Productivity Applications: Pros, Cons, and Their Uses in DFIR.

 

         

   

    People use multiple applications to disseminate information in professional, academic, and personal settings. This can involve word processors, spreadsheets, presentations, and database software—the applications used during the project allowed for different formats while providing similar information. A further examination of these applications will explain their functions and the pros and cons of each and their role in digital forensics. 

    Word processing software is commonly used to create text documents. A user can edit and format text in endless ways, and tables and pictures can be embedded along with text. The more common word-processing applications are Google Docs and Microsoft Word. They are used globally and are very versatile. Digital forensic reports are created in this format. However, they are not good at analyzing data sets or visual presentations.

    Spreadsheet applications work best to analyze data. They primarily function in grids with rows and columns where data can be stored in “cells.”  They are good at organizing and calculating data within the sets. These can process complex formulas, which can become error-prone if the user is not precise. Being precise is important in analysis of data for digital data in forensic outputs. Google Slides and Microsoft Excel are two typical applications.

 

    Microsoft PowerPoint and Google Slides are good programs that allow users to design and deliver presentations. The methods can be text, audio, video, or pictures. Animations can highlight the chosen formats, which can be visually appealing to the viewer. However, if graphics or text are overused, they can overwhelm the receiver. When using these as courtroom demonstrative aids, you will need to ensure that they are kept visually simple, neat, and clean. 

    Databases are mainly used for housing records. They allow the user to set records that generally contain text data. Some databases can include “objects,” audio, video, or photographic images. (Vhaid, F., Lyseck.S, Whealand, N., 2019). Microsoft Access is one example of a database system that a user can create. Although databases are an excellent method for output, they can be complicated to make. Databases are usually a product examined, but can be used to keep records of forensic cases. 

    A word-processing document would be the best method for documenting daily activities, as it is best for writing journal entries, reports, letters, or, in this case, essays. Spreadsheet applications can be used for financial budgeting or, from personal experience, running formulas to calculate skid marks in traffic accident investigations. Presentation software can be used for lectures, training courses, and business proposal software. Databases can be used for customer lists, inventory tracking, and record management systems. 

    These assignments have been instructional in comparing their effectiveness in different use cases. Experience with the different applications assists in selecting the correct one, which is essential for the given task's effectiveness. 

 

References

Vhaid, F., Lyseck.S, Whealand, N. (2019) TEC 101: Fundamentals of Information Technology & Literacy. https://learn.zybooks.com/zybook/TEC101:_Fundamentals_of_Information_Technology_&_Literacy_(TED2447A) 

Microsoft Corporation. (2024). Excel (Microsoft 365 Subscription) [Computer Software]. Microsoft Corporation. https://www.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365/excel