Published on · Updated on · By the IT LABS PRO team
“Management software” or “management application”: the two terms are often used for one another. The difference is mostly historical, but it has concrete consequences for installation, access, updates and cost. Here is how to find your way and choose the right solution for your company.
Management software: the definition
Historically, software is a program installed on a computer (a PC or the company’s server). Before smartphones arrived, business IT almost always meant software installed computer by computer: accounting, invoicing, stock management.
Management application: the definition
The word “application” first brings mobile apps to mind, but today a management application is most often a web application: you use it in a browser, from any device, and the data is stored on an online server. Many software products have in fact become “online software”.
The concrete differences
| Criterion | Installed software | Online management application |
|---|---|---|
| Installation | On each computer or on a company server | None: a browser is enough |
| Access | From the equipped computers | From any connected device, in the office or on the move |
| Updates | Computer by computer | Once, on the server |
| Working offline | Possible | Usually needs an internet connection |
| Data | Stored locally: backups to organise | Centralised on the server, backups can be automated |
Which one for your company?
- Your teams work across several sites or are often on the move: an online application is a better fit.
- You work somewhere without a reliable connection: installed software (or an application with an offline mode) may be preferable.
- Your processes are standard: a product on the market may be enough.
- Your processes are specific: a custom solution saves you paying for features you do not use and working around the tool every day.
Either way, think about your visibility online too: a good management tool does not replace a well-ranked website for attracting new customers.
Not sure? We study your needs and recommend the most suitable solution: discover our custom management software and applications or ask for a free quote.