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Software Solution

In today's complex business world, software solutions are essential to the day to day operations of any given company. In simple terms, a software solution is a software package (or packages) designed to meet the needs of a variety of different businesses, companies, libraries, government agencies, non-profit organizations, the military, and others. A software solution or package may consist of everything from accounting, database management, and word processing software to wireless, messaging, and security software. A software solution can also consist of a combination of all of the above software types or several different software types.

Types of Software Solutions

On a smaller scale, software solutions are also available for home or home office use. Depending on the needs of the company, organization, or household, there are a variety of different software solutions on the market that are either “off-the-shelf” or customizable.

There are several common types of off-the-shelf software solutions, including packages like: Microsoft Office, Macromedia Studio, and Peachtree Accounting software solutions. All off-the-shelf software solutions are sold with instructions, tutorials, help functions, and on-line tech support as well as a tech support hotline or customer service center. Customizable software solutions or packages are typically installed by the provider. The provider may also offer training; this is usually the case with larger companies or corporations. If you're a smaller company, it's best to make sure the software solutions provider offers some sort of training or support, as it may be difficult to learn the ins and outs of the software on your own.

Choosing a Software Solution

Choosing the right software solution for your business or organization can be a daunting task, but there are a few considerations that might help make your decision easier. Why do you need a new or replacement software solution? What issues should the software solution address? What problems should it solve? What are some important qualities of a service provider—price, name-recognition, accessibility? Will an integrated single solution work better for your company or an integrated package with multiple solution providers?

Choosing the right software package or switching to say, Linux, from an existing solution, can have a direct impact on the bottom line. Because Linux-based technology utilizes a less costly technology infrastructure, using this open-source software solution can result in huge savings over software such as Microsoft Windows products. Savings from lower licensing fees, installation, maintenance, and consulting fees are just a few ways companies can save money by opting for Linux-based technology. For example, in 2001, Amazon.com reduced technology costs by 25 percent, from $71 million to $54 million, by switching to Linux. In addition to cutting technology costs, implementing the appropriate software solution can also increase productivity which, in turn, results in an increase in profits.

Once you have determined your company's needs, it's time to match them with a service provider. By browsing through advertising, trade show materials, and Web sites to find out which providers are best suited for your company, you can narrow your search down to a few promising providers. Once you find several good matches, contact a company representative or sales person.

Support

Keep in mind that if a company sells solely on price, you might not get the service and support you need or it may be lacking in the “solution development” department. If a service provider offers or is willing to give a test implementation, that's usually a good sign because it suggests that the provider stands behind its software solution.

By Michelle Burton


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Software Solution

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