familiar software falls under the heading of applications software. Word processors, Internet browsers, database applications, spreadsheets, email clients, and desktop publishing programs are all considered applications software.

Application service providers

A relatively new phenomenon, application service providers (ASPs) are web-based programs that provide specific functionality (i.e. email, calendar, file storage, etc.) over the Internet.

• See article An Introduction to Application Service Providers for more information.

Where Can You Get Software for Your NPO?

There are several options for obtaining software for an NPO. It all depends on what you are looking for, how much time you have to researching your options, and of course, how much money you have to spend.

Discount programs

There are a variety of software programs available that provide discounts to nonprofit organizations. CompuMentor, Gifts In Kind International, and Consistent Computer Bargains all provide substantial discounts to nonprofits. You will need a 501(c)(3) letter from the fun folks at the IRS; there are also restrictions imposed by the corporations donating the software.

• See article on Get Your Discounts Here for more information.

Did someone say free software?

For the enterprising audience, there are thousands and thousands of open source and freeware applications that can do pretty much anything you can imagine (and some things you may never have imagined). Some are easier to use than others. Be sure that the freeware you choose will work on your current operating platform.

• See article "Did Somebody Say Free?" for more information.

Donation programs

For those with some time on their hands, soliciting software donations is an excellent way to pass the time. There are many software donation programs available for those of you that are lucky enough to possess tax-exempt status and a good form filer on staff.

• See article "Ain't Too Proud Beg (for a Software Donation)" for more information.

Got money: buy it

If you can't find a discount on the software you need, get it for free, or get it donated, there is always the option of doing what the rest of the ordinary public does - get your credit card out and buy it. Shop around -- you can try your local brick and mortar store or surf the web for deals.

• See article "Choosing Software That Fits Your Needs" for more information.

Some Final Software Thoughts

Software is the key to making your hardware work for you. Many times nonprofits invest a great of planning and money into their hardware purchases, but neglect to think about software. However, state-of-the-art computers do very little good without an operating system in control and programs to run (or crash). Taking the time to assess your software needs and plan your acquisitions can help keep your organization from making a bad decision and wasting money.