Off-the-shelf software is ready to roll the minute you slide the installation CD in the drive and the other is software which is built to your specification. There is a lot of difference between the writen and off-the-shelf software and the usability of the two types is also considerably different. Here are some of the main differences:
Price: One of the biggest differences is the price. An off-the-shelf product is usually reasonably priced whereas a customized product can be relatively expensive to build.
Generic build: An off-the-shelf product is made for a wide range of audience. Thus the development team has to provide a set design as well as a pre-defined framework. Since the product is ready to use, it may not cater to the exact requirement of all organizations. Usually there are some adjustments that an existing organization will need to make in order to implement an off-the-shelf product. This disadvantage is the biggest advantage in the case of customized software. Customized software picks up current processes and builds an electronic framework to automate them. There is no requirement to change any processes and people can usually get used to the software within a few days. Customized software provides flexibility as well for the organization to tinker around with the software and fine tune it for better performance.
Updates: Off-the-shelf products have off-the-shelf updates. Each time there is a revision in software purchased off-the-shelf, you will need to shell out an update fee. On the other hand, some off-the-shelf products may not have any updates for a long time, thus making you use obsolete software which might have negative repercussions on your business. Updates in customized software are done based on the requirements and budget of the company.
Below are the benifits of using a custom or writen software over an off-the-shelf or packaged software:
1. CUSTOM SOFTWARE: Custom software solutions enable you to develop software solutions that map your unique business processes rather than changing your business processes to conform to what a "packaged software" provides.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE: You may have to bend your business practices to fit the requirements of the package, so that it will suite your business.
2. CUSTOM SOFTWARE: Clearly specifying and achieving the requirements that fits your business is possible.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE: Selecting the best package software that entirely fits your business is very difficult.
3. CUSTOM SOFTWARE: With a custom application, you can have all the features you need and request for your business.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE: You may end up paying a lot of money for features that you don't really need and may be unable to utilize the software effectively in your business.
4. CUSTOM SOFTWARE: The cost of and amount of training required is an up-front investment. 24/7 support is available for you on your software functionality and training.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE: If the product is complex, your staff may be confused, making the software useless. You may not receive 24/7 support service and attention for your business's functionality.
5. CUSTOM SOFTWARE : There are no licensing fees with the custom solutions. Once you have paid for the product, you can usually make as many copies as you need.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE : When you buy off-the-shelf software you are always subject to licensing fees.
6. CUSTOM SOFTWARE :Once you have paid for the product, you can use it for as many employees that you need.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE :The initial purchase price for a product often limits your right of use to a limited number of current users. You have to pay extra if you want the product to be accessible to more users.
7. CUSTOM SOFTWARE : Custom software developers can create a version that contains only the system core and essential system modules. This permits the repair of bugs found in the software.
PACKAGED SOFTWARE : Packaged software, in comparison, are often plagued with serious bugs resulting from a short span between deadline and first sale.
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