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Point vs Platform Solutions: the nitty gritty

Picture of Mark Gray
Choosing between a point and a platform solution can be tricky, especially when you need to solve both an immediate problem and prepare for longer-term (potentially undefined) needs.
Let’s compare the two in more detail:

 

Point solution

Platform
What is it?

Software that solves a single problem, e.g. a recruitment system

Software that can meet multiple needs, e.g. recruitment, onboarding, and payroll, often using a modular approach to “bolt on” features as they are needed.
Why use it?
  • Offers best-in-class features for the specific need.
  • Can usually be deployed quickly at a lower price point.
  • Easier to change.
  • Single “source of truth” for data across the company leads to better reporting.
  • Users only need to access one system.
  • Can often be customised for different user audiences in a group/international company structure.
The challenge
  • Cannot solve problems outside of its scope.
  • Having many different point solutions could lead to poor user experience, duplicate data or reporting challenges
  • May not 100% meet the need for any specific problem.
  • Can be inflexible if requirements change.
  • Usually significant costs to deploy, licence and support.
  • May require in-house specialist resources to maintain.
How to fix this
  • Investing in point solutions with API capability allows systems to “talk” to each other and exchange data.
  • Thorough business analysis to determine your requirements minimises future change requirements.
  • Opting for the standard / “model” configuration can minimise costs. 

 

How do you decide?

  • Conduct a thorough business analysis and due diligence process before inviting potential partners to submit proposals.
  • Document your requirements carefully and compare providers on the factors that matter most to you.
  • Consider your budget, available internal resources and technology strategy to help you make your decision.

 

The Bottom Line

Always consider your organisation's goals when deciding on a solution and anticipate where you would like to be positioned in the next 3 - 5 years. Choose the option that will give you the best return on your investment.

 

graylink has extensive experience in deploying point solutions for recruitment and talent to solve for the complex challenges faced by enterprise employers. Find out how we can help get your enterprise recruitment process on-track.

 

 
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