Enterprise application software (EAS), is computer software used to satisfy the needs of an organization rather than individual users. Such organizations include businesses, schools, interest-based user groups, clubs, charities, and governments.
Enterprise software is a multi-disciplinary approach, and often includes functions such as CRM (Customer relationship management), BI (Business intelligence), operations and order fulfillment, online payment processing, accounting, and more. If you are considering developing Enterprise Software, here are some of the considerations you should take into account:
Scalability
No matter the size your business is now or in the future, EAS software should be developed to change along with your business. This way, your software can grow with you as an organization. If your enterprise app is not scalable, it will not work in an environment in which potentially thousands of users access the same features at the same time. It is also designed to be able to add additional features over time.
Performance
You want your software to be reliable even for a small number of users, and perform optimally. If the app cannot reliably perform to that level, you have a problem on your hands. Details of performance should be discussed with your custom software partner to ensure it’s being built with high-performance in mind.
Security
Access by potentially thousands of employees also means that your app security becomes absolutely paramount. Various employee hierarchies within your company should have various security clearances, allowing them to see the information and data relevant to their operations. You will also want to build in security ‘checkpoints’ and benchmarks that enable you to check regularly whether any issues with security are going on so that you can react proactively and stop a potential breach.
Cost
This usually covers initial outlay and ongoing maintenance, Small-to-mid-sized businesses can expect the cost of software and services combined to range anywhere from $75,000 to $750,000.
Considerations to make regarding the buy-in of the use of your Enterprise Application Software:
This will be an important internal tool that you will want everyone to use and you’ll need buy-in from the entire organization.
Will this software work across ALL areas of our business?
What areas of your business need to be included in the app in order to serve your company?
Enterprise software is built with the goal of serving the organization, rather than individual users or small departments. That being said, that doesn’t mean it is an all or nothing approach. It is important to create a plan starting with areas that software will have the biggest impact on your business goals, and a path to incorporating more business functions over time.
What is the main pain point you have internally right now?
How can new enterprise software solve this for you? What are you wanting custom software to solve? When considering the pain points, also consider the consequences of those pains. For example, maybe the task is painful because it takes someone a few minutes longer than you desire. Or maybe it costs your company thousands of dollars. Evaluating the pain points and the impact of improving those areas will help you prioritize your plan.
What change do you want to see happen in your organization with the use of this new tool?
Discuss this with your team and come up with common goals together. This will ensure that you are building something that solves a real business problem. It will also make it clear to the software partner how they can help you.
Complete a final analysis:
Don’t make the decision on cost alone. Instead, incorporate reputation, stability, R&D, and references into the decision-making process.
Whether it’s invoicing or supply chain management, the need for a more robust CRM or more custom business operation functions, enterprise software can change the way you do business.
Have more questions about enterprise software development? We’d love to answer them. Schedule a free consultation.
