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Buy versus Build
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Is it better to buy packaged software solution or build your own? Robert Dent, CEO of Achiever Business Solutions, explores the alternatives.Alton, UK, January 2006
Buy versus build - Finding the right solution for compliance software |
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1. Governance Risk and Compliance management is vital to the continuing success of a business. The threat of slowing time to market, or even heavy fines or imprisonment, makes constant vigilance imperative. The question that still exercises many minds is how best to address these issues – whether to build inhouse software systems that are designed specifically for your business, or whether to buy in packaged software from an external supplier.
It can be hard to argue against the logic of a strong IT department with a history of developing systems internally. Yes, they understand the business and they would write specifically for what you do. Yes, they are already there, and dedicated to your organization’s needs.
2.On the other hand, an external supplier is dedicated to understanding and addressing the issues of compliance, an area that is not a core focus of an internal IT department. The package supplier will have devoted hundreds of man-years to understanding the issues, translating those issues into software design, and developing the software. Moreover, the supplier will continue to monitor the changing shape of regulations, even as they develop in draft, and be ready with enhanced software as new regulations come into force. A good example of this is the recent changes in line with 21 CFR Part 11.
Is an external supplier too distant and its software too inflexible to understand and address the unique requirements of an individual business? We don’t think so. At Achiever Business Solutions we begin with client workshops to understand the way their business and industry work – right down to the terminology they use in day-to-day operation – and then configure the software to fit the business’ profile.
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3.A key benefit of packaged software is that it lowers risk. Reputable and established suppliers will have proven their software with a range of customers across multiple industries. A packaged solution can be configured and implemented fast, ensuring that a business continues to comply with rapidly changing regulations. Speed lowers risk of failure to comply, and saves on implementation costs and disruption.
Cost is a key factor in itself. We aim to help our customers take a more holistic view of their business than individual IT projects. By monitoring and automating entire processes, you can achieve greater consistency of information, more efficient allocation of resources, and improved accountability. Taking an overall view helps you raise productivity and decrease costs and risks significantly.
4.While the case appears stacked in favour of packaged software from a business point of view, there are strong arguments from the IT perspective that need to be addressed.Will the software do the right job for the company? Yes, configurability means flexibility. Is the software proven? Yes, if the supplier has successful reference sites. Is this the thin end of the wedge for replacing inhouse development with third-party software? It doesn’t have to be, not every issue is as complex and evolutionary as compliance, but where knowledge of the issues is vital, then expert external help has to be the answer.
For more information please contact:
Leigh Richards
The Right Image
0870 850 7631
leigh.richards@therightimage.eu
www.therightimage.eu
or
Cherry Rance
Achiever Business Solutions
+44 (01420) 547507
cherry.rance@achieverplus.com
www.achieverplus.com
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