Answer 5_2_2

Question 2  A company is buying a new computer system, but there is no software available that matches its exact needs.  Explain the options open to the company assessing the advantages and disadvantages of each option.

Go for Bespoke Software:

• Advantage: The software is designed to do all the functions that the client wants, being based on an in-depth analysis of the client's operations.

• Disadvantage:  Expensive.  Often does not work properly due to many bugs, especially if it's complex.

Go for Proprietary Software and change operations to suit:

• Advantage: Fully tested and functional when installed on the client's hardware.  Much less expensive.

• Disadvantage:  Company's operations need to be changed.  This may well cause problems for customers and staff.

Persuade the ICT firm to provide Modified Proprietary Software:

• Advantage: Extra functions can be added to address needs of the client, with basically reliable software.

• Disadvantage:  often doesn't work, and messes up the previously reliable program.

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