When selecting software for your business, you have two primary options: an all-in-one enterprise solution (single-vendor) or a best-of-breed approach (multi-vendor). All-in-one solutions attempt to cover all organisational needs with a jack-of-all-trades, master-of-none methodology. In contrast, best-of-breed solutions focus on providing the best technological tools for specific tasks, outperforming the broad but shallow capabilities of all-in-one systems.
Emerging Trends
Historically, all-in-one enterprise solutions were the go-to choice for many councils. However, a new trend is emerging towards best-of-breed stacks.
According to a recent Gartner report, 57% of respondents prefer the best-of-breed approach, while only 29% favour integrated suites. Users of best-of-breed solutions report fewer workflow gaps and higher levels of effectiveness. Similarly, a 2019 Walker Sands report found that 34% of respondents use best-of-breed integrated architecture, compared to 27% who use a single-vendor suite. Okta's findings further support this trend, with 77% of its customers using best-of-breed apps like Slack, Zoom, Box, Salesforce, and G-Suite alongside the Microsoft Office suite.
Benefits of Best-of-Breed Solutions
Extensive Functionality
Best-of-breed solutions excel at what they do because they focus on one specific area. They offer newer technology with deeper capabilities, frequent updates, and greater product innovation compared to full-suite enterprise solutions.
Improved User Experience
These solutions provide a tailored user experience for their specific function, leading to better resource allocation, increased efficiencies, and the breakdown of organisational silos.
Reduced Time and Cost
With fewer stakeholders involved and a specialised focus, best-of-breed systems are simpler and quicker to implement than all-in-one solutions.
Scalability and Agility
Best-of-breed solutions are easier to scale and adapt, ensuring peak performance. In contrast, tuning a large all-in-one system can be challenging, particularly if the system doesn't meet your needs.
Ease of Integration
Multiple best-of-breed solutions can be integrated without data silos. These systems offer flexibility, allowing you to connect various tools through light integrations and streamlined processes.
Robust Results through Partnerships
Using best-of-breed solutions through partnerships with various technology vendors ensures the most robust and effective results. By leveraging the expertise and innovation of specialised vendors, organisations can achieve superior performance and functionality.
Application in Local Government
Adopting best-of-breed technology can significantly enhance the experience for both staff and the community in local governments. Specialised software for each task leads to more efficient internal processes.
Staff Benefits
- Streamlined Workflows: Automating manual tasks and improving collaboration allows staff to focus on higher-level tasks, increasing overall productivity.
- Specialised Tools: For example, Pulse’s Projects module enhances program and project delivery, governance, execution performance management, and reporting capabilities throughout the project lifecycle. Similarly, Pulse’s Talent module supports HR staff in managing and supporting employees and contractors from recruitment to performance management.
Community Benefits
- Efficiency and Transparency: By choosing the right software for each task, local governments can streamline processes, enhance communication, and increase engagement, leading to more efficient, transparent, and accountable operations.
To fully realise the benefits of best-of-breed technology, local governments must carefully evaluate their needs and choose the right tools for each task. This involves considering the specific requirements of each department and ensuring integration between different systems.
Adopting best-of-breed technology can transform local government operations, improving the experience for both staff and the community by creating a more efficient, transparent, and accountable environment.
Pulse Software boasts a robust partner network that enables us to meet a wide range of technical requirements, from simple to complex. To learn more about our collaborative efforts and how we address our customers' needs, please get in touch.
