In Japan the English loanword "software" is often used to refer to know-how or intangibles assets. For example one would say, "It is not enough to provide developing countries with loans to build the hardware, (infrastructure ).We must also provide the software.(knowledge regarding how to operate, maintain, and manage the infrastructure.)
Is the same analogy used in the English language or would one have to explain in order to get the meaning across?
Software is used for computer programs only. You would have to explain.