Custom software is developed specifically for your business’ particular needs, preferences, expectations, and applications. It takes your business to the next level and offers what commercial off the shelf mass market products cannot. Custom software is great for content management, inventory management, customer management, human resource management, and more.

In many cases, custom software is made up of a number of different technologies. Third party software integration, database integration, and automation are some examples of these technologies and the use of these elements often overlap.

Third Party Software Integration

Third party software integration offers the use of existing applications within the shell of the custom software, reducing extra steps for your users or tailoring the software to work with your business. Using this strategy, specific goals can be met in a more streamlined fashion.

In today's networked environments, desktop and server applications are crucial when data and databases must be shared between your staff. We can develop custom applications, or integrate existing applications, into your existing business strategy.

Here are some examples of what we can integrate for you:

• Microsoft Office
• Adobe Acrobat
• QuickBooks
• Blogs and Forums
• Tracking Solutions
• CMS or Content Management Systems
• Chats
• Shopping Carts
• Billing Solutions
• Project Management
• and more...

These types of products can make or break your business. Talk with us today to see how we can make these solutions work for you.

Database Integration and Design

What is a database? Databases are organized collections of data. Most companies are run with some sort of database that stores valuable company and client data, which may include purchasing, contact information, and more. The interface of this data is essential to provide a productive and efficient environment in which your business can operate. Some common database management systems (or DBMS) include Microsoft SQL Server, MySQL, and Microsoft Access.

Exactly how does a database work? A relational database is the preferred choice for storing data, over other types of databases. A relational database is a collection of data items organized as a set of tables from which data can be accessed easily. Most relational database models include the following components: fields, records and tables.

• A “Field” is a single piece of data.
• A “Record” is a collection of fields.
• A “Table” is a collection of records.
• A “File” is the total database including all tables, records and fields.

To see how this type of database works let’s look at a coffee shop. The coffee shop system would consist of one table. The table would include a record for each type of coffee. The record may be split into multiple fields, such as coffee name, region where it’s from, whether it is decaf or caffeinated, price, and stock status.

The info on databases is organized this way for easy retrieval through any bit of information. You could look up info based on different variables. So, we could pull up a list of all decaf coffees in stock, or look up coffees just based their region. The sky is the limit.

Having a database is a great way to organize information to help your business run more smoothly, do tasks more quickly, and in the end be more profitable. After all, time is money. Let CDS develop an interactive and intuitive application that will help you, your clients, and your business overall.

Automation

Automation uses software to “automate” repetitive tasks to save time and optimize office efficiency. Applying technology to certain functions can allow employees to focus their precious time on other responsibilities that require a human touch, increasing overall company productivity.