Google Cloud Digital Leader Practice Exam

What term refers to software that is accessible and usable by anyone, with specifications that guide its functionality?

1. Open Source

2. Open Standard

3. Common Software

4. Public API

The correct answer is: Open Standard

The term that refers to software that is accessible and usable by anyone, with specifications that guide its functionality, is "Open Standard." Open Standards are publicly available guidelines or specifications that promote interoperability and compatibility among different systems and software. They ensure that diverse systems can work together, which is fundamental in enabling seamless integration and communication. Open standards are significant because they allow developers to create software without proprietary restrictions, thereby fostering innovation and collaboration across the technology landscape. When an organization adheres to open standards, it can build applications that contribute to a more interconnected and accessible digital ecosystem. In contrast, the other terms—such as open source, common software, and public API—do not fully encapsulate the concept of specifications guiding functionality. Open source refers primarily to software whose source code is made available for anyone to use, modify, or distribute, while a public API allows external parties to interact with software applications. However, neither of these conveys the broader standardization aspect inherent in "Open Standard."