How do I find the right software for my company?

Standard software such as CRM systems (for customer management) or ERP solutions (for internal processes, e.g. SAP) are ready-made programmes that are tailored to the needs of many companies. They offer a wide range of functions that cover most standard processes in companies.

Areas of application:

• CRM (Customer Relationship Management): Customer management and sales tracking.
• ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning): Company resources such as finance, logistics and personnel management.

Advantages:

• Fast implementation: As these are ready-made solutions, they can be put into operation relatively quickly.
• Cost efficiency: Costs are often lower than for customised solutions, as the development costs are spread across many users.
• Proven functionality: Many companies use these systems, which offers a certain degree of security in terms of their stability and functionality.

Disadvantages:

1. Limited customisation options: Standard software can usually only be customised to specific needs to a limited extent.
2. Functionality: Standard software often includes numerous functions, many of which may be superfluous, while specifically required functions are missing.
3. Licence costs: The running costs for licences and updates can add up.
4. Complexity: Many systems are extensive and require intensive employee training.
5. Dependence on the provider: Changes and customisations to the software are often tied to the provider.

When standard software does not fit:

Standard software can reach its limits if your company has very specific requirements that go beyond the standard functions. There is often a lack of flexibility to address these special needs.

No code and low code platforms make it possible to create software solutions without in-depth programming knowledge. Drag-and-drop editors and predefined modules allow simple applications to be developed in a short space of time.

Areas of application:

• Prototyping: Quickly test initial ideas and create functional prototypes.
• Workflow automation: Processes such as approval workflows or simple databases can be easily mapped.
• MVPs (minimum viable products): Ideal for bringing an initial version of a product to market quickly.

Advantages:

• Fast implementation: applications can often be created in just a few days or weeks.
• Lower costs: As no in-depth programming is required, development costs are usually lower.
• User-friendly: The tools are often intuitive to use so that even non-technical people can develop simple solutions.

Disadvantages:

• Limited customisability: Complex, company-specific requirements are often difficult to implement.
• Dependence on the platform: Applications are often only executable within the respective platform and offer limited export options.
• Scalability and performance: Increasing requirements can lead to performance problems, as the platforms are not designed for complex applications.

When no code/low code does not fit:

If your company requires customised, highly complex solutions or data needs to be securely integrated into your existing systems, no code/low code can reach its limits.

Customised software is developed specifically for the needs of your company. It takes into account all specific requirements and is tailored precisely to your business processes.

Areas of application:

1. Complex business processes: When standard software or no code/low code tools are not enough.
2. Innovative solutions: Software that is customised to your individual business models or innovative ideas.
3. Integration: Optimised integration into existing IT landscapes and data structures.

Advantages:

1. 100% customisation: The software adapts to your company – not the other way round.
2. Long-term benefits: Customised software is tailored to a company’s long-term goals and processes.
3. Scalability: The solution grows with your requirements and can be flexibly expanded.
4. Long-term cost efficiency: Although the initial investment may be higher, you save in the long term as there are no licence costs and the solution is precisely tailored to your needs.
5. Integration: As customised software is developed specifically for a company, it can be optimally integrated into existing systems and processes.

Disadvantages:

• Higher initial costs: Development is more complex and therefore costs more.
• Development time: Customised software requires time for planning, development and testing.
• Care and maintenance: Regular maintenance and updates are required to keep the software up to date.

When should I use customised software?

Customised software is ideal if your company has specific requirements that no standard solution can meet, or if you are looking for innovative, competitive solutions that will take your company to the next level.

Software selection is a complex process that involves various criteria and steps. The most important criteria and steps for software selection are presented below.

Top 10 criteria for software selection

• Functionality: The software should offer the necessary functions and features to fulfil the company’s requirements.
• Scalability: The software should be able to scale with the growth of the organisation.
• Ease of use: The software should be simple and intuitive to use.
• Security: The software should be secure and reliable to protect the organisation’s data.
• Cost: The software should be cost-effective and within the organisation’s budget.
• Integration: The software should be easy to integrate into existing systems and processes.
• Support: The software should offer good support and fast assistance.
• Flexibility: The software should be flexible and customisable to adapt to the changing needs of the business.
• Maturity: The software should be mature and ready to fulfil the company’s requirements.
• Vendor dependency: The software should not be dependent on a particular vendor to ensure the flexibility and independence of the organisation.

Which software is right for you?

Choosing the right software depends heavily on the needs of your organisation. While standard software and no-code/low-code platforms often offer fast and cost-effective solutions, they reach their limits when it comes to complex requirements. If you are looking for a customised, scalable and long-term efficient solution, individual software is the best choice.