Softwaresiden

Softwaresiden is a term used in IT discourse to refer to the software aspects of a system, as distinct from the hardware side. In this usage, software encompasses the architecture, interfaces, data models, services, and the lifecycle management of the programs and components that run, integrate, and maintain the system.

Origin and scope: The expression is common in Scandinavian languages, where words meaning “software” and “side” are combined to form a practical shorthand. It is not a formal technical category or standard, but a descriptive label used in technical writing and discussions to distinguish the software layer from the hardware layer.

Key components: Softwaresiden typically includes software architecture, application programming interfaces (APIs), middleware, data flows and models, deployment pipelines, version control, testing, security, and governance. It emphasizes how software interacts with other system parts, how components are composed, and how changes are managed over time.

Context and usage: The term is used when discussing system boundaries, responsibilities between software teams and hardware teams, or when comparing concerns such as software survivability, scalability, and interoperability with the underlying hardware or infrastructure. It can appear in discussions of embedded systems, IoT, cloud-based architectures, or enterprise integrations.

Applications: In embedded and IoT contexts, the term often refers to the software running on devices plus the cloud or backend services that communicate with it. In enterprise settings, it describes the application layer and its integration with data stores, services, and external partners.

Limitations: Softwaresiden is not a formal standard or universally defined term. Its meaning can vary by organization or context, so documentation should clarify the intended scope when used.