A software system is a system based on software forming part of a computer system (a combination of hardware and software). The term software system is often used as a synonym of computer program or software. The term software system is related to the application of systems theory approaches in software engineering context. This approach is often used to study large and complex software, because it focuses on the major components of software and their interactions. The term software system is also related to the field of software architecture.
Major categories of software systems include application software, programming software and system software, although the distinction can sometimes be difficult. Examples of software systems include computer reservations system, air traffic control software, military command and control systems, telecommunication networks, web browsers, content management systems, database management systems, expert systems, spreadsheets, theorem provers, window systems, word processors, etc. Software systems are an active area of research for groups interested in software engineering in particular and systems engineering in general.
The Journal of Systems and Software covers software systems in a software engineering context.
