Is OpenSource SCM Software Appropriate for Me?
While OpenSource SCM software has many attractive features including cost, it may not be the appropriate solution for all SMEs. In the Indian context, the suitability of an OpenSource solution depends on the availability of the required software and implementation skills in-house. As mentioned earlier, most OpenSource software comes only with online documentation and limited or no support. If a high level of skills is available the then the company can consider downloading and implementing a fully free software such as Compiere. If only implementation skills are available, using an OpenSource package like OpenMFG may be a better approach. Or alternatively, the SME can consider engaging a local developer to custom develop an SCM solution using OpenSource tools. This approach has the advantage of meeting the specific needs of the SME and may also provide superior support and maintenance while keeping the costs down. Another approach to implementing OpenSource SCM packages is to engage a
