Answer to Question #318215 in Computer Networks for lebo

Question

 Critically analyse the difference between horizontal application software and vertical application software

Answer 1

Differences between Horizontal and Vertical Application Software

• Horizontal application software comprises all software that have a general-purpose and penetrates almost various or all domains existing in the market. On the other hand, vertical application software is industry specific thus it deals with only particular and a few areas in the market.
• In terms of emphasis, horizontal application software focuses on extensive categories that go beyond industry boundaries for instance electricity and utilities. In contrast, the development of vertical application software aims at serving the clienteles’ core group and focuses on the growth of niche industries.
• The software belonging to horizontal applications has high flexibility and can be used by a range of various businesses and industries hence have a wider approach while the software belonging to vertical applications have limited market use therefore cannot be applied in other sectors.
• Horizontal application approach uses specific technology in automating daily business functions while vertical application software intends to sell related solutions that are created and marketed using the same method.
• In the current market, horizontal application software has experienced a gradual expansion as opposed to vertical application software in which almost all e-markets are following a vertical structure.
• In terms of examples, horizontal application software consist of CRM software, spreadsheets and word processors while vertical application software examples includes applications built for manufacturing, banking, transportation programs, insurance, banking and retail.