Manufacturing SMEs using web services but still want their own software

Yet, despite 86% using some type of web-based application, such as online email or CRM (customer relationship management) packages, eight out of 10 still prefer to own and install software locally. The company found 59% of respondents, for example, using free web-based email services, but 95% still preferring to pay for and install email packages Mamut says the purpose of its research was to identify attitudes towards web-based software at a time when ubiquitous broadband Internet connection is leading to the availability of new services every day. Its findings suggest that UK businesses are very aware of the cost and remote access benefits that web software provides, but are more comfortable with the traditional method of installing and running it locally. “The good news is that UK companies are happy with their business software and are attracted to using web-based services, even if this is simply a cost argument,” says Alan Moody, UK managing director of Mamut Software. “What is clear is that they still want the advantages of installed software, like security and functionality. What they need is a model than realises the advantages of both.” Eilert Hanoa, Mamut CEO and Vice Chair of the European Software Association (ESA), adds: “Security is a continuing concern for web-based services and a challenge that needs to be addressed by the whole software industry working together. Associations like the ESA are currently addressing this issue on a pan-European level. For example, we are looking at how suppliers can be certified in order for the customers to know which companies are offering secure solutions to customers and which are not.”