When Have You Spent Too Much on Canned Software?
Canned Software Costs
When it comes to running a small or mid-sized business, choosing the right software can have a huge impact on your productivity, efficiency, and bottom line. One of the most important decisions you’ll make is whether to invest in canned software or have a custom solution developed. If you’re asking yourself, “How much should I spend on canned software?”—Winning Solutions, Inc. (WSI) is here to help you make an informed choice.
Many business owners are drawn to off-the-shelf software with price tags ranging from a few hundred to tens of thousands of dollars. But is spending $40,000 or more on a canned software solution really worth it? Often, the answer is no—especially when that software doesn’t come with source code ownership or the ability to customize it to your exact business needs.
What is Canned Software? It refers to any prebuilt application where the customer does not own the source code. This type of software is usually developed for a wide audience and often includes a large number of features—many of which you’ll never use. The result? You pay for functionality you don’t need, and still may not get the features your business actually requires.
Why Choose Custom Software from WSI?
- Own Your Source Code: When you pay for custom software from WSI, you own it. You can modify it, resell it, expand it, or take it to another developer—no restrictions.
- Pay Only for What You Need: We build software tailored to your workflow. No cluttered menus or unnecessary modules—just what your team needs to succeed.
- Lower Long-Term Cost: Canned software often includes ongoing licensing and support fees. WSI does not charge annual maintenance—only when you request changes or new features.
- Greater Flexibility: Whether you need a desktop solution, a web-based application, or a mobile platform, WSI has the skills to build it your way.
We recently heard from a company that spent $40,000 on a software package, only to discover it didn’t fully meet their needs. They approached us for help adding new functionality—but since they didn’t own the software’s source code, changes were difficult or impossible without going back to the original vendor. This scenario is all too common—and avoidable.
Before committing to an expensive canned program, contact WSI to see what a custom Microsoft Access database or application would cost. In many cases, our solutions are more affordable, better tailored, and ultimately more cost-effective.
Considering a Software Purchase?
- Ask if the price includes source code ownership.
- Calculate the five-year cost, including support and licensing.
- Think about whether a custom solution would serve your business better.
At WSI, we never charge for estimates. Simply tell us what you need your screens and reports to do, and we’ll provide a no-obligation quote.
Let WSI Show You a Better Way
Before you invest in a prebuilt system that might not meet your long-term needs, explore the benefits of a custom solution. Call (515) 239-9900 or Contact Us today to request your free quote.
Click Here to learn more about the WSI quoting process.