Computer software for business

There are many types of business software available. Choosing the right one depends on your business size, specific requirements, and how much you want to automate tasks.

Common types of business software

Some common types of business software include:

• word processing programs
• accounts software
• billing software
• payroll software
• database software
• asset and stock management software
• desktop publishing programs

These usually come as bespoke products or off-the-shelf software.

Pros and cons of bespoke software

You can create bespoke software designed specifically for your business, either in-house or through an external provider.

In-house software development

Creating software in-house gives you full control but requires significant technical skills and time. This option is often impractical and expensive for small businesses.

Outsourcing software development

Hiring an external provider to develop bespoke software allows for exact functionality, but it usually costs more and can create dependency on the provider for ongoing support.

When deciding between these options, consider your budget, internal expertise, future support needs, and how much time your staff can contribute to the development. For most small businesses, bespoke software may not be the best option.

Pros and cons of packaged, off-the-shelf software

Packaged software is standardised and generally cheaper than bespoke options. While it might not have all the features you need, you can often adjust your business practices to fit the software.

In some cases, you can customise packaged software to better suit your needs. For example, you can:

• change the user interface
• modify workflows to match your processes
• create custom automation rules
• integrate it with other applications

Because off-the-shelf software is sold widely, you can usually find support and training from various sources, helping to keep costs down. Just remember that you'll typically need a licence to use commercial software.

For most small businesses, standard software packages are the most practical choice. Find more tips to help you choose software for your business.