Software that processes data for the user. In the entertainment world, it refers to games (see gaming). In the business world, it refers to the data entry, update, query and report programs that make up the company's payroll, order entry, billing, inventory, human resource and manufacturing systems (see CRM and ERP). The term may also refer to one of the so-called "productivity programs" such as spreadsheets, word processors and database programs. For a list of major application software categories, see application software. See productivity software, application, program and software. Contrast with system program.

This diagram shows the typical application programs that run in a desktop computer. It also shows the major components of the operating system.
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