If you suspect you need a new software you should not dismiss having bespoke software written for you as something outside your financial reach, or technical ability. Here are 5 reasons why bespoke solutions should be considered as a viable alternative to “off-the-shelf”.
1. You aren’t paying for features you don’t want
Many off-the-shelf solutions are trying to cater for a wide array of different business types. Each business is unique but off-the-shelf is trying to provide a one-sized fits all approach. This means the solution will likely contain features and functionality you do not need or want, but you are paying for it.
2. Total Cost of Ownership
This may sound the opposite of what you were thinking, but bespoke may be the cheaper option in the long run. With off-the-shelf you need to consider multiple factors and compare them to the cost of getting something that fits both your finances and your objectives.
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Licensing
If your business grows will you need to buy more licenses to keep using off-the-shelf software. Once locked in, enterprise-sized vendors know you will keep paying the increase in license costs.
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Customisation
Rarely does off-the-shelf fit perfectly into your business, and you have to decide whether to pay for customisation. The costs for someone to customise an ERP solution to fit your company can be eye-watering. You then have the issue of what to do when the base system is upgraded, will the customisations need re-implementing?
3. Differentiate from competitors
Every business is unique, with unique selling points. Having software that allows you to promote positive differences from your competitors’ gives you that edge. With bespoke you are calling the shots and what is a priority for your business.
4. Flexibility
The world is constantly changing, the environment in which you do business is evolving, and companies must adapt to those changes. You may not be able to wait for an off-the-shelf package to implement that feature your industry demands now. If you need to integrate with a third-party solution that isn’t supported, if customers require more traceability of ethical purchasing, can a generic solution change to with your business requirements?
5. Intellectual Property
You are the owner of your software application. No licensing costs, no enforced upgrades to keep you on a supported version. You are free to adapt, take development in-house, or if you see a market for the solution you could even sell licensing rights to others.
Not every solution needs bespoke, if you want to write a letter, use Word. However, when you need something that is hard to define, then you should consider whether something tailored for your needs could be right decision long term. Get in touch with ByteIT and let’s talk about your project.