When purchasing a new software program whether it is a basic scheduling system or a complete ERP system most companies are compelled to install a canned system believing it will save them time and money. While this may be true, organizations will sacrifice the customization or tailoring required to receive the fullest benefit from their system. Having the ability to modify and tailor a system to a business’ needs and changes is virtually priceless in the extremely competitive manufacturing market. There are a few key points to consider when deciding whether to buy or build a software system: • Cost • How much functionality is needed? • Will our company change and grow and will the software follow along? • Is it a user friendly is this system? • Is the system easily upgradable?

Too often with canned or out-of-the-box systems, road blocks in usability and functionality are created causing difficulty for the employees. Generally the templates used to create the canned systems are shaped from a foundation of processes and applications the providers believe have proven most efficient. Unfortunately with these systems there is little ability to change or customize the software for the client. In addition there are is the potential for an abundance of extra screens and menus that may not pertain to the company utilizing the software. These screens cause wasted time and straightforward procedures become unnecessarily complicated.

There is the option of purchasing software that is customized (sometimes known as homemade) for the individual client. These systems are built from the ground up and are valuable because they offer the exact functions each company requires for maximum efficiency. Unfortunately these systems can take a year or longer to create and can not be upgraded easily if at all. It is also beneficial to keep in mind that these systems can cost substantially more in terms of development and maintenance.

Some software companies offer one additional option when it comes to buying vs. building. These systems known as tailored software are fast track and customized. This type of software can be modified within a matter of hours and not weeks. Companies will save a substantial amount of time and money with these systems as it can grow as the company grows. Tailored software generally speaking will only require 6-8 weeks to produce and can be easily upgraded and changed. An additional benefit of this software is the client’s IT personnel can even extend and modify the system.

Tailored systems are designed from a base module rather than beginning from scratch. These systems have proven to be more cost and time effective by helping the bottom line for companies and resulting in reduced requirement of IT professionals. Tuppas Software offers over 50 modules tailored to the specific needs of their clients. Check them out at tuppas.com.