Advantages and Disadvantages of Bespoke Software Development
Bespoke software development involves creating custom or tailor-made software that is designed for a particular customer or business need1. Examples of bespoke software can be seen by large organisations such as Amazon and Ebay, their e-commerce websites have been designed specifically to suit their customers and business. To help understand if bespoke software is right for your business discover the advantages and disadvantages below.
Advantages of Bespoke Software
Personal
Bespoke software is built for exactly what your business needs. Rather than buying off-the-shelf software and trying to adapt it, you start with a tool or system that was built for you.
Scalable & Adaptable
Because it’s custom built it is easy to grow with your business. Whether that’s adding new users or features, you are in control of any changes – you don’t need to wait for the next software update or feature release – you decide when and what.
Security Assurance
As only your business is using the software it is harder to target for an attack as it requires more time and effort. This means you are much less likely to experience a security breach.
Disadvantages of Bespoke Software
Time and Energy
To gain the most advantage from bespoke software requires time and energy to understand exactly what your business needs. This extra work can be off-putting but the time saved in the long run far outweighs the initial effort.
High Upfront
Anything labelled as ‘bespoke’ is likely to come with a high upfront cost which is another reason business owners may be put off by a custom-made solution. However, when you look long term at the costs of adding new licences, support and the actual cost of an off-the-shelf tool, it often works out cheaper. What’s more, Bristol IT Company may be able to offer a payment plan to spread the cost of the initial investment of bespoke software.
Summary
When exploring a bespoke software solution, the initial time and cost associated may seem daunting. However the increased productivity your organisation will see and the time and money saved in the long run far weighs up the initial investment. Contact us for a no obligation discussion to see how a bespoke software solution could benefit your business!
1 https://www.techopedia.com/definition/6184/bespoke-software
