Technical software; a value beyond price
For those companies specialised in the creation of technical software it is becoming more and more difficult to convince their clients of the value of their products. This is partly due to the ever-increasing competition and partly the fact that customers tend to prioritise the price offered in the estimate rather than quality of service.
The budget available for such an investment is certainly a fundamental consideration, but even more important are the factors determining that budget: factors relating to timescales and development methods, which are usually details reflecting the professionalism and competence of those working on the project.
A project should be presented realistically, while recommending the most appropriate solutions to meet the client’s requirements and avoiding making promises which cannot be maintained. Promising realistic achievements and clearly stating that some points cannot be performed is sometimes a guarantee of professionalism and care from the software company. It is thus preferable to avoid companies which promise everything we requested can be done without giving us proper explanations about how it can be done.
To make sure that technical software is of a really high standard, it is essential to design it with great attention to detail, while defining a strategy which will allow real results to be achieved within the pre-established timescale. In order to do this, the company which is developing the program should, in addition to the cost estimate, provide a file containing details of the various specifications agreed with the client.
Although the world is full of companies who may be able to offer more competitive prices, in most cases identifying the lowest offer does not necessarily mean doing the best deal. Usually, a lower price corresponds to lower product quality, calculation issues, design and structural limitations, inferior work optimization, and features not in line with the level of detail necessary for our technical/manufacturing needs. These problems will emerge over time and prevent program users from carrying out their daily duties efficiently.
Software is first and foremost an investment in the future of the company, just like machinery: one cannot therefore afford the luxury of making mistakes, because it is clear that the company would suffer in the long term.
In order to assess the actual worth of programs used, the following points must be considered:
- how much time use of the programs will enable you to save each year;
- potential financial benefits they will bring;
- to what extent they will help the company to grow long-term.
As is clear from what we have already stated, technical software must be selected while bearing in mind not only its price, but also what it will actually allow you to do. The more a system is optimized in accordance with the user’s requirements, the more effectively that user can carry out their work each day thereby building company growth.
The first thing to do before deciding which software product to purchase, is therefore to assess the skills and competence of the company which you are thinking of engaging and the details of their offer as a whole. The price should be a secondary consideration and priority should be given to the principle that a good product may cost more in the short-term, but invariably leads to savings in the medium and long term.
Translated by Joanne Beckwith
