Why It Is Better To Buy Staffing VMS Software Vs Building Your Own

Navigating the complex landscape of staffing management can be simplified by opting for a pre-built VMS solution rather than creating one from scratch.

The Financial Advantage of Purchasing Staffing VMS Software

Building a custom staffing VMS (Vendor Management System) from the ground up can seem like a great idea. You build the software to your specifications and use cases so it works exactly how you want it to work. Many staffing companies and MSPs have gone down this route and it can be a good option. However, it can also be a huge financial burden.

The initial development costs can be much more than initial estimates, involving hiring specialized software developers, paying for extended development timelines, and covering the costs of unforeseen issues that may arise. Just like building a house, once you get started, you will always add changes and upgrades as you go adding to the final cost. In contrast, purchasing a pre-built VMS solution comes with a predictable cost structure. You pay a set fee, often on a subscription basis, which can easily be budgeted for.

Moreover, the economies of scale that VMS software providers benefit from, allow them to offer their products at a lower cost than what it would take for you to build a similar system. These savings can then be allocated to other essential aspects of your business, such as marketing or expanding your staffing capabilities.

Avoiding the Pitfalls of Ongoing Maintenance

Once your custom-built VMS is operational, the journey doesn't end there. Continuous maintenance is essential to keep the system running smoothly and to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of staffing requirements. This ongoing maintenance demands both financial and human resources, often diverting attention from core business activities.

Purchasing a pre-built VMS solution eliminates many of these maintenance headaches. Established VMS providers regularly update their software to address bugs, security vulnerabilities, and evolving industry standards. This means that you can focus on what you do best—staffing—while leaving the technical upkeep to the experts.

In addition to on-going maintenance, purchasing a third party VMS also allows you to benefit from new features and functionality you may not have built into your system. As well, legislative changes could impact the software and force you to make expensive updates. 

Leveraging Robust Technical Support

In-house development teams can be limited in their capacity to offer round-the-clock technical support. Any downtime or technical issues can lead to significant disruptions, affecting your ability to manage staffing efficiently.

When you purchase a VMS solution, you gain access to a dedicated technical support team that is available to assist you with any issues that may arise. These teams are usually well-versed in their software's intricacies and can provide quick, effective solutions, minimizing downtime and enhancing your overall operational efficiency.

Maximizing Customer Support Benefits

Customer support is another critical area where pre-built VMS solutions shine. Staffing companies often require specialized guidance to make the most out of their VMS software. The customer support teams of VMS providers are trained to offer personalized assistance, helping you navigate complex features and optimize your use of the software.

This level of support is invaluable, especially when you consider the time and effort it would take for an in-house team to develop the same level of expertise. With a pre-built solution, you have a reliable partner to help you every step of the way, ensuring that your staffing operations run smoothly.

You Are in Staffing, Not Software

The lure of building a proprietary software always sounds appealing. However, building software is not core to your business, and attempting to develop your own VMS can distract from your primary objective: staffing. The time, effort, and resources required to build and maintain a custom solution can take away from activities that directly contribute to your business growth.

By purchasing a pre-built VMS solution, you allow your team to focus on what they do best. This not only enhances your operational efficiency but also allows you to leverage the expertise of specialized software providers. Ultimately, this strategic focus on your core business activities can lead to greater success and a stronger market position.