Software is required to solve business problems and ensure your company stays ahead of the competition. Once you have identified a software need you usually have 2 alternatives:

1. Purchase a Shrink Wrapped/Off the shelf Solution.
2. Develop a bespoke software application tailored to your exact requirements.

SIS has a proven track record developing bespoke software for corporate organisations and SME’s. The developments follow our standard bespoke software development lifecycle, please review the link as it provides a simple graphical overview of the process.

Off the Shelf Solutions
If you can source an existing competitively priced software application which satisfies 80% of your essential requirements, you would be well advised to purchase the software.

Advantages of Off the Shelf Solutions:

• Cost - Other customers are sharing your development costs
• Enhancements – If the application has a large client base and the provider company is solid, the software will be continually enhanced and upgraded.

Pitfalls of Off the Shelf Solutions:

• Software maybe overly complex, all things to all men.
• Any customisation is usually very expensive unless it is part of the development roadmap.
• User license and maintenance costs can be substantial.
• It will never do everything you want and it will always have lots of functionality you don’t want which can be a problem when training users.

If you are considering purchasing an off the shelf application and have any concerns give us a call. We can help evaluate the fit between the software and your business need. We have your interests at heart and can give you an informed evaluation which may or may not compare to the sales pitch. We will compare the product to alternatives in the Market Place and provide advice on customisation/integration and data take on from existing systems.

Bespoke Software Solutions
If you can not find a cost effective, existing application which is a good fit to your requirements then you can commission a company to develop that software on your behalf. Always choose a company with a proven track record, who have the mix of analytical, development and testing skills to ensure the application will exceed your expectations in terms of functionality, performance, security and management reporting.

Advantages of Bespoke Software Solutions

• Solution tailored to your exact requirements with no none necessary functionality.
• Simple to train new users.

Pitfalls of Bespoke Software Solutions

• It can be expensive, the application is written for one customer instead of hundreds sharing the development cost.
• Do not invest in none industry standard technologies.
• Be prepared to invest considerable time in the analysis phase to get what you require.
• Be prepared to invest in maintenance and an ongoing development contract to protect your investment.

Developing bespoke software can be likened to building a house. Budget figures can be provided after an initial consultation. The longer the consultation the more accurate the estimate (with software a minimum half days meeting would be required). An architect must draw up plans based on the Client’s initial requirements and these yield a bill of quantities/task list which can be individually costed and form the basis of the contract. A review meeting takes place and the Client may choose to add or remove certain features to suit their budget. Once the design is agreed by the Client, building work begins and any changes are managed via change controls.