5b Custom-written Vs. Off-the-shelf ***

Question 0

Compare the use of custom written and off-the-shelf solutions for the new stock control system. (3 marks)

Answer 0

FEATURES: the custom written software will do exactly what you want whereas an off-the-shelf solution will contain bloat ware
MEMORY: There will be no unwanted functions with a custom written solution whereas an off-the-shelf solution will contain these, increasing the memory footprint
COST: The software copyright will belong to the firm with a custom written solution and can be sold to recover development costs whereas an off-the-shelf solution is a much cheaper one off purchase

Question 1

Explain the advantages of selecting a custom-written solution. (6 marks)

Answer 1

the company gets exactly what it wants (1) the solution performs only the functions the airline needs it to (1)
the final system exactly matches the user’s requirements (1) no redundant features taking up memory (1)
the system can be modified over time to stay compatible with the needs of the airline (1) internal and external changes can be reflected in the training package with updates being written specifically to suit (1)
it can be sold to other similar companies once it is produced (1) the development costs can be recouped as the airline will own the copyright (1)
the footprint is likely to be smaller than an off-the- shelf solution (1) saving costs on memory/storage solutions for multiple users (1)

Question 2

Describe three implications for the regional Mountain Rescue Organisation of the software application not meeting their requirements. (3 marks)

Answer 2

increased costs (1) which will require reduced service to compensate/extra money spending reducing other services (1),
time delays (1) reduce efficiency of service/endanger public (1),
technical failure of ICT (1) will lead to late arrival to scene (1)

Question 3

Give two comparisons between custom written and off-the-shelf solutions for a replacement stock control system within a small business. (4 marks)

Answer 3

FEATURES: the custom written software will do exactly what you want whereas an off-the- shelf solution will contain bloat ware.
MEMORY: there will be no unwanted functions with a custom written solution whereas an off-the-shelf solution will contain these, increasing the memory footprint.
DEVELOPMENT COST: with custom written solution the development cost is paid by one person/organisation whereas an off-the-shelf solution cost is shared by many

Question 4

Explain three issues the dental surgery will have to consider when getting support for the custom-written system. (6 marks)

Answer 4

charges relating to support can be high (1) as no one else can support it as effectively as the authors (1)
the company that write the system may have a licence agreement preventing anyone else looking at the code (1) prevents third parties supporting it (1)
documentation needs to be read and understood by others offering support (1) documentation might not be well laid out/explained (1).