If you can, go for locally developed software

If you can, go for locally developed software

One thing we may not consider when selecting our software is how
our choices may benefit the local industry, but using locally
developed software applications have many positive returns.

First of all, in using local products, you will contribute to
the growth of the local software industry, which translates into
the creation of more job opportunities for local programmers --
the best training ground for local talents.

Second, you will help save the nation's foreign exchange
resources. Third, if you need technical assistance, help is just
around the corner. Fourth, there is the price advantage, too, as
local applications tend to be more affordable than imported
international products.

There are also other benefits that people may overlook.
Keeping in mind that government regulations are never the same
from country to country, it is in this context that locally
developed software may shine. Local software are usually custom-
tailored to meet local requirements, built from the ground up in
line with various requirements imposed by the government on
businesses and other organizations -- including tax benefits and
the national workers social security program, or Jamsostek.

Indonesia has never been short of capable software developers.

Realta Chakradarma, for example, has a software development
division that has been providing local businesses with
applications such as a trading and distribution system, a hotel
information management system and a golf course management
system. The company has been in existence for over 21 years and
is an active player in the local software industry.

Another is Andal Software, which develops human resources
management and payroll systems, among other administrative
systems. Then there is Pratesis, which develops applications for
major distribution companies and workflow automation.

The widely diversified Metrodata also has a business
application development division that has been working on a wide
variety of applications, including sales force automation.

Is there an association for all these local software
developers? Yes -- check out the Indonesian Telematics Software
Association, known locally as ASPILUKI, at www.aspiluki.or.id.
The association already has 62 active members, but this does not
include the newer and smaller software developers.

Granted, the majority of local developers may have to work
harder to improve their services, as a great product does not
mean much today if it does not come with great services. In
addition, if you look closely at their offerings, their product
range may still be slightly limited.

However, many local developers offer packaged solutions
created upon their experience in helping clients install a new
system. As the human resources development (HRD) system is one of
the most used applications, many of them have become experienced
in developing HRD systems -- one of the most widely available
applications.

If you have rather unique business requirements, you will also
contribute more by working with a local developer, providing them
with additional experience and knowledge of a different business
requirement.

So, you will do a lot for our national economy if you go with
local software developers whenever possible.

-- Zatni Arbi