Substitute products are products which, as a result of changed conditions, may replace each other when pertaining to use or consumption. Such is the case of what is referred to as Off-the-Shelf Software.

What this title entails to is software that can be bought, typically off the shelves of various electronic stores. Though convenient to purchase, what if this type of software is actually hampering business management? Below are reasons why your business shouldn’t use generic software.

1. It’s a Compromise

Generic Software is typically a compromise of other, tailored software. By virtue of its nature, Off-the-Shelf solutions are designed for mass purchases, catering to a large audience. Because of this, the functions and processes that come in one single purchase will be vast and vary greatly.

While some companies make use of a small amount of software, other businesses which require more distinct functions may not benefit a whole lot from your run of the mill solutions. And due to the large variety of processes, you may very well find yourself putting only a minuscule amount of the actual software to work. There may be large sections that will never see the light of day.

 

2. Not Exactly Flexible

These types of software, while easy to buy, are not incredibly flexible. As Off-the-Shelf solutions were made to be mass produced, the functions provided tend to be limited to whom the providers had in mind.

Because businesses vary quite a bit, each company might not find exactly what they were looking for when using generic software. The typical remedy to the inflexible aspect is to alter the way you work in order to fit in with the design of the software.

This clearly presents its own problems, as companies now have to devise a new plan of operation in order to use a fraction of the available software. Due to its inflexibility, companies will usually find themselves working around the program as opposed to working alongside.

 

3. Troubleshooting is Lacking

Whereas custom software providers personally train their clients in using their product, generic software users are expected to learn off of a manual. Because there are so many different features, users will have a difficult time in learning how to use the few functions they need.

Additionally, tech support provided with Off-the-Shelf software is not the most reliable. You may end up dealing with large, faceless companies who may not be as concerned as you with an urgent problem.

 

4. Other Problems

Among the main problems presented by using generic software exist smaller issues. One such issue is the complete inability to execute a certain command. There are some actions that are just impossible to do with your run of the mill software. Moreover, it is difficult to gain any competitive advantage against other companies who are either using the same software or have custom software.

 

What to Do?

Custom Software covers any problems Off-the-Shelf software presents. With custom software, a dedicated team of experts will listen to your inquiries and mold the product to fit your specific needs. Furthermore, this same team of experts will guide you through how to apply and operate your newfound product.

Pro DBX provides all these services and more. Our team of software professionals will take into consideration what you need and how your company operates, providing with suggestions and comments to help you create the best software for your business.

Our tech support is always eager to assist our clients and troubleshoot any problems that could be encountered down the road. Pro DBX aims to deliver the best at the most affordable.

Final Thoughts

While some businesses can manage with generic software, most will find its glaring weaknesses to be very detrimental to management and growth. There are functions which are just impossible with one Off-the-Shelf solution and purchasing even more software to compensate that lack results in a larger loss. Generic Software is, by no means, completely obsolete.

These are wonderful for those who are on a budget and should, at the very least, be considered before purchasing custom software.