There is a wonderful family-owned hardware store in the town where I live. Not only can you get any type of hardware, plumbing or electrical supply, but also a healthy dose of advice on how to accomplish the task you’ve set yourself.
On numerous occasions, I have found myself there listening to what other customers are asking about. I cannot tell you how many times I have heard, “Well, this wasn’t actually designed for what I am planning on using it for, but I figured it might work.” With a gentle but firm voice, the staff generally reply with something like, “You could try and do that, but honestly, you’re much better off using the right tool for the job.”
This adage applies to so many things in life, not the least of which is enterprise software. Whether managing your finance function, addressing your supply chain needs, or handling procurement, using the right tool for the job ensures greater efficiency. It also leads to the best possible outcome. It also saves two of the most valuable commodities in business: Time and money.
In a recent report “One Size Doesn’t Fit All: Successful Innovation the Tecsys Way” by Enterprise Applications Consulting, Josh Greenbaum explored this idea in detail. He explains that the idea of “best of suite,” promoted by large software vendors, assumes that “good enough” solutions fit most customers. However, these solutions may not solve your organization’s specific problem.
Greenbaum’s report offers a closer look at why these “one-size-fits-all” solutions often fall short, especially in industries with specific needs. By exploring these insights, it becomes clear why a more tailored approach could lead to better outcomes for your business.
This is not to say that innovation is beyond reach or that bespoke, or custom, development is the only possible solution. It simply means that finding a vendor who has developed specific, purpose-built software for your industry is the best way to achieve meaningful results for your business in an efficient and cost-effective manner.
Another consideration as you approach business software solutions is the cloud. Having your solutions reside and be managed in the cloud allows CIOs to employ a best-of-breed (rather than best-of-suite) approach. This removes the burdens of managing a complex IT landscape.
Here’s the takeaway: One size does not fit all. Whether you are trying to solve your next business challenge or tackle that list of home projects, take the time to get the right tool for the job. Life will be much easier.