A software package is a group of programs with a common purpose, including source code and documentation. They can have one main program or multiple specialized executables. All-in-one packages are user-friendly, while fragmented packages are for computer-savvy users. Some packages use unique code, while others combine existing programs. Open source software has led to knowledge sharing and instrumental software development.
A software package is a group of programs that are bundled together to serve a common purpose. Often, a software package will also include the source code that created the executable programs, as well as a variety of documentation for the programs themselves. Some software packages will also include sample files which can further illustrate how the other components in the package work.
The components of a software package can do significantly different things, but all of the components in the package come together as a unified whole. Some software packages have one main program that encapsulates all the smaller programs, while others take a more fragmented approach and have multiple small, specialized executables for different purposes. There are pros and cons to each approach, as well as specific audiences that benefit from it.
Packages that encapsulate all of their functionality into one big program are useful for most computer users. They are usually easy to install, relatively easy to understand, and fairly easy to run. Sometimes, a user may download add-ons for them, but all of this is done behind the scenes with minimal interaction and effort on that user’s part. All-in-one software packages like these are available for many purposes, from document management to 3D modeling and image rendering.
A software package that retains its more fragmented functionality is often aimed at more computer-savvy users. These packages will often have command-line tools, as well as extensive documentation and highly flexible features. Changes to these packages usually have to be done by manipulating the raw directory structures or downloading a new version of the package entirely. Add-ons are not that common for these package types. Bundled software packages like these are often targeted at academics and engineers, for purposes such as analyzing biological data and creating new software programs.
Some software packages contain completely unique code, while others incorporate existing programs to combine the functionality of existing algorithms. The debate between these two methodologies is ongoing. Some programmers prefer to write their own code for everything and some prefer to link multiple existing programs together. There are many packages that use all sorts of frameworks, and both methodologies can be used to build a successful software suite.
As the open source software movement expanded, more and more programs, algorithms, and software packages became free to use in new software without licensing concerns. In the scientific field, for example, many new algorithms and programs are published with the expectation that they will be freely used not only for analysis, but also for the construction of new programs. A new software package can easily be built or modeled on an old one, and this knowledge sharing has become instrumental in software development.
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