While the term “software” has entered common usage, the term “software” has not. “software package” It remains more mysterious to the general public. Yet, in the world of business and information systems, this word is fundamental.
Behind this concept lies the entire history of modern business computerization. But what exactly is a software package? How does it differ from traditional software? And why is it now central to business strategy?
This article offers you a complete, precise and up-to-date definition of the software package.
Strict definition of the Software Package
The word software package is a contraction of two terms: Product And software.
Unlike software developed specifically for a single client, a software package is a standard IT productdesigned to be sold to a large number of users or businesses.
According to the official definition (notably from the ISO/IEC 2382 standard), a software package is a “complete set of programs, procedures and associated documentation designed to be used by multiple users for a variety of applications”.
In summary: A software package is a ready-to-use software program, designed for commercial sale.
The major difference: Packaged software vs. Custom software
To fully grasp the definition of packaged software, it must be put into perspective with its historical alternative: specific development (or “custom” software).
| Characteristic | Software package (Ready-to-wear) | Custom software (Haute couture) |
|---|---|---|
| Development | Developed once, by the publisher, for a target market. | Developed specifically for a single client. |
| Personalization | Configurable (the tool can be configured), but the code is not modifiable. | The code can be modified at will to meet exact needs. |
| Cost | The cost is shared between all customers (license or subscription). | The client pays for all development costs. |
| Maintenance | Provided by the publisher through regular updates. | At the expense of the client (or the service provider who developed it). |
| Deadline | Available immediately. | It takes a long time to develop (several months or years). |
The clothing analogy
To put it simply: custom-made software is like a suit tailored specifically to your body. It fits you perfectly, but it’s expensive and takes a long time to make. Off-the-shelf software is like a standardized, mass-produced suit: you might need to make some adjustments (configuration) to get it just right, but it’s available immediately in stores.
The major families of software packages
Although the term can apply to any commercial software (such as a video game or antivirus program), it is primarily used in business to refer to critical solutions. Four main categories are generally distinguished:
A. Integrated Management Software Packages (ERP)
These are the most well-known. One ERP (or ERP in English)It allows you to manage all of a company’s processes (accounting, HR, sales, purchasing, inventory) in a single database. It is the nervous system of the company.
- Examples: Onaya BTP (Orisha Construction), SAP, Oracle, Cegid.
B. Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software Packages
Designed for centralize customer reviews or lead management, these tools manage the sales cycle and marketing.
- Examples: Riviosa, Truspilot, Salesforce.
C. Vertical (or Industry-Specific) Software Packages
These are software packages dedicated to a very specific sector of activity, offering advanced “business” functionalities that a generalist ERP does not have (e.g., medical management, materials negotiation).
D. Productivity Software Packages
Standard office tools (word processing, spreadsheets, email) are technically software packages because they are sold in “boxes” (physical or digital) in millions of copies.
- Examples: Microsoft 365, Google Workspace.
Why do companies prefer software packages?
In the 1970s and 80s, large companies developed their own computer systems. Today, 90% of software needs are met by packaged software. Why?
1. Cost control
Sharing the development cost with thousands of other customers is more economically viable than paying an in-house team of developers.
2. Sustainability and maintenance
Who guarantees that the software will work tomorrow? With packaged software, the publisher ensures maintenance, security updates, and compliance with new regulations. With custom software, if the developer leaves or goes bankrupt, the company is left without support.
3. Rapid innovation
Software publishers invest heavily in R&D. By purchasing a software package, the company instantly benefits from cutting-edge technologies (Artificial Intelligence, Cloud) that it could not have developed on its own.
4. The “Best of Breed” integration
Modern software packages often incorporate industry best practices. By using a standardized software package (such as those conforming to ISO standards), the company aligns itself with recognized industry standards, which facilitates communication with its partners.
The evolution of the software package: from SaaS to the Cloud
The definition of software package has evolved over time. In the past, software package was purchased under a “perpetual license” and installed on the company’s internal servers (On-premise).
Today, the dominant model is the SaaS (Software as a ServiceThe software package is now hosted in the cloud by the publisher. The company no longer “pays” a license, but a monthly subscription (like a Netflix or phone subscription). This transformation has made access to software packages easier, particularly for SMEs and very small businesses, by eliminating the need for large initial IT investments.
Conclusion
THE software package Therefore, it is not simply a scholarly synonym for “software”. It designates an industrial approach to software: a standardized product, tested, maintained and marketed to meet a common need.
For decision-makers, choosing an off-the-shelf software package rather than custom development is now a strategic choice for risk management and efficiency. It ensures access to a proven tool that evolves with the times and incorporates best practices from its industry.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about the Software Package
Is Windows a software package? Yes, strictly speaking, Windows is an operating system software package. However, the term is generally used in professional jargon to refer to application software (management, business, office) rather than operating systems.
Who are the software publishers? Specialized companies design, develop, and market these solutions. Famous examples include Microsoft (office software), Salesforce (CRM), or, in France, publishers like Orisha Construction (construction industry software packages).
How to choose your software package? The choice is made based on functional criteria (business needs), technical criteria (compatibility with existing systems), financial criteria (total cost of ownership) and human criteria (quality of support and ease of use).
