In-House Packaging Tool Advantages - Information for managers!

Do not spend thousands of dollars to purchase packaging software! The Microsoft® Windows® Installer (version 3.1.4 and 4.5) offers the easiest way to package a product because it is driven by tables (installer database). Windows Installer SDK gives you ALL the tools needed to package any product without buying a third party software. You can also use alternative tools like InstEd (InstEd is a Free msi editor built for professionals). Ask your CM to develop your own internal tools. This will give you more flexibility, autonomy, complete control of the destiny of your packaging and setups, and a lot of savings at the long run.

One of the problems when Configuration Management staff make use of purchased software is that hey are simply pushing buttons and answering wizards. This is a dangerous limitation in the long run. The staff becomes blinded from the actual knowledge and sluggish as time goes. This is not a profitable answer to a company that wants to be in control of its future.

You will save your company's money by using your own In-House tools. and you will enjoy many advantages like:

• Tools can be installed anywhere – no node-locked license - it is yours and you install the tools on any of your machines and as many times as you want.
• You own the code - More predictable turn-around on bug fixes (you control the priorities).
  You get a fix in less than an hour.
  You update when you want - when your company decides to update.
• Flexibility – you can make it do anything that Windows Microsoft Installer SDK allows.
• Save your money from spending it for expensive software.
   The tools will be part of your company as any other asset and not as an expense.
• More informed and knowledgeable staff.
  You or your staff will know about how to develop with Microsoft Installer SDK and will know how to handle all possible situations.
  This is a great advantage to face any situation your company may encounter.
• Windows Installer is a straight forward table based database system.
  Your staff should have the knowledge to handle a straight forward table based database system.
• Your tools are tailored for your needs. You do not purchase functionalities that were created for someone else needs.
• Microsoft Windows Installer SDK is the industry standard (not the third party packaging software).
• Your company will not look like an ignorant company with the name of the third party packaging software displayed on all dialogs (InstallShield is good for putting its name on all dialogs - they should pay their customers to advertise their product).
  Installing a software that was packaged by a third party software demonstrate that the software being installed was packaged by push-buttons personal. Not by knowledgeable software developers.
• You create your localized versions (see French examples) without paying for language packs gimmicks!

The Microsoft® Windows® Installer offers the easiest way to install a product