A computer cannot understand the program in this form, so before the program can be used, it must be translated into a form which the computer can understand. This form is known as the binary format of the program. The program in binary format is intelligible directly to the computer, but is virtually incomprehensible to a human reader. Finally, the binary format of a computer program is specific to a particular type of computer running a particular operating system. Traditional software model Programmers write program in source code.
Program is translated into binary format.
The floppy disks or CD-ROMS with this binary format of the program are sold through computer stores etc. to end users. The computer software maker releases the binary format for sale, but guards the source code and does not release this information to anyone outside the company as this is seen as a strategic asset of the company. This allows the software maker to control the program eg. Hence a user having bought a piece of software is entirely dependent on the company making the software. The advantages of this model are almost entirely biased towards the software maker rather than the end-user.