With the rise of the digital age and pretty much every aspect of daily life now relying on the internet and technology, businesses are having to quickly adapt their processes to streamline in the rapidly growing digital world. All the top companies need to remain innovative to improve efficiency and enhance customer experiences to lure in customers in a competitive and vast market.
Companies face a huge decision when enhancing their services. Do they rely on off-the-shelf software that is already available or do they implement custom-made software that is specifically tailored to their needs? Both these options have pros and cons. Factoring in cost, scalability and autonomous control is key when making this sort of business decision. But what are the factors to consider when building versus buying software for your business?
Main Factors To Consider
For many businesses, they require the most up-to-date software that is custom to their place in the market to allow for more niche and specific user experiences. For others, the software is just there to allow a portal to other parts of the business, which will take care of itself. Either way, related businesses must pay close attention to their software, especially if it’s integral to their core function. For instance, Canada’s fastest paying casino sites have earned their reputation for quick payments by using trustworthy software that pays players in record time. In addition to bonuses, an easy user interface and several other perks, the software also keeps users coming back.
There are several several factors businesses consider when deciding what sort of software to use:
- Cost
The most economical solution for software development is through pre-made off-the-shelf software. It is more economical as it does not need staffing or time pumped into it, and it is ready to go straight away. This is likely to suit smaller or mid-sized businesses who are not as established, don’t have as large a reserve or don’t have employees to dedicate to this.
- Scalability
Off-the-shelf software is often limited in scope and adaptability. For businesses that are rapidly growing and evolving, and businesses in industries that are constantly shifting, custom software is often the better choice. This is because custom software offers the chance to scale up. Custom software can be altered and adapted in line with growth, escaping the limits that off-the-shelf software might pose.
- Autonomy and Control
Whilst offering hassle-free and easy to use UI’s off-the-shelf software may be able to suffice all your business needs. It may be easier to train staff to use one kind of software and means updates do not need to concern you. However, should you need customisation and control over your experience with software, then a custom-built one may be better for your business. Custom software allows for a more tailored user experience and can integrate specifically with other systems.
Custom Software
Custom software development sees businesses build a tailored program that fits the needs of the business’s specific requirements. This can be done either by staff already existing in the business or can be done by outsourcing to a third party.
Pros:
- Fits specific needs: Custom software can be created to make things as simple and intuitive as possible for any given business. These designs could include improved functionality, user experience and a pleasing interface that aligns exactly with the motivations and goals of the business. It can increase efficiency, streamline work and reflect precisely to customers.
- Growth: Custom software is easier to adapt and develop in the future. The control custom software offers allows companies to accommodate new endeavours and needs when the business requires whether that be through growth or a change in business strategy.
- Uniqueness: Custom software allows businesses to gain an edge and mark some business individuality in saturated markets. This allows them to stand out from the crowd with unique capabilities and can set them apart from competitors.
Off-The-Shelf Software
Pre-built, ready to go and more available to the masses, off-the-shelf software is simple and effective. They are designed to meet the general needs of businesses worldwide.
Pros:
- Lower start-up costs: Due to being an existing product that is more widely available to businesses, off-the-shelf software is usually cheaper to buy and implement. They are available to more people in the market and have become more affordable for businesses.
- Reliability and dependability: As a product, off-the-shelf software is often a proven product. They will be well tested and trusted in the market. Typically, they will already be in circulation and will be getting used by existing businesses, offering more trust in their readiness.
- Implement faster: Businesses opting for off-the-shelf software can typically start using it quicker and there is much less chance of having lengthy waits for implementation. This software is ready to go and means businesses can immediately address any issues they are having using the software.
