Hardware and Software in Computer

• Central Processing Unit (CPU): The CPU is the "brain" of the computer responsible for executing instructions and performing calculations.

• Motherboard: The motherboard is the main circuit board of the computer, providing connections and communication between all the
hardware components.

• Random Access Memory (RAM): RAM is the temporary memory used to store data and instructions that the CPU is currently working on.

• Hard Disk Drive (HDD) or Solid-State Drive (SSD): These are storage devices used to store data, programs, and the operating system.

• Graphics Processing Unit (GPU): The GPU is responsible for rendering graphics and is crucial for tasks like gaming, video editing, and
other graphical applications.

• Keyboard and Mouse: Input devices that allow users to interact with the computer.

• Monitor: The display screen that shows the output from the computer.

• Network Interface Card (NIC): A card that allows the computer to connect to a network and access the internet.

• Optical Drives: Devices used to read CDs, DVDs, and sometimes Blu-ray discs.
 Software
• Operating System (OS): The core software that manages computer hardware and provides services to applications. Common OS
include Windows, macOS, Linux, and Android.

• Application Software: Software designed to perform specific tasks or applications for users. Examples include web browsers, word
processors, image editors, and video players.

• Utility Software: Tools designed to help manage and maintain the computer system. Examples include antivirus software, disk
defragmenters, and system backup utilities.

• Device Drivers: Software that allows the operating system to communicate with hardware devices, enabling them to function
correctly.

• Programming Languages: Software used to write and develop other software applications.

• Firmware: Software embedded in hardware devices, such as BIOS/UEFI in the motherboard or firmware in printers.

• Middleware: Software that acts as an intermediary between different software applications and facilitates communication and data
exchange between them.

• Plug-ins and Extensions: Additional software components that extend the functionality of web browsers and other applications.
 Application Software and its Usage in MIS
Application software, also known as application programs or simply "apps," is a type of software designed to
perform specific tasks or applications for users. In the context of Management Information Systems (MIS),
application software plays a crucial role in collecting, processing, storing, and presenting data to support
decision-making and other managerial activities. Here are different types of application software and their usage
in MIS:
• Database Management Systems (DBMS): DBMS software is used to create, manage, and manipulate
databases. It allows users to store, retrieve, and update data in a structured manner.

• Spreadsheet Software: Spreadsheet software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets is commonly used in MIS
to organize and analyze data in tabular form.

• Business Intelligence (BI) Software: BI software is designed to collect, analyze, and present business data to
support decision-making. It can transform raw data into meaningful insights through various tools like
dashboards, data visualization, and reports.
 Application Software and its Usage in MIS
• Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems: ERP systems integrate various business processes and functions,
including finance, human resources, inventory management, procurement, and more.

• Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software: CRM software is used to manage customer interactions, track
sales leads, and maintain customer data. It helps businesses improve customer service, identify sales opportunities,
and enhance customer satisfaction.

• Project Management Software: Project management software allows teams to plan, schedule, track progress, and
collaborate on projects. It helps in resource allocation, task management, and meeting project deadlines.

• Decision Support Systems (DSS): DSS software assists managers in making semi-structured and unstructured
decisions. It combines data analysis, modeling, and simulation techniques to provide insights into complex business
problems.

• Communication and Collaboration Tools: Communication and collaboration software, like email clients, instant
messaging platforms, and video conferencing tools, enhance communication and coordination among team members.
 SDLC
SDLC stands for Software Development Life Cycle. It is a structured process followed by software
development teams to design, develop, test, and deploy high-quality software. SDLC provides a systematic and
organized approach to software development, ensuring that the final product meets the desired requirements and
is delivered on time and within budget. There are several well-known models for SDLC.

Basic Stages includes:

• Design: Once the requirements are clear, the development team creates a detailed design for the software
system. This stage involves designing the architecture, data structures, user interfaces, and other technical
aspects of the software.

• Implementation (Coding): In the implementation phase, the actual coding and programming of the software
take place. The development team follows the design specifications to build the software application or
system.
 SDLC
• Testing: After the implementation, the software undergoes rigorous testing to identify and fix defects, errors,
and bugs. Different types of testing, such as unit testing, integration testing, system testing, and user
acceptance testing, are performed to ensure the software meets quality standards.

• Deployment: Once the software passes all testing phases and meets the required quality standards, it is
deployed to the production environment. Users can now access and use the software.

• Maintenance: After deployment, the software requires ongoing maintenance and support to address any issues
that may arise during its operational use. Updates, bug fixes, and enhancements are made to keep the
software functioning effectively and securely.
 Common SDLC Models
• Waterfall Model: The Waterfall Model is a linear and sequential approach, where each stage is completed
before moving on to the next. It is ideal for projects with well-defined requirements and stable scope.

• Agile Model: Agile is an iterative and incremental approach that emphasizes collaboration, adaptability, and
customer feedback. Development occurs in small increments or sprints, allowing for continuous
improvement.

• V-Model: The V-Model is an extension of the Waterfall Model that emphasizes testing at each stage of
development. It ensures that testing activities are aligned with the corresponding development phases.

• Spiral Model: The Spiral Model combines iterative development with risk assessment and mitigation. It
involves multiple cycles of planning, risk analysis, engineering, testing, and evaluation.

• Iterative Model: The Iterative Model involves repeating the development phases in cycles, with each cycle
improving upon the previous one. It allows for feedback and changes throughout the development process.