Custom vs. Off-the-Shelf Software: What’s Best for Manufacturers?

Key Manufacturing Challenges Custom Software Solves

As we’ve said, the manufacturing industry and its processes are increasingly complex. And managing numerous things at once is hardly possible without proper tech solutions. Here are the reasons why custom software is essential for manufacturing and the challenges it helps solve:

• Inefficient processes and workflows: If you’re still dealing with manual data entry and paper-based systems, custom software assists in the digital transformation of these administrative processes. It replaces the manual hassle with automated, real-time tracking and digital workflows.

Custom software isn’t just about automating tasks; it’s about crafting a dynamic ecosystem that evolves with your company.

• Data silos and integration issues: Finding it hard to connect all your software applications? Custom solutions integrate the tools you’re currently using into one cohesive system.

• Difficult data processing: When critical business information is scattered across different systems and departments, it may be challenging to make sense of it. Custom software, in turn, centralizes all data, so you can easily access it.

• Data inconsistencies and errors: If you’re using outdated systems or, worse, have to enter all data manually, mistakes can become a problem. Yet, with the right software, you automate data entry and validation, reducing human errors.

• Inventory management issues: Inaccurate inventory data typically results in production delays and lost direct-to-consumer sales. Custom software can provide real-time inventory tracking, so you always have the right materials on hand.

This was true for our client Digitron. When providing inventory management software development services, we used Kentico MVC, a real game changer. It not only improved their inventory accuracy by 42% but also reduced processing times by 30%, supporting Digitron’s scaling efforts. This system ensured they could manage complex product details efficiently, paving the way for future expansion and adaptability.

• Lack of production visibility: No clear understanding of your production capacity? Custom solutions provide real-time insights into your operations, bottlenecks, and available resources.

• Inconsistent quality control and defect tracking: Manual quality control processes and difficulty tracing defects often end up in costly rework and customer disappointment. Custom software standardizes quality checks and provides end-to-end traceability.

• Complex equipment maintenance: Unexpected equipment failures disrupt production processes and lead to costly downtime. Implementing custom software with predictive maintenance features helps prevent breakdowns and prolong equipment lifespan.

• Regulatory compliance and reporting: As a manufacturing business, you must follow various industry regulations. With custom solutions, you can automate compliance tracking, documentation, and reporting.

• Scalability and adaptability: Once again, scalability solutions are a must for a successful, competitive business. Custom software evolves with your operations and allows for easy integration of new technologies like AI and IoT.

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What are the Main Factors to Consider When Deciding Whether to Build or Purchase Software?

If you’re still choosing between custom software and an off-the-shelf solution, we can help you come up with the final decision. Ask yourself these questions:

• What is the cost of building software in-house?

Building software in-house may require substantial investment, especially if you’re from a country with a higher cost of living. For example, if an average developer makes $60-100 hourly, your project will cost around $107,400–$179,000 annually. And that’s just for one specialist.

• Have you considered long-term costs?

Pre-built software might seem cheaper upfront. However, costs add up over time — think licensing fees, upgrades, and customizations. Custom software, while requiring more investment upfront, is more affordable to maintain and more efficient in the long run.

• Will it scale with your business?

Think about whether your chosen software can adapt as you grow or whether you’ll outgrow it in a few years. Custom solutions are built with your future in mind, ensuring you don’t hit a wall when manufacturing or retail expansion comes.

• How will you handle complexity?

Over time, your manufacturing operations will become more complex, and so will your software. Consider whether each new feature will make your system harder to manage and maintain.

• Does your IT team understand your manufacturing needs?

If you’re considering developing software in-house, does your IT team have experience with manufacturing challenges? Many off-the-shelf solutions are built by general tech companies that don’t fully understand the industry’s workflows.

• Will it be user-friendly?

Even the most powerful software is useless if your team cannot make sense of it. Check whether an off-the-shelf solution is user-friendly, or, if you’re working on a custom one, ensure it’s intuitive and easy to adopt.

• How flexible does it need to be?

If your processes require frequent updates, unique configurations, or specialized automation, custom software is the better choice. If your operations change just subtly, ready-made solutions may be enough.

Tips to Hire the Right Developer for Your Custom Manufacturing Software

So, you’ve decided that investing in software solutions for your manufacturing business is the right move. How do you find a suitable developer to build it? Here are several tips:

• Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Custom software is a long-term investment, and quality comes at a price. A low-cost developer may not be experienced enough or simply lack industry knowledge — things necessary for a successful outcome.

• Stay involved throughout the process. Maintain an ongoing relationship with your developer through regular daily or weekly check-ins and task management tools.

• Always get a copy of the source code. Imagine your developer disappears, and you need urgent changes — but you can’t access the source code. That’s the scenario you wouldn’t want to face. Thus, make sure you own the code from day one.

• Clearly define your requirements before hiring. Before bringing in a developer, take the time to clearly outline your requirements. Start by listing the must-have features your software needs, identify any inefficiencies or pain points in your current system, and think ahead about scalability and integrations. For example, consider whether your business will need multi-user access, cloud storage, or API connections with existing tools. This preparation will help you find a developer who understands your specific needs and can build a solution that grows with your business.

Before bringing in a developer, take the time to list your must-have features, identify pain points in your current software, and consider future scalability and integrations. This will help you employ the right specialist.

As a company experienced in custom manufacturing software development, Bits Orchestra knows that a high-quality solution must be built with scalability, flexibility, and long-term efficiency in mind. Our developers have successfully delivered custom modules for manufacturing website builder template, an order management system, and more in between — ensuring tangible ROI for our clients.

Conclusion

Efficiency, adaptability, and scalability are a must for a successful manufacturing business. And while off-the-shelf software may offer a quick fix, it often creates more challenges than it solves. That’s why the adoption of custom software in the manufacturing sector is growing.

Let’s recap the advantages of custom software in manufacturing:

• Boosts operational efficiency with workflow automation, logistics optimization, and reduced human errors.

• Offers seamless integration by connecting with existing ERP, CRM, and IoT systems easily.

• Delivers long-term ROI by cutting unnecessary costs, reducing downtime, and scaling with your business.

In case you want to experience the benefits of custom software for yourself, reach out to our team for a consultation. We’ll come up with a suitable manufacturing solution for your needs.