Unit V PowerPoint Presentation: Create A 7-10 Slide Presenta

Unit V Powerpoint Presentationcreate A 7 To 10 Slide Presentation Com

Create a 7- to 10-slide presentation comparing and contrasting two major off-the-shelf software packages that could be implemented in an organization. Identify which functionality would be likely to be used as-is, and highlight what may need to be added or modified. Briefly describe what issues you may be likely to face in the effort to modify the package. You may use various sources from the company web site. Be sure to cite all sources used in a reference slide with proper APA formatting. (Cover and reference slides do not count in the length requirement). You may also use the slide notes function. Be sure to include the following in your presentation:

- Two major off the shelf software packages

- Description of how they may be used in an organization

- Identification of features to be used as-is, possible modifications and additions

- Brief summary describing issues to be faced in the modification of the package

- Proper APA formatting of citations and references

Paper For Above instruction

Comparison of Two Major Off-the-Shelf Software Packages for Organizational Implementation

In today’s fast-paced business environment, organizations increasingly rely on off-the-shelf software solutions to streamline operations, improve efficiency, and stay competitive. Selecting the appropriate software package involves careful analysis of its functionalities, adaptability, and the potential challenges related to customization and implementation. This paper compares two widely-used off-the-shelf software packages—Microsoft Office 365 and Salesforce CRM—highlighting their features, how they can be utilized within an organization, potential modifications, and the issues that may arise during customization.

Major Off-the-Shelf Software Packages

The first software package, Microsoft Office 365, is a comprehensive suite of productivity tools including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Teams. It is designed to improve communication, collaboration, and document management across organizations of all sizes (Microsoft, 2023). The second software, Salesforce Customer Relationship Management (CRM), is a leading cloud-based platform used to manage customer data, automate sales processes, and enhance customer engagement (Salesforce, 2023). Both packages serve distinct functions but are integral to the digital transformation of organizations.

Usage in an Organization

Microsoft Office 365 can be implemented across departments such as administration, HR, and marketing to facilitate document creation, communication, and project collaboration. Its tools like Teams enable remote teamwork and real-time communication, fostering productivity in a hybrid work environment (Microsoft, 2023). Salesforce CRM, on the other hand, is primarily used within sales, marketing, and customer service teams to track customer interactions, generate sales reports, and automate marketing campaigns. Its integration capabilities allow seamless data sharing with other organizational systems.

Features Used As-Is

Both software packages offer robust functionalities that can be utilized immediately upon deployment. Office 365’s core features such as document editing, email management, and virtual meetings meet the fundamental needs of modern organizations (Microsoft, 2023). Salesforce’s sales pipeline management, contact tracking, and reporting tools are standard features that efficiently support customer management activities (Salesforce, 2023). Utilizing these features as-is enables organizations to derive immediate benefits without extensive customization.

Potential Modifications and Additions

Despite their extensive features, organizations might require modifications to tailor the software to specific workflows. For instance, integrating Salesforce with existing ERP systems or customizing dashboards to display organization-specific metrics could enhance operational efficiency (Mendelow & Whittle, 2022). Similarly, Office 365 might necessitate custom add-ins or plugins to support specialized document workflows or compliance requirements—such as automating document approvals or integrating with industry-specific applications (Microsoft, 2023). Custom development may also involve creating templates, macros, or workflows aligned with organizational policies.

Issues Likely Faced in Modification

Customizing off-the-shelf software often introduces technical and organizational challenges. Compatibility issues may arise when integrating new features with legacy systems, leading to potential data inconsistencies or system conflicts (Kraut et al., 2021). Additionally, customization can increase complexity, requiring specialized technical skills, which might entail higher implementation costs and longer deployment timelines. There are also concerns related to maintaining software updates, as customized features may need reconfiguration after software upgrades—potentially disrupting existing workflows (Mendelow & Whittle, 2022). Resistance from staff accustomed to default functionalities can further hinder successful adaptation.

Conclusion

Both Microsoft Office 365 and Salesforce CRM exemplify powerful off-the-shelf solutions that can significantly transform organizational operations when properly implemented. While their core functionalities can often be used immediately, organizations should carefully plan for necessary modifications to optimize utility, considering the technical, operational, and human factors involved. Recognizing potential issues early, including integration challenges, higher costs, and change resistance, is essential to achieving a successful implementation that enhances overall organizational efficiency and competitiveness.

References

• Microsoft. (2023). Microsoft 365 documentation. https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/microsoft-365
• Salesforce. (2023). Salesforce CRM overview. https://www.salesforce.com/products/overview
• Mendelow, A., & Whittle, R. (2022). Customizing enterprise software: Strategies and challenges. Journal of Information Technology Management, 33(4), 12-24.
• Kraut, R., Jang, J., & Ma, M. (2021). Integration issues in enterprise software implementation. International Journal of Information Systems, 45, 89-101.