Choose two similar operating systems to evaluate. You could compare the capabilities of the Android mobile operating system with the most recent version of the iPhone operating system (IPhone OS). The source of your information is primarily the websites of the products, as well as any review and information pages created by third parties. Elements to consider for comparison between the operating systems:
- Is the software restricted to one type of hardware or computing device? If so, what are the ramifications of that?
- What are the costs for the system? Even if the software is free, are there associated costs to consider?
- How well does the software connect with other pieces of software or user apps?
- How well does the system allow users to migrate or sync data and apps between devices?
- How reliable and scalable is the system?
- How much drain and strain does the system place on hardware resources?
- Where are the programs and data stored - on in-house servers, cloud computing services, individual computing devices? What is the impact of that on users and IT staff?