“Plug It In, Plug It In”

Anyone who has used a computer has probably heard the term ‘plug-in.’ while the idea is often confused with plug and play technology, which allows computer users to use a new device without installing any complicated software or drivers, plug-ins, are actually a pretty simple, if neat, idea. The basic definition of a plug-in is a piece of software that adds additional functionality to a larger application. That definition doesn’t do the concept justice.

Plug-ins do provide users additional functionality. This is one of the most attractive features of these nifty programs. A great example is a plug-in for an application like PhotoShop which may add additional filters and techniques to the larger application. Plug-ins are also a popular addition to web browsers. Many users find that installing search engine plug-ins is useful and helpful. In short, plug-ins make the applications used on a daily basis more useful.

If added functionality isn’t enough, the way that plug-ins function certainly wins over users. Many of the most common applications like browsers and photo editors are large pieces of software. As such, they take up space, require a power jolt from the system and can affect system performance. Adding on additional features at the application level would do little more than make the program even bigger. Plug-ins allow users to have all the added functionality without creating monster sized programs.

From a scientific perspective, plug-ins and the larger programs they work with have a symbiotic relationship. The plug-in cannot function on its own. It must be attached to a larger application to function. As for the larger application, while they do not need plug-ins, the additional functionality makes the application more attractive and useful to users.

Perhaps, like the well known commercial, more users should simply, “plug it in, plug it in.”