Final answer:
Desktop publishing software is considered application software. It helps users to perform specific tasks like creating brochures with features that allow for professional typesetting and design. This is different from system software which runs the computer itself.
Step-by-step explanation:
The software that a marketing manager uses to create advertising brochures falls into the category of desktop publishing software. This type of software is considered to be application software because it is designed for end users to perform specific tasks like creating documents, brochures, or other types of publications. Unlike system software which runs the computer and its systems, application software directly helps users carry out tasks.
Early word processors allowed the creation and editing of text documents, but with limited design capabilities. However, as the technology evolved, desktop publishing software incorporated advanced features such as variable width fonts and WYSIWYG interfaces, which means 'what you see is what you get.' These advancements brought users closer to producing professional-quality documents that have many characteristics of typeset documents. Essentially, it enables marketing professionals to design and produce materials that meet the high standards of print quality, often with the ability to manipulate graphics and layout in sophisticated ways.
Therefore, the correct answer is d. Application software. It supports the marketing manager's need to create visually appealing and professionally typeset advertising materials to reach potential customers.