Custom Software Solutions

Consider a software application such as FRACAS (Failure Review and Corrective Action System). This software can be purchased from vendors. However, from a user perspective it suffers from the following issues:

• it is quite expensive
• it can be difficult to learn (which may require training sessions, which add more cost)
• because it is written to satisfy all potential users, it probably contains features that will not be used
• yet since all users have unique needs, it probably lacks certain features, which can be added only by the vendor and for another cost

This is why custom software solutions can make sense. A generic FRACAS application can be tailored to an individual organization's needs cost effectively. That is:

• customization is part of the expected product as opposed to an expensive accessory
• the developer works with the user in an iterative way until the desired software is completed. The basic functionality is available immdediately.
• the final product has only what was requested by the user
• the user owns everything, including the code. Future modifications can be performed without the original developer