Advantages and Disadvantages of Bespoke Software

What is bespoke software?

Let's start with the basics. What exactly are we referring to when we use the term 'bespoke software'. In simple terms, software that has been created just for you. This means it fit your business's environment, workflows, processes and indeed - ambitions - exactly. That's in stark contrast to off-the-shelf software that is designed to impress the masses with generic features and functionality that never usually quite fit the bill...

The good

Now, lets take a look at some of the many advantages of bespoke software:

It's tailored exactly to your needs

Every feature, every workflow, every tiny detail is built to reflect the realities of your business. There doesn't need to be any compromises or any unnecessary extras that will never be applicable to your organisation.

It can be designed to integrate with existing systems - bespoke or otherwise

Because it's built from scratch, bespoke software can be designed to integrate with your existing systems or those belonging to third parties - this is not usually the case for off-the-shelf solutions where integrations are generally limited to third parties of their choice. This negates the need for workaround solutions and can improve your collective systems coherence. 

It can be incredibly cost effective

Whilst initial development costs might be higher, bespoke software can reduce your long term expenditure significantly. Custom software is built to create efficiencies whether through automation, more streamlined workflows or specific functionality and this often reduces the need for manual work, helping you save on staff time and the associated overheads. It also removes the reliance on multiple software subscriptions and ongoing licensing fees that can really stack up.

They can be built to be scalable and flexible

Again, because it's built from scratch, your custom software can be developed in a way that allows it to evolve as your business grows and changes. It can be easily modified, extended or upgraded to accommodate changes in operations, user base or market demands which is something that’s often difficult with off-the-shelf alternatives as this is all decided by the vendor.

It is built to improve efficiency (most of the time)

Bespoke software ditches the unnecessary features and focuses on only what is relevant to your business. This means that more often than not, your processes become more efficient. Automation and tailored functionality greatly help reduce manual tasks and as a bonus - minimise the risk of errors.

Full control

Your software, your rules. You decide how and when it’s maintained, updated and developed - no waiting on a third party vendor to push out fixes or new features.

The bad

With the good, comes the bad - isn't that just life?! Here's some aspects of bespoke software that you might want to consider before jumping in:

Higher upfront costs

One of, if not the most notable drawbacks of custom software is the upfront investment that is usually required. Bespoke software typically requires more time and resources to design, develop and test your new system which can lead to significantly higher initial costs compared to off-the-shelf solutions as that software is already built.

Longer development time

Unsurprisingly, because it is built from the ground up, custom software takes longer to develop. If you're seriously considering going bespoke, you must factor in planning, design, development, testing and deployment timelines, which may be problematic if you're just after a quick fix.

Requires clear requirements

The importance of clear requirements cannot be understated for bespoke software projects. Successful outcomes depend heavily on having transparent, well defined requirements from you - the client - and often requires a lot of detail. Without this, there’s a risk of scope creep, misaligned features or a product that doesn’t fully meet your requirements despite all the work that goes into it.

Ongoing maintenance responsibility

With bespoke software, the responsibility for ongoing maintenance, updates and security is on you. This can increase risk and lump you with additional costs if not properly planned for.

The ugly (?)

Naturally, we love bespoke software - it’s custom built magic! But, let’s be honest - it’s not all sunshine and clear skies. It can certainly be pricey upfront, takes its sweet time to build and demands crystal clear requirements. But, that’s the trade off for getting exactly what you want. So… maybe we don't need this section after all?

To finish

So there you have it, the advantages and disadvantages of bespoke software. Every project is unique so these pros and cons may or may not apply in your specific situation. If you'd like to discuss this further or get an idea of which points might apply to you, get in touch with our friendly team for a chat today!