How to Choose the Right Software for Your Business
How to choose the right software for your business can be challenging, what seems like the best fit for your needs today, may not be tomorrow!
We specialise in designing Bespoke Software. However, we do have COTS (Commercial off-the-shelf) software systems as well, ideal for some small to medium-sized UK businesses.
Our aim is to assist companies that use traditional methods or outdated software for managing PPM and other Serviced Maintenance activities or Projects, using mobile field teams. To invest in Business Management Systems which help to maximise overhead costs, whilst improving business performance and delivery.
Understanding the different software options…
We’ve created an article on the various business software options as a guide. By understanding the functionality of the various options, we believe it is helpful in getting to the bones of a system that best suits your business.
Creating Bespoke software is really about taking the right functionality from the many options and augmenting them to fit your needs, and not using off-the-shelf software to shape your business to fit its structure!
3 Points we ask clients to consider when buying a new software product.
- Make sure the software works for you! and not you for it!
- Scaling and right-sizing your business is critical in staying agile and responsive to market conditions.
- Proprietary software can add real commercial value, especially at exit.
Question: Why are you considering whether to invest in new system software?
- You have no system and traditional methods aren’t cutting the mustard.
or maybe…
- Outgrown your current system! Not adaptable or just too clunky!
When deciding between a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) product and a bespoke (custom-made) system, here are some simple points to consider:
Budget:
COTS products can appear cheaper upfront but may have ongoing subscription fees.
Bespoke systems have development costs to consider but can save money in the long run.
Time to Deploy:
COTS can be deployed quickly as they are ready-made.
Bespoke systems take time to build and test.
Specific Needs:
Bespoke systems can be tailored to meet the unique needs of your business (fewer clicks).
COTS products might not have all the specialised features you require and more clicks to get to the function you need.
Ease of Use:
COTS products usually come with user guides and are designed to be intuitive.
Bespoke systems can be made as simple or complex as you want them to be.
Scalability:
Check if the COTS product can grow with your business (not just by adding Users).
Bespoke systems can be built with scalability in mind from the outset.
Data Migration:
With COTS, transferring existing data might be challenging.
Bespoke systems can be built to accommodate your existing data more easily.
Flexibility for Changes:
Bespoke systems can be updated as your needs change.
COTS products might be less flexible when it comes to updates or changes.
About Scaling a Bespoke System
Adaptable Workflows:
As your business grows, a bespoke system can adapt to new job types, processes, and services you might offer, saving you from reinventing the wheel.
Cost-Effectiveness:
Initially, you can pay for the features you need and later upgrade, avoiding the cost of a complete system overhaul.
Streamlined Training:
Using the same system as you grow means new staff only have to learn one system, making the onboarding process much easier.
Improved Customer Service:
As the number of customers increases, a bespoke system can help manage and schedule jobs more efficiently, improving response times and customer satisfaction.
Competitive Edge:
Having a robust, scalable system will enhance your business’s ability to adapt to market demands quickly, keeping you ahead of competitors.
Increases Business Value at Exit
Developing proprietary software that’s tailored to deliver unique value can be a significant asset. This bespoke system can differentiate your business in the marketplace, making it more attractive to potential buyers. You’re not just selling the current revenue streams but also the technology platform that drives them, which could command a higher asking price.
Having a Bespoke Design system that effectively solves specific business challenges can be a powerful selling point when you’re looking to exit. It demonstrates foresight, innovation, and strategic investment, all of which can increase the company’s valuation.