We have a term we use a lot in our business when discussing software: “Blinky, blinky.” Blinky blinky to us is a great way to explain the low value of software by itself. Software, for the sake of software, is actually useless. This is a really harsh way to explain it, but it’s important to keep in mind.

Software guys can get super into all the features that their software has. “Oh, and it can do this. And it can do that. And, and, and.” From the perspective of a business owner or executive, the truth is, who cares? Software is only valuable when it’s oriented to helping make happen the real processes in real life that need to occur. It provides the data to help people make great decisions. This is when software is truly valuable.

But this requires starting with the question, “So what needs to actually happen in real life for this business?” It all starts with the process itself. When we design software, we focus on the actual needs of the business processes. What are the steps involved? Who are the key players? What information is crucial at each stage? These are the questions that matter.

Take, for example, a sales process. The core of this process is pretty straightforward: getting/inputting leads, scheduling them for calls, closing deals, and following up. Now, if the software you use for this process has 100 features but only 10 are relevant to these core activities, the other 90 features are just “blinky blinky”. They add noise and complexity without adding value.

Project Management is another good example. The whole point of managing a project is planning tasks, assigning them, tracking progress, and ensuring deadlines are met. If your project management tool is loaded with features like customizable themes, complicated reporting options, and multiple integrations but doesn’t make assigning tasks and seeing a clear picture of the status of a project easy, it defeats the whole process. The features are there, but they don’t facilitate the actual work that needs to get done.

The problem with focusing on features is that it shifts the focus away from what truly matters: accomplishing the goals of the business. More features don’t necessarily mean better software. In fact, more features can often mean more distractions, more training, and more potential for things to go wrong. When software doesn’t help make the process happen in the business, it really doesn’t benefit anyone.

This is why at Studio98, we focus on one mission: Goals, Achieved. Any software we have, or help clients implement is done through the lens of the real-life processes in the business. We want to cover all areas of a business in a way that is intuitive and user-friendly. Instead of offering countless features that may or may not be useful, we prioritize the features that will help businesses run efficiently and effectively.

When software is designed with a clear understanding of business processes, it doesn’t need to be flashy. It needs to be functional. It needs to provide the right data at the right time. It needs to facilitate decision-making and streamline operations. This is where the real value is.

So, the next time you’re evaluating software, don’t be distracted by the blinky blinky. Ask yourself, “How does this help my business achieve its goals?” Look for software that understands your processes, supports your team, and drives your business forward. Because at the end of the day, software for the sake of software is useless. Software that helps you achieve your goals is priceless.

If you have any questions, or like to know more, click here to schedule a call with Stiven