Answer and explanation:
How are the two methods similar? They both apply the fundamentals of triangle geometry in solving the area of a triangle using the formula for area of triangle 1/2×base of triangle×height of triangle.
How are they different? Using coordinate algebra in finding area of a triangle, you would have to measure coordinates(xy coordinates) of a triangle manually on the graph and find y coordinates based on x. If you used a geometry software, it would get these coordinates automatically(based on your graph on the software) and calculate area of triangle using the formula.
Why might coordinate algebra be important in making and using geometry software? A solid grasp of coordinate algebra allows you understand how the geometry software works because it makes use of same geometry fundamentals, making it easier for you to tweak and get the best value out of the software for your geometry calculations.