In my experience many times I have seen businesses are more confused about selection of software solution and technologies. In this article I am trying to throw some light on key parameters to be taken into consideration for selecting Software Technology for Business.
1. What the Software Needs to Do:
Its most important to figure out what are your pain areas and what you need for your business..! Compile a list of the tasks. Ask everyone who will use the solution to make a list of their top 10 tasks. Be specific!
For example - Weekly Sales Reports by City, print invoices or e-mail receipts are specific features. It is also important to identify the information that needs to be stored or tracked such as customer names and addresses; vendors who send holiday gifts; past trip history; specific travel requirements; and more.
2. Custom Designed or Ready to Use Product:
You will find that almost any type business has a choice of ready to use product, off-the-shelf software solutions. These will include basic functions such as customer relations management (CRM), sales, accounting, vendor and product management and reporting, tailored for your specific industry or product. Ready to use product can save a great deal of time and money over custom solutions – they come pre-tested and ready to run. Custom solutions provide the best fit if your business is truly unique but time, money and the patience of Job will be required.
3. Where the Solution Will Run:
Your business solution will typically be shared by all or most of the computers on your office network.
It can be hosted on a local computer or it can be hosted on a server somewhere on the Internet.
The functions of your solution will determine the best method of hosting.
Solutions or applications that are more specific or generic in function make good candidates for internet hosting.
Internet applications are developed to be a “one-size-fits-all”, they are generally “rented” and they are not as customisation as an in-office solution.
On the other hand, solutions that have a broader range of functionality or are more customised are better implemented on your local network.
For your development dollar, generally you can get more features if the solution is designed to be hosted on your local network. Other considerations: security, backups, access to your data. If the solution and data are in your office, you have more control.
4. Budget:
Set a realistic budget by speaking with other, similar companies who have recently implemented a solution. Trade groups are a good source for contacts. Don’t forget to consider required hardware upgrades, customisation of the solution, training and support.
5. Demonstrations:
Always try to collect information about other businesses who have implemented same kind of software solution which you are trying to implement. Otherwise you can ask vendor or your software development team to provide presentation with small demo to get feel of solution.
GrassDew has four main business streams – Consulting Services, Software Solutions, Security Services and Knowledge Services. Our primary focus is on various software development and maintenance services.
To know more about our services, email us at shekhar.pawar@grassdew.com