As a metalworking company, it’s important to make the right choice between developing software yourself, purchasing software from a vendor or having an integrator link various systems together. Below I’ve listed the pros and cons of each option for you:
Self-developing software:
- Full control over software development
- Tailored to the specific needs of the business
- No licensing and maintenance costs
- Much time and expertise required
Purchasing software from a software vendor:
- Turnkey solution available
- Extensive documentation and support
- No time required for software development
- Depending on software vendor expertise and concessions must be made
Linking of different systems by an integrator:
- Choosing best software solutions for each specific function or task
- Few concessions needed as different systems can be combined
- Ability to add specific solutions that integrate seamlessly with existing systems
- Additional cost and time required for integration and maintenance
If you are still inexperienced or digitization is a far cry from your bed show, it makes sense to buy everything, preferably from one party. You then begin to learn how it works with standard functions in the systems.
Are you handy yourself but short on time? Then it’s often best to buy expertise and solutions and work with integrators.
Finally, for advanced users, I recommend developing your own software with caution. I would always start by creating additional applications myself, such as web shops, middleware or other automation; I personally would not write a core business application.
The point is:
In general, the more you take matters into your own hands, the more you have to take care of yourself. After all, what you own also owns a part of you.
In all cases, it is wise to work with a reliable systems integrator who will advise and guide the integration process.
