The Challenges of Post-Purchase Software Integration and Customization

At a Glance

• The main takeaway: The implementation of software should be strategic and emphasize integration and automation for maximum efficiency.
• The impact on your business: Proper data mapping is crucial when modifying software, as failure to do so can lead to data being misdirected or lost.
• Next steps: Educate internal stakeholders on the importance of strategic software implementation, with an emphasis on integration and automation.

Aprio’s experienced technology team can help tech companies fuel profitability, manage risk and prepare for regulatory changes.

The full story:

The process of purchasing software has become exceedingly straightforward. With just a credit card, one can procure solutions tailored to various business needs. While this may not be universally applicable, a significant portion of today’s organizations have shifted away from centralized procurement, largely due to the pandemic and the surge in Software as a Service (SaaS) applications.

What are the obstacles to implementing digital transformation in your business?

Illustratively, between 2015 and 2022, the average number of SaaS applications per company surged from 8 to approximately 130, and today, that figure likely surpasses 200.

Yet, the ramifications of this software proliferation extend beyond the redundancy of organizational functionalities. The true challenge emerges when companies seek to integrate and automate their operations, aiming for digital transformation policies.

While many buyers identify software solutions to address their business challenges, they seldom utilize the software straight out of the box, opting to customize it to their needs instead. They may inquire with the vendor about altering field names within the chosen tool and receive affirmative responses.

However, the crucial inquiry they fail to make concerns the implications for the software’s API or integration capabilities post-customization. It’s important to note that this is only the vendor’s fault if they know the buyer’s integration plans. Their responsibility lies in selling and ensuring the software’s functionality, not in advising on the repercussions of altering naming conventions or fields.

What risks come with limited software knowledge?

Fundamentally, the software is a tool designed to function as code.

Like a tool purchased from a hardware store, such as The Home Depot or Lowe’s, software’s performance can vary based on the user’s proficiency. For instance, hand me a hammer, nails, saw, and wood, and you’ll likely witness my ineptitude rather than any value construction. However, place these tools in the hands of a skilled contractor, and they’ll effortlessly create wonders.

Similarly, entrusting software to a buyer who needs a fuller comprehension of its usage or the consequences of modifications can lead to chaos.

Understanding application usage preference is crucial

Just as expertise is essential in tool usage, proficiency is crucial in implementing software correctly. Any intention to customize a software solution should prompt two pivotal questions:

1. Do you intend to use this application standalone or integrate it with other systems?
2. Do you need to alter the out-of-the-box fields, or can you work with ‘customer’ instead of ‘client’?

Why are these questions so vital? The answer is simple: if integration into existing systems is planned or data analysis and automation are on the agenda, these considerations matter significantly.

To underscore this, imagine a friend changing their phone number without informing you. Attempting to reach them using the old number would result in disconnection or reaching someone else entirely. Similarly, modifying software without ensuring proper data mapping is akin to changing a phone number without updating contacts.

Some might find this concept intuitive, but what happens when additional software is added, or naming conventions are altered across interconnected applications? Inevitably, data fails to reach its destination, akin to a misdialed number.

A final word

So, what’s the prudent course of action for businesses? Cease software procurement altogether? Not necessarily. However, it’s imperative to address shadow IT and educate internal stakeholders on the importance of strategic software implementation, emphasizing integration and automation for optimal utility.

Whatever challenge you’re facing, Aprio is here to help you elevate your business, boost productivity, and streamline your systems. Let’s talk.

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