In the software engineering world, we build all types of software for different businesses. If you do a deep dive into software research, you’ll find tons of different methods and terminology. However, most software falls under one of three umbrellas: COTS (commercial off-the-shelf software), custom software, or the hybrid model. At Ayoka, we specialize in creating custom software solutions for our clients, but that doesn’t always mean overhauling the whole system. Sometimes, we use the hybrid model with our custom software development. With the hybrid model, we can start with your COTS software and merge it with custom solutions so that you get the most from it. Wondering if the hybrid model might work for you? Here are some signs that this model will serve your needs well.
You Want the Most Use from Your Legacy Software
The hybrid model works well for those who already have great COTS software. Many of our clients have spent a lot of money on their COTS systems and want to get the most out of them. Rather than scrapping a system that has worked well for a long time, they want to use their software until they can’t use it anymore. If that situation describes you, then you may benefit from the hybrid model. You might need just a few low-cost modifications to make your COTS last for a long time.
You’re (Mostly) Happy With Your Current Software
Similarly, the hybrid model of custom software development works for those who are mostly happy with their current software. COTS software doesn’t always cause major problems. Sometimes, it’s almost – but not quite – perfect for businesses. Do you have just a few issues with your current software? Maybe it runs smoothly overall, but you’d love to expand your database. Maybe your software provides everything you need other than one or two things that would really set your business apart. If any of these things sound familiar, then look into the hybrid software option. This way, you can get everything that you want from your new solutions while still enjoying the things you love about your current software.
You Want Customization, But You Don’t Have a Lot of Time
The benefits of custom software development are virtually endless. At Ayoka, we obviously love custom software. We’ve seen how custom software sets our clients apart from their competition. We’ve watched our clients take their companies to new heights thanks to their new software. Custom software provides the speed and scalability that COTS software just can’t handle. That said, we know that custom software development takes a lot of time. After all, you want your developers to get the job done right. Building software from scratch takes intense focus, planning, and patience.
But what if you don’t have that kind of time? Sure, you want all of the benefits of customization, but you need those benefits quickly. You don’t have the time to wait for a completely different system, and you don’t have the time to learn a new system once it arrives. In that case, the hybrid model gives you the perfect solution. You get many of the benefits of customization, but you don’t have to wait long to see those benefits. Since you’ll still have your original software, you also won’t have to learn a completely different system.
You Need Upgrades Right Now
Speaking of saving time, the hybrid model can help you save time with your software upgrades. Often, people who use COTS software need upgrades long before the manufacturers release them. The developers release those upgrades based on mass needs, not individual needs. That means that if you need upgrades right away, you may still have to wait. When you add customization to your COTS software, you can get exactly what you need right now. There’s no need to wait for it. You can stay ahead of the game.
You Want Cost-Effective Customization
Finally, the hybrid model is perfect for those who want to save money on customization. There’s a reason why lots of people use COTS software. It gives people a relatively cheap option. Unfortunately, it also leaves lots of people without the benefits of custom software development. With a hybrid model for your business, you can keep your affordable COTS software, but you’ll still get software that complements your business perfectly. You’ll also get a great ROI from your customization, just like you would with a fully customized system.
Custom Software Development
Do you want to add custom software development to your COTS software system? Ayoka is here to help. At Ayoka, we understand that your business has unique needs. We’ll get to know you and your company before we create your perfect hybrid solution. Let’s start with your free consultation. Contact us today to get started on your best software solutions.
