What Is Custom Software?

Custom software is specifically developed to precisely address the business and usability needs of a client, in contrast to off-the-shelf software. Custom software is created under a contract specifically just for that specific client and is not packaged for reselling. Off-the-shelf software is distributed to a wide audience with largely similar needs.

A word-processing application such as Microsoft Word is an example of off-the-shelf software package. In contrast, custom software caters to the specific needs of a much more narrow audience. It is usually branded as and targeted for a single specific company and would only be used by the specific department or group within that company.

Why Custom Software?

The main reason to develop custom applications is that they can provide functionality that off-the-shelf applications don't. You can realize a significantly increased level of productivity by custom-designing line-of-business applications.

Custom software developed with your speciifc needs in mind allows you to obtain a competitive advantage, an innovative and unique way of doing business that no one else can easily copy.

False Promise of Off-the-Shelf Software

Custom software development has the reputation of being both costly, and risky. Off-the-shelf software seemingly promises quicker turnarounds and lower costs up-front. Very often, this is a false promise, as the costs of adjusting your business processes combined with the cost of customizing the off-the-shelf software may, in the end, far exceed what it would take to build a specifically tailored custom solution.

Choosing the Right Contractor

Picking the right company to create a software application for your business is not easy and can be an outright daunting process. You need to pick the company that is able to deliver at the right price and level of service.

Custom applications developed by Optimax provide an excellent foundation to build upon for the continued success of your business.

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