Glossary: Custom Software
From Merriam-Webster Dictionary:
Main Entry: custom
Function: adjective
1 : made or performed according to personal order
2 : specializing in custom work or operation
Main Entry: software
Function: noun
Something used or associated with and usually contrasted with hardware: as a : the entire set of programs, procedures, and related documentation associated with a system and especially a computer system; specifically : computer programs b : materials for use with audiovisual equipment
Custom software is a software application designed and built to individual specifications. The specifications may include system requirements such as hardware platform and operating system, software environment such as required language and relational database, and specific business requirements. Additional specifications may include user interface design, reporting requirements, and software integration rules.
Custom software can be developed for a variety of disciplines including:
- Operating Systems:
Software development built to influence or change the behavior of the system operating system.
- Scientific Applications:
Custom software development intended for scientific and mathematical applications. Scientific software development is often performed using specialized software languages designed to handle complex mathematical formulas, high degrees of precision, and specialized scientific terminology.
- Business Software:
Custom business software is designed and built to handle unique business requirements. Custom software applications include finance/accounting, CRM/customer contact, warehouse management, and custom Internetsoftware. Common languages for businesssoftware development include Visual Basic and ASP.NET. Custom business software is normally constructed using a relational database.
