Today, many organizations reduce homegrown software development efforts by purchasing off-the-shelf solutions instead of building them in-house. This strategy can be very cost effective if the Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) solution meets specific company needs. Unfortunately, in many situations, COTS solutions disappoint. As a result, companies usually have to undertake a major COTS enhancement project that is comparable in breadth to building a custom developed solution. Thus, it is important for companies to not rely on vendor claims of high compatibility alone. Instead, organizations should conduct their own compatibility assessments. One technique, called Function Fit Analysis, is particularly useful. The technique, itself, is based on function point analysis – which is the decomposition of an existing or planned system -based on the user's perspective of functional requirements. Function points therefore can be used to evaluate various COTS solutions, select the best solution, and determine the degree of enhancement work that is necessary to meet customer requirements.
While an off-the-shelf solution may look cost-effective, its customization still costs money and effort.
Read the full article by Lori Holmes, Off-the-Rack or Tailor-Made…What’s the Best Fit? , which discusses the benefits and advantages of both options. Saving Changes...
