Some of you may be familiar with Goldmine, Sage, Sales Logic, Alpha Law and Eclipse Legal - If you already use these types of software you know how well they simplify otherwise tedious processes. Many of these "off the shelf" (OTS)software are designed to tackle many main stream processes such as invoicing, quotations, payroll etc. Sage for example processes your payroll, run full financial reports or pays your suppliers with just one click.
To a large extent the "one size fits all" approach of the OTS software packages meets the requirements of most businesses; but there are certain drawbacks. This includes the inability to customise the software fully to your business; licensing costs; upgrades (which need to be paid for) and lack of support. In many instances the OTS software may not tackle processes you need them to tackle. So if you do find OTS software not relevant for business what other options do you have?
BESPOKE SOFTWARE!
If you cannot find software that fits your business needs completely or you need to automate a process then why not get your own software designed?
Think about it. What processes today in your business takes up most of your time and if automated would eradicate unnecessarily human errors? It could be calculating quotes, sending sales letters, managing customer information or even logging staff competencies.
Our research into how businesses work has found that 99.9% of processes can be automated!
Let me give you some more ideas of types of software you can have developed:
* A Document Management Software - ideal for Legal Practices where all client information is stored in one central location.
* A Word ADD IN – If you create the same documents again and again, creating an ADD IN that automatically inserts specific text will save you a lot of time.
* A Time Log Software – Find out how long tasks are taking to complete and see how productive you are.
* Print Management Software - ideal for Printing Companies. Past and present print jobs can be stored within the software allowing you and your clients to view their print jobs.
* Digital Asset Management Software - ideal for Marketing Agencies, web designers and Advertising Agencies to share media and brand assets across the organisation and with their clients.
* Staff Competency Software - ideal for Recruitment Agencies. No need to go through various CVs looking for the right applicant. Simply enter specific keywords and the software finds the right applicant for you.
* CRM Software - Ideal for Retail Businesses. Record your customers buying habits and spend frequency so you can target them with more tailored offers.
The list is endless and is limited only by your imagination.
The benefits of designing your own software include:
* Automation reduces the time spent manually carrying out the process
* Easier access to information
* Get your quotes and invoices out to your customers quickly boosting cash-flow
* Eradicates human errors and waste
* Cost effective - you pay once for the software, no need to worry about yearly subscription or licensing costs and upgrades
* The software is built around your business so it is easy for you and your team to understand and use
* Better relations with your clients as you understand their requirements fully
Software Design has revolutionised the way many businesses work. If your business does not currently employ software to improve processes in all areas of the business you may be missing a trick.
A case study for you to read is at www.supremesystems.co.uk/client_law.html - this shows how we used Software Design to create a bespoke intranet site.
I hope this has provided some food for thought. If you have any ideas of your own give me a shout! You will be surprised at what the Techies can do.
Until next time!
