There is a trend in the software industry for organizations to move from in-house developed software to commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software and software developed by contractors. Software developed by contractors who are not part of the organization is referred to as outsourcing organizations. Contractors working in another country are referred to as offshore software developers.
COTS software is normally developed prior to an organization selecting that software for its use. For smaller, less expensive software packages the software is normally “shrink wrapped” and is purchased as-is. As the COTS software becomes larger and more expensive, the contractor may be able to specify modifications to the software.
Differences or challenges faced with COTS software include:
• Task or items missing
• Software fails to perform
• Extra features
• Does not meet business needs
• Does not meet operational needs
• Does not meet people needs
Many organizations select COTS software on evaluation which is a static analysis of the documentation and benefits of the software, versus performing an assessment which the software will be tested in a dynamic mode before use.
The following seven-step process includes those activities which many organizations follow in assuring that the COTS software selected is appropriate for the business needs. Each of the processes is discussed below:
• Assure Completeness of Needs Requirements
• Define Critical Success Factor
• Determine Compatibility with Hardware, Operating System, and other COTS
• Software
• Assure the Software can be Integrated into Your Business System Work Flow
• Demonstrate the Software in Operation
• Evaluate People Fit
• Acceptance Test the Software Process
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