Last week saw the launch of DeployIT, which claims to be SA`s first standalone software deployment company. The company, which makes use of its own specialised development software - as well as the well-known deployment software, InstallShield - works mainly in the Microsoft environment, but has the ability to "re-reprogramme and deploy literally and software, including payroll, human resources and accounting software," says DeployIT MD, Jaco Venter.
Venter says that many companies make the mistake of trying to deploy their own software, which often leads to a plethora of technical issues that can affect efficiencies and consumes additional ICT time. "We do not only specialise in the development of installations, we also sell, support, provide tools, and training in order to make the deployment of our clients` products that much easier," he adds. Venter says that size of the consultant market "in terms of software deployment" is unknown, as it is an "embryonic market". "DeployIT is the only company practising in the software deployment market. We expect other companies to realise that there is an emerging market here- but we do not expect competition for at least two years or so, "Venter states. He says the company already boasts eight regular clients, and is aiming to raise this number to more than 20 by April 2005. Clients include Pastel Software and Total.
"While we currently focus on the InstallShield market, we are developing our own deployment software, which, in the near future, will be deployed as an add-on to InstallShield. By the second quarter of next year we plan to launch our own solution, currently code-named Deploy Master, at which point we will offer the marketplace two solutions. We aim to phase out InstallShield, and focus on our solution only by the end of 2007," he adds. Venter comments that the provision of training in software installation and deployment currently accounts for 20% of the company`s revenue. "We are about to embark on a training project with Sanlam, where we will be training 17 staff members in the basics of Windows Installer and how to use InstallShield with it to gain better software deployment results. Training is likely to remain a pivotal part of our business. It may grow beyond the current 20% contribution," he concludes.
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