Software Selection

As an Architect oftenly one would evaluate different presentation technologies, reporting tools, application servers, databases, open source components, ORM, CM tools and a lot more.

Most of time selection depends on perception of team instead of facts available. Try to evaluate the options by leaving behind all perceptions. It is not difficult to find the best fit for your requirements.

We could look into the Software selection through three main aspects - Functional requirements, Non functional requirements and Strategic requirements. Every requirement has its own weight. Combination of all these scores finally help to select the software.

But sometimes it is difficult to start Software selection. For a same requirement, there can be multiple COTS and FOSS available. One may need to start with Elimination technique first based on main requirements. Narrow down the number of options. Go into Evaluation stage. And finally selection happens.

Few techniques which helps in evaluation are conducting POC's, going through case studies, finding references, identifying gaps between requirements and features available in COTS/FOSS and cost analysis covering licenses, software, hardware, customisation, implementation and maintenance costs.