If you feel there is a need to get a resource to advance your management practices, you’ve got to go with something that will be appreciably productive – not just any type of resource. We all have learned how auto shop management software platforms are adding value to the auto repair business. They seem to command huge respect among shop owners, some of whom have gone on to gain remarkable competitive advantage – a pacesetting resource, you may say. However, considering that we can either have web-based management software or desktop-based management software, it is expedient that we take some time out to see what the differences are.
Definition
Web-Based Management Software
Web-based management software refers to the type that requires the internet for optimum operation. That said, certain features on this software can still work offline – provided you’re working on the system it had been installed.
Desktop-Based Management Software
Desktop-based management software is the type that is usually installed on a system in the office. To ensure that this type of management software is up-to-date, you will need to get the latest version – when available – from the developer or vendor selling it.
Compare and contrast: Web-based Management Software Vs. Desktop-Based Management Software
Let’s now see the differences that existed between these two shop management platforms under the following subheadings:
Functions
We begin by looking at the functions that can be performed on the two types. While the desktop-based management software is limited in the number of things that can be achieved on it, the web-based type can take care of management functions that can be automated. You can effectively communicate with your clients over a web-based management software through SMS and emails, but this is not feasible with the desktop-based type. Another aspect where you will get to value or settle for the web-based management software over the desktop-based one is the generation of business analytics. Again, digital vehicle inspections are only feasible with a web-based management software platform available. As you would have perceived, such prospects will not be possible with the desktop-based management software – which doesn’t utilize any internet connection.
Cost
Cost is another factor worth considering when we are looking at the differences between a web-based management software platform and a desktop-based sort. The former is usually costlier than the latter. This is understandable when we factor in the internet connection cost, even though you will have to pay a monthly subscription fee to keep using a web-based management software platform. Nonetheless, the cost paid for the web-based type is ultimately the cost for value.
Scalability
The scalability of any IT resources in relation to business has to do with how well it can advance (business) expansion. And in this sense, the web-based management software platform – especially cloud-based ones – has the edge over the desktop-based type. So, the growth of your auto repair shop is brighter with you subscribing to a web-based management software platform – than what you may have sticking to the desktop-based type.
