Integrated software and software "suites"

There is a difference between "integrated software" and "software suites" or "bundles."

Integrated software is a single program that contains "modules" for many popular business applications such as word processing, spreadsheet, database management, graphics and communications. The user can easily switch from one type of application to another without exiting the program.

The advantages of integrated software are:

  1. Low cost
  2. Only one program to install and learn
  3. Consistent interface from one module to another
  4. The ability to share information between modules
  5. Usually only one reference manual
  6. Ideal for personal use or small business
The disadvantages are:
  1. Each module is limited to basic functions
  2. May not be compatible with other popular business software
  3. Not suited for large companies or professional use
Integrated software usually costs around $200 and offers basic word processing, spreadsheet, database management, graphics and communications features. To obtain the same assortment of features by purchasing individual applications, you would have to buy five programs at a total cost of over $1000.00!

Integrated software might not be such a bargain for many users because a lot of features are left out in order to keep the cost down. Many users eventually outgrow this type of program and end up buying the full-featured equivalent software.

The solution might be "software suites" or "bundled software." A "suite" is a collection of the full-featured versions of each software application - word processing, spreadsheet, database management, graphics, communications and sometimes organizers. These applications are from the same software manufacturer and are packaged together in a large box and sold at prices that are much lower than if they were purchased individually - usually less than half of the original collective price! The software applications contained in a suite or bundle are the same applications a professional user might purchase individually. No corners have been cut, and additional features may have been added such as a "common interface" that allows any of the programs to be accessed from the same "main menu," a consistent screen layout used by each of the programs, and the ability to easily exchange data from one program to another.

The advantages of bundled software suites are:

  1. Low cost compared to buying each application separately
  2. Option to install all of the programs at the same time or only the programs you want to use
  3. Consistent interface from one application to another
  4. The ability to share information between applications
  5. Future upgrades can update each application all at the same time
  6. Ideal for personal use, professional use, large or small business
  7. Each application is the full-featured version
The disadvantages are:
  1. High initial cost
  2. All applications are from the same manufacturer - you might prefer a word processor from one company, a spreadsheet from a different manufacturer, etc.
  3. May be purchasing more software than you actually need
  4. Installation of the entire suite of applications takes up a large amount of storage space on your internal hard disk
  5. Several large manuals to study if you plan to master each application, or the package might not include printed manuals in order to keep the cost low
Some examples of integrated software are Microsoft Works and Lotus Works. Some examples of software suites are Microsoft Office, OpenOffice.org (Sun Star Office) and Corel WordPerfect Office.

Whether you decide to purchase an integrated software program, a bundled software suite, or purchase each of your applications separately, it is reassuring to know that you have so many options available.

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