Off-the-Shelf (Pre-written) Software

Off-the-shelf software, also referred to as pre-written or packaged software, consists of programs developed for the general market to address the common needs of many users. Examples include word processors, spreadsheets, and computer games.• Advantages: ◦ Cost-Effectiveness: These packages typically cost less than custom software because the development and maintenance costs are shared among many customers. ◦ Immediate Deployment: Users can start using the software almost immediately after purchase, avoiding the long wait times associated with development and testing.• Limitations: ◦ Generalization: Because they are designed for a broad audience, they may not meet the specific needs of an individual organization effectively. ◦ Efficiency: The operating efficiency for a specific user's unique tasks may be lower compared to software designed specifically for those tasks.Custom (Customized) SoftwareWhen pre-written packages do not meet specific requirements, an organization may choose to create customized software. This software can be developed in two primary ways:1. In-House DevelopmentOrganizations with their own IT departments may develop software internally.• Pros: This method offers the most control. It is easier to carry out changes and modifications because the team is internal. In-house development is often chosen for systems that provide a competitive advantage or contain proprietary data.• Cons: It requires a major commitment of time, money, and resources. Maintaining a software development team is expensive and may not be justifiable for organizations that do not need to develop software regularly.2. Outsourced (Ordered) DevelopmentOrganizations without internal expertise can hire external vendors to create the software.• Process: This involves defining requirements, floating tenders, and selecting a vendor based on cost and reputation. If the vendor supplies both hardware and software as a single package, it is referred to as a turnkey solution or end-to-end solution.• Pros: The user does not need to maintain an expensive internal development team.• Cons: The user becomes dependent on the vendor for future changes, often paying separately for each modification.Hybrid and Modern ApproachesIn modern software engineering, the line between custom and off-the-shelf is sometimes blurred:• Out-of-the-Middle Approach: Designers may use a mix of top-down and bottom-up approaches, utilizing existing reusable software components to build a target system. This leverages the maturity of the software industry where components for many domains already exist.• Software as a Service (SaaS): This is a model where software is licensed on a subscription basis and hosted centrally (e.g., Salesforce, Google Docs). It allows organizations to access applications via a browser without upfront capital investment in infrastructure or licenses.• Customization of Pre-written Software: Vendors developing custom software may incorporate pre-written packages partially to meet requirements, reducing development cost and time.