Custom Software
Whether you are trying to automate business processes, create unique data structures, or improve employee productivity, custom software may be the right solution. It may take weeks or months to design, but a custom software solution can provide your company with long-term efficiency and cost savings. Custom software also allows you to add more security measures than off-the-shelf products typically offer, making it harder for hackers to penetrate your system.
Some companies may benefit from a combination of custom and off-the-shelf solutions. For example, a retail company that already uses an off-the-shelf inventory management system could add custom code to make it more efficient for managing product availability across all online channels. However, an ecommerce company that requires a complex pricing engine that adjusts in real-time based on outside pricing data and market trends may be better off with a custom solution from the start.
The best way to decide if you need Custom software is to evaluate your company’s unique needs and the current state of existing technology. Then, determine how a custom software solution would improve your processes and solve specific problems that off-the-shelf solutions don’t address.
How to Decide If You Need Custom Software
It’s important to remember that custom software can be more expensive than off-the-shelf solutions, but only initially. Once the software is implemented, it can save time and money by increasing efficiency and eliminating problems that were previously unavoidable. In addition, because you own the custom software outright, you won’t have to worry about paying subscription fees for a solution that may not work for your business in the future.
In some cases, you can even use the software to gain a competitive advantage. For instance, if you can produce a custom solution that addresses a problem that your competitors aren’t using, it may give you an edge over them in terms of both efficiency and customer satisfaction.
Another important consideration is how much you want to control the software. If you need a solution that’s highly customizable and can be adjusted to your company’s needs, custom software is a good option. However, if you have limited technical resources in-house, custom software may be too much of a project to manage in-house.
If you decide to move forward with a custom software solution, it’s important to communicate with your developers clearly about what is required and the expected outcomes. Frequent modifications and revisions can increase costs and decrease the speed of development, so it’s essential to define the scope of your project early on and stick with it. Also, be sure to agree on a clear timeline and budget before starting development. Doing so will avoid unexpected expenses down the road and ensure that your final solution meets the expectations of your organization. If you do require a custom software solution, a partner like SOLTECH can help you find the right fit for your business and deliver a product that will meet your company’s unique needs. Contact us to learn more.
