Free software as alternatives to commercial in application of Numerical methods and repetitive procedures

Abstract

Computers with the help of proper software usage enables efficiency in work as well as the conducting of experiments, developments, simulations and data processing which allows specific conclusions to be drawn. The programming languages that have been developed in past decades gave computer users more opportunity to think outside the box. Due to the rapid development and complexity of the programming languages and their syntax, the demand for a much faster and simpler problem-solving tool was created in order to cater situations which require the need to have the tool created in the first place. Today, the most popular and sophisticated programme used in industrial environments is Matlab as it is applicable in various fields of sciences - from numerical calculations to complex simulations. However, Matlab is a commercial programme. In order for it to be used, financial incentives must be prioritised which often is a disadvantage for students and educational institutions as it is costly. In this paper a few free software solutions will be considered as alternatives to commercial software solutions.