Frequently-Asked Questions

• When Custom Software Isn't for You
• Can I afford custom software?
• How Do We Get Started?
• What Does DataCorp Deliver?
• What Does DataCorp Do When the Project Ends?

When Custom Software Isn't for You

In some business environments, it is not appropriate to automate every procedure. For instance, if a small bank has built its reputation on the personalized service it offers, it would be counter-productive to make loan decisions based solely on a computer's appraisal. However, such a program could serve as a valuable tool for preliminary evaluations.

One of DataCorp's aims is to help you find the areas where custom software will benefit your business. If automation is not for you, or if there is a more efficient means of accomplishing the savings of time or money that you desire, we will tell you.

Can I afford custom software?

If your company can save money and work faster with custom software, the better question is "Can we afford to operate without it for the next five years?"

For a very complicated program, the up-front cost may be considerable. However, you begin to realize benefits from the day the software in installed - and everyday after that. The program will pay for itself in a very short time. If you like, we can even help you identify specific amounts to be saved so that you can target you break-even date.

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How Do We Get Started?

First, we ask that you first make a general list of the specific goals and functions to be accomplished by the software you want. This could be a simple "wish list" or a complete specification document prepared by someone at your company or by an independent consultant or firm.

Next, contact DataCorp to set up an appointment. Our initial meeting is free of charge. There may be additional meetings for DataCorp to get more information on your company's requirements and business practices.

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What Does DataCorp Deliver?

We typically deliver some or all of the following items for each project or revision:

• An installation program for Windows applications

• Database files or SQL scripts for creating databases

• For many Windows applications, a single EXE file

• For Web projects, a combination of HTML, ASP, ASPX, DLL files will be installed by DataCorp

• Documentation upon request.

• All source code upon request

What Does DataCorp Do When the Project Ends?

DataCorp will support and maintain software we write for its entire life-time.

What we mean by the life-time of software is that time during which currently manufactured hardware and operating-system software platforms can run the software we have written for you.

For example, DataCorp still supports Clipper applications that we wrote for MS-DOS in the 1980's and early 1990's. We can make changes to accommodate changing rules of business. We can continue doing so as long as currently-available PC hardware and operating systems can run MS-DOS applications. An application's life-time ends when currently sold hardware and software is no longer able or is incompatible with MS-DOS.

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