Off the shelf database software

In the 10 years since the custom solution was started, new OTS options had become available. You need to make sure everyone is onboard with following an off-the-shelf workflow. Remember, compromises will have to be made in order to use something which already exists. They chose to move ahead despite warnings and recommendations. This is how the situation evolved, stacked against what we had recommended. An organization had an off-the-shelf OTS system, with annual licenses amounting to thousands of dollars per year.

The system generally worked to run their business. The organization was using it well, and staff was familiar with its operation. However, gaps remained — including reporting and other needed add-on tools. They approached Digital Mettle and initially requested a custom software alternative to the OTS system.

After assessing their system and its weaknesses, two things became immediately clear:. Instead, they followed our recommendation of custom additions to their existing OTS system. Inexpensive examples, like word processing or tax return software are easy to find and purchase from retail stores. An electronic copy of the instructions is also usually included on the disc that contains the installation files and resources and in several languages to boot.

Even though companies can make do with freeware or open source software, it is often a requirement on their part to ensure that majority of the applications they rely on are COTS products. This is because, other than having installation instructions, most of the COTS applications have a customer care section that aids any organization that has bought their product.

When a problem is discovered with the COTS product, it will be usually taken care of using a patch, or fix. A patch will cover the reported defect s that may make the product vulnerable to hackers or operate incorrectly. Unlike COTS software, MOTS is often accompanied with modifiable source code that allows the owner, if they have enough knowledge, to change the product to their choosing.

We're not resting on our laurels. Also, do these features make the software more complicated than it needs to be? A huge amount of options, settings and functions can sometimes muddy the waters. You may be stuck with unwieldy software that is hard to navigate, or a large bill for staff training in order to help them get to grips with it. Some off-the-shelf software providers will include technical support as part of the package you buy. This means you can get direct access to the developers of the software to get help when you need it.

There can be some drawbacks to this service though. This goes back to paying more in the long run — do you really want to pay to undergo a potentially huge software update, including backing up any data you have, just to qualify for support? The main problem with this is that the chances of these new features being exactly what you need are pretty slim. You can get off-the-shelf tools that can handle key functions of your business but as your business evolves, your software can become outdated.

As you grow, the software will grow with you. Get in touch to find out more about the bespoke software solutions we provide.