cus-tom adj. It Makes Sense for Out-of-the-Box Ideas

It's True That One Size Doesn't Fit All

cus-tom adj. Made to order.

Whether it is a house, classic car, or that chopper you've been eyeing for your garage-this word conjures a sense of uniqueness and quality that is desirable, though for many unobtainable.

Mention a "custom product labeling solution" to an Operations Manager or a CFO and the reaction you receive will be less than enthusiastic. Custom software is often perceived as the antithesis of those custom treasures we covet from the Discovery Channel. The perceived increase in cost, time to adapt the technologies for your particular needs, and the resources required to implement all add to the hesitancy decision-makers have about purchasing a "Custom Solution".

Yet when it comes to "out-of-the-box" ideas, custom software is often the answer. And, given the right opportunity and a sound approach, it might be just the resolution you are looking for.

We acknowledge that packaged software should be considered first for your core operations. Off-the-shelf business software is available for all sizes and types of companies, and generally offers solid functionality, maintainability, and value when compared to custom applications.

But what do you do when your order entry application doesn't offer out-of-box functionality for the web-based ordering solution you want to offer your top customers? What choices do you have to automate your shipping and receiving operations when your 10-year-old ERP system does not have a wireless data collection interface? Or, how do you implement an enterprise RFID smart tag solution when your company is running different software at each of its locations?

Packaged vs. Custom?

More often than not, the cost to implement a package is well beyond the price tag on the box. For example, while a package solution may give you instant gratification, you might be paying for more than you need. The application you buy may have a rich set of features but require additional infrastructure. Does it contain too many features? Does it address your company's unique needs?

Let's face it, as your company grows and you make adjustments to your systems and process to accommodate this change, you often end up with a patchwork solution with varying technologies, hardware, and software. How can a packaged, one-size-fits-all product hope to encompass your already "specialized" situation without costing more time and money?

The total price and implementation difficulty of the packaged solution could end up costing you more in the long run than a custom solution that is narrowly focused. More often than not, customization is already required to address key features that are not supported while integrating with your existing applications and equipment.

Custom solutions are most successful and cost effective when they address narrowly focused requirements and can leverage existing applications and infrastructure. You build only what you need and provide functionality that is specific to your business and potentially unique in your market. As business needs change or new opportunities present themselves, you are not at the mercy of the software vendor's release schedule to incorporate modifications or add new features.

Depending on the components and software used to construct your custom application, you may be able to avoid additional license costs that are typically associated with a package when users or equipment are added.

Lessons from the Field

Pragmatyxs has specialized in custom inventory, product tracking, and labeling solutions since its inception ten years ago.

Over the years, we've found that success in the custom arena is the result of:

• A thorough understanding of your business and operational objectives and a tenacity for controlling project scope.
• Knowledgeable business analysts with access to current technical resources and the ability to leverage solution partners who have proven track records.
• Applications built on a solid technology foundation based on industry standards and tools. Don't reinvent the wheel; use existing commercial or open source components to "assemble" your solution.
• Focus on current requirements. Avoid trying to anticipate every potential future requirement. Well conceived solutions can evolve over time as needs change.
• Testing, testing, testing... and when that's done, test some more!
• Documented support processes. Consider engaging a solution partner for ongoing support. Establish service levels for timely response to critical issues.

The idea of custom software isn't all that exciting. And we don't anticipate that the public will be clamoring to catch the next episode of "Orange County Geeks" if ever a reality TV show was created about custom solution development. But unlike the custom choppers or homes showcased on similar programs which are too expensive for the "every man", custom software can be affordable and effective for businesses trying to solve a unique business issue.

In fact, a custom solution that efficiently and cost-effectively meets your manufacturing and distribution needs might just be the answer in making your unique idea a reality.

Visit us at www.pragmatyxs.com for more information on how Pragmatyxs can help you implement an enterprise-grade mobile, wireless or labeling solution tailored to your needs.

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