Do custom software solutions really outdo off-the-shelf software? Is it worth the investment? What am I gaining when I opt for custom software?
You may be at a crossroads in your business where these are the questions that you’re asking yourself. Custom software solutions are designed software applications that are specific to meeting the needs of a specific user, group of users, or entire organization. Most businesses outsource development experts to build a customized software solution from start to finish. Not many companies have the man-power in-house to do such a thing, since a majority of SMBs typically have only one person to take care of all their IT needs.
When Is It Time To Invest & Develop In Your Own Custom Software Solutions?
Here are some questions to consider when you are considering custom software solutions:
- Do you want to expand your business?
- Do you have an easy-to-use, consolidated platform to communicate with customers and colleagues?
- Are you relying on multiple software applications to accomplish one thing?
- Could you replace any of your processes that are manual? Or ones that are simply not meeting your needs any longer?
- Are any of your processes inefficient, disjointed, or slow?
- If you had an automated solution, would your data be more up-to-date and accurate?
- Would a new capability or functionality improve your competition?
If any of these answers were “yes”, it’s time for your organization to get custom software solutions. Custom software can benefit you in all of the above questions. You may even feel a return on this investment quicker than you think. However, you must be prepared in knowing that this process is not quick. It’s an extended process, but worth it in the end.
What’s Wrong With Off-The-Shelf Solutions?
Off-the-shelf software is similar to a one-size-fits-all. They are built with the intention of appealing to a large audience with varying, yet fundamentally similar needs. This could be a solution for your organization. However, they are commonly short-term fixes to your company’s probable long-term issues. Custom software solutions may take more time to develop and more of an overall investment, but they are a product tailored to your specific entity. They designed to increase productivity and address your organization’s internal needs. If you’re business is suffering from being disorganized, inefficient, brand inconsistencies, or the use of unnecessary multiple software applications; then off-the-shelf solutions should be a thought of the past. It’s time to get started on your custom software solutions.
Choosing a company to design and develop your custom software solutions can be challenging. Searching your local businesses that do this is the best place to start your process. Meet with them, ask any and all of your questions, be open to collaboration in order to receive the correct estimate, then get a bid for work. Keep in mind that picking the right company should never come down to money, but instead be chosen based on their willingness to work, listen and be flexible with you. If you have any questions on custom software solutions, contact Dorian Solutions. Our priority is to create useful, functional and unique software that you need. Call us today to find out more!
