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When a business wants to invest in software, one of the most common questions they face is Should we develop something bespoke OR should we go with off-the-shelf software?
While answering this question, they often try to compare the cost of bespoke software with the off-the-shelf package without giving any thought to the fact going bespoke means having an opportunity to go one better than the competition. Of course, both have their advantages and disadvantages and cost being a major differentiator.
When it comes to choosing between bespoke vs off-the-shelf software for automating a well regulated and documented business requirement like Accounting, it makes sense to go for off-the-shelf packages as there is no point in trying to re-invent the wheel. Off-the-Shelf software packages are often designed to help with a particular business function for ‘masses’ rather than classes. In order to please the masses, off-the-shelf software vendors will include all the features and functions which would be useful for the majority of users. For a business function like Accounting, it makes perfect sense.
But, when it comes to investing in Software with the objective of managing, controlling or monitoring the business processes and performance, one has to think very carefully before jumping to any conclusions while choosing between bespoke and off-the-shelf software. There are many off-the-shelf products out there that help with various business functions viz. CRM, Stock Control, Quality Management, Reporting, etc. Just like the Accounting packages, vendors aim to please the ‘Masses’ and not ‘Classes’. There is no doubt that these vendors with a large customer base will develop the common bells and whistles required by masses but will this be right for your business?
If you think of the businesses competing with each other as car racers, each one trying to come first and win the business, they buying an off-the-shelf is like buying the exact same car as your opponent…in other words an investment which will at best will only allow you to match your competition but not exceed or beat them.
Today’s software development platforms and frameworks are very mature and as long as you are not planning to challenge the laws of physics, any software feature, function, an app can be developed. The question today is not ‘Can we’ but ‘Should we’
A common misconception about bespoke software is that it’s expensive, difficult to maintain and one will be tied with the developer at the hip for life. To some extent this is true but if you are tied to the hip with an innovative and efficient software development company, they can help you go one better than the competition. If the development company uses open source technologies and follow industry best practices, then almost anyone can maintain it.
Also, almost all bespoke software development companies would be happy to provide a free, no-obligation quotation. If any business is considering investing in Software to increase business efficiency, it’s always worth exploring the bespoke route to see if they can get a competitive advantage and become part of the ‘Classes’ and not follow the ‘Masses’.
Schnell Solutions Limited has helped many businesses develop bespoke software applications that have them transform their business and get a competitive edge.[/vc_column][/vc_row]