The Power of the Hybrid Solution
Off-the-shelf software, sometimes called “canned programs,” can sometimes be an ideal way to solve your needs at minimal cost. Because developers can produce a software product once and then sell hundreds, thousands or even millions of copies, they can price their products lower than similar software could be developed for a single client. However, a common problem faced by many companies is that an off-the-shelf solution lacks some of the functionality that is needed to streamline operations, connect team members or eliminate data silos.
For many, the answer is a hybrid solution. Basic off-the-shelf software can be customized to provide the missing functionality. This practice has become increasingly common over the past decade; typically, the main software is a canned program, but extensions are added or customizations are performed to fill in the missing pieces.
To illustrate, suppose a company that manufactures asphalt shingles needs to upgrade their system. They find a basic off-the-shelf software that has most of the functionality they need. The company’s policy is that it will not ship less than a full truckload, so when customers want a smaller quantity, they must send their own trucks to pick up the order. The company bases its shipping charges on the difference between the actual freight and the freight that the customer would have paid from the nearest competitor. In addition, if the customer picks up an order, they are given a pick-up allowance that is equal to the amount of freight that the company would have absorbed, i.e., the portion that was not charged to the customer. The basic software package could not handle such complex calculations for freight charges, but through customizing off-the-shelf software, the company had all of the functionality it needed without having to alter a policy that had been in place for almost a century.
The above is just one example of how a hybrid solution can be used to maximize the efficiency of off-the-shelf software. If you would like to discuss the feasibility of using a ready-made software for your basic needs and then adding additional functionality, contact PhaseAlpha at 913.648.9200 or info@phasealpha.com. We have the expertise to help you find the best solution for your specific needs — and we are never satisfied unless we exceed your expectations.
