Hi,

Now we all *know* that customised systems (like OI) are *much* better than packaged systems, or 'off the shelf' systems, as some users call them. Currently I need to explain the benefits (or otherwise) of building a system with OI, as opposed to using Quickbooks software.

I could go deep in discussion and explain that whilst most of the user requirements are met now with QB, as user needs change like the wind, customised software like OI is a *much* better product in the long run, being able to *change* as needs change.

My question is, does anyone have a 'white paper' or other such monster, on the subject of 'customised systems versus packaged software' ? Of course the report would have to lean heavily on cusomisation as the obvious choice.

Peter

Peter,

The advantages of a custom solution that I have experienced are:

1) Typically tailored to the needs of the users

2) Can be extended as necessary based on a customer's specifications

3) Can integrate with other business applications, either by batch processing or real time

4) Typically allow for ad hoc reporting

5) Allow for custom batch routines that can work on an entire set of data instead of having a data entry person manually do it

Cameron Purdy

Revelation Software

Cameron,

Thanks, point one weighs the heaviest for what I am currently working on.

Thanks again,

Peter

You might want to head off to one of the big powerhouse consulting firms that specialise in that. They might have a few papers on why a company should spend 20 gazillion dollars on a custom package when they could pick up shrink-wrap for under 99 bucks.

akaplan@sprezzatura.com

Sprezzatura, Inc.

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