When companies want to digitalise their business processes, the question often arises: Is a standardised solution enough for us, or do we need a customised solution that meets our specific requirements?
The software question: customised or standard?
Customised software vs. standard software
Standard software refers to ready-made software solutions that have been developed for a broad user base. These ‘programmes’ are usually ready for immediate use and cover a wide range of functions that are relevant for many companies. Well-known examples of standard software are ERP systems (Enterprise Resource Planning), CRM systems (Customer Relationship Management) or accounting software.
Customised software, on the other hand, is developed specifically for an individual company. It is customised to optimally support a company’s unique business requirements and processes. In contrast to standard software, every detail is customised according to the wishes and needs of the company.
Unsure which software is right for your company? Let us advise you in a free strategy meeting!
Standardsoftware: Pros and Cons
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Pros
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Cost efficiencyStandard software is often cheaper, as the development costs are spread across many customers. However, it also comes with unused features that can cause hidden costs. |
AdaptabilityCompanies can often only make changes to a limited extent, which can mean that specific business requirements are not optimally covered. |
Fast implementationAs standard software is ready for immediate use, the implementation time can be significantly reduced. However, this only applies if no complex customising is required, as this can prolong the implementation process and significantly increase costs. |
Dependence on the providerChanges and customisations to the software are often tied to the provider. |
Maintenance and updatesStandard software is regularly maintained and updated by the provider. |
FunctionalityStandard software often offers a wide range of functions, but not all of them are always required. At the same time, essential functions that are specifically required for the respective company may be missing. |
User experienceAs standard software is used by many companies, the solutions are generally well tried and tested. |
IntegrationThe integration of standard software into existing systems is often difficult, requires compromises and leads to additional costs and complexity. |
Licence costsStandard software usually requires ongoing licence fees. These costs can add up over time. |
Customised software: What are the advantages? What’s against it?
Customised software offers ideal coverage of a company’s specific requirements, but can present challenges when it comes to implementation and maintenance. It is important to weigh up this flexibility against potential complications.
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Pros
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AdaptabilityCustomised software is developed specifically for a company and is therefore perfectly tailored to business requirements. |
Development timeThe development of customised software takes time, which means that companies have to expect a longer waiting period until full implementation compared to standard software that is ready for immediate use. |
Innovation opportunitiesCustomised software allows companies to implement new ideas and functions directly without having to rely on standard solutions. |
Maintenance and supportThe responsibility for maintenance and further development often lies with the customer. This requires either internal resources or the commissioning of an external service provider. |
Long-term benefitsCustomised software is tailored to a company’s goals and processes over the long term. This means that it can grow and develop with the company. |
ScalabilityCustomised software may need to be adapted as the company grows or changes. |
Ownership of the source codeAfter consultation, the source code belongs to you. This gives you the opportunity to make changes and adaptations independently of the original developer and thus further develop the software at any time. |
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Integration:As customised software is developed specifically for a company, it can be optimally integrated into existing systems and processes. |
Customised and standard software: the best of both worlds
In many cases, it is not necessary to strictly opt for one of the two solutions. A combination of standard software and customised software can unite the advantages of both approaches.
Companies can use a proven standard solution for general business processes and enhance it with customised individual software to meet specific requirements. These bridging solutions offer the best of both worlds: the stability of standard software and the flexibility and efficiency of customised software.
Although ERP, CRM and PPS systems cover many functions, there are often specific business requirements that these standard solutions cannot fulfil, as they are designed to meet the general and frequently occurring requirements of many industries. Despite their versatility, standard solutions often reach their limits when it comes to specific, unique business requirements.
Do you want to optimise your existing standard software? Let’s discuss how customised software can enhance your system!
Market development and trends in Switzerland
In Switzerland, the demand for customised software solutions is increasing, especially in medium-sized companies. While standard software is still widely used, more and more companies are recognising the advantages of customised software, which can be better adapted to specific requirements and seamlessly integrated into existing systems.
According to a recent study, the Swiss software industry generated around 20% of its turnover in 2022 through the customisation of standard software and the development of bespoke solutions. The ‘Swiss Software Industry Survey’ (SSIS) also shows that the demand for customised software is also increasing in the public sector, with 20.3% of the turnover of customised software companies coming from public contracts. This emphasises the growing importance of such solutions in Switzerland.
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Sofia Steninger
Solution Sales Manager
