AIRCRAFT MRO: HOW I SEE IT
Upgrading IT — Which software solution approach should you choose? Allan Bachan, VP, Managing Director, MRO Operations, ICF with Kyle Tuberson, Chief Technology Officer, Public Sector, ICF
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s airlines and MROs eye digital transformation, IT leaders are inundated with options for software platforms. With varying missions and distinct structures, the decision to implement a certain platform depends on each organization’s unique mission. Success depends on an IT leader’s ability to understand their organization’s unique technological capabilities and determine which features and use-cases are best-suited for a specific project. Choosing the optimal software platform, as well as strategically choosing the right innovation partner, is one of the key steps to fruitful modernization, allowing leaders to properly address long-term needs and future-proof pivotal infrastructure. Low-code/no-code platforms, open-source software, and proprietary software are a few options that IT leaders have when it comes to delivering software applications. While it’s nearly impossible to compare platforms with such different capabilities,
understanding the high-level benefits and drawbacks can help IT leaders make an informed decision on what’s best for their organization. Each technology option has more nuanced details but learning the basics about these software options can help organizations operate stronger. Further, by working with a technology partner who’s experienced in implementing these platforms, organizations can be prepared to enact the best solution for their digital transformation goals.
systems are user-friendly and agile. Because of their simplicity to build, these platforms cannot be extensively customized. An example of common business practices that low-code would be useful for is handling HR onboarding, because the systems can be applied universally to any organization. Given that these platforms are easy to use, barriers to programming are lower for anyone on staff. In turn, more senior developers can instead focus on more complex issues that require a deeper experience set.
LOWDOWN ON LOW-CODE
INSIDE OPEN SOURCE
Low-code/no-code platforms offer drag-and-drop user interfaces to build applications without the need for in-depth, hand-coded computer programming. Those using low-code systems can easily create business applications and address mission needs with talent that isn’t specialized in computer science and software engineering. Best-suited for repetitive tasks, low-code/no-code
“If you’re looking for a quick turnaround, proprietary software may be the best way to go. There’s also less need for internal talent to update the system, handle security, or enact feature enhancements.” AIRCRAFT IT MRO • SPRING 2022 • 50
Organizations can modify platforms built on open-source technology without too many constraints. Open source presents users with more white space for creation and modification. When working on a specific project, open-source software is beneficial due to its customizable and collaborative nature. Furthermore, open-source platforms help keep budgets under control, as they don’t require big upfront costs. It may also serve as a ‘free trial’ before supplemental, paid features are added on. Open source also allows for continuous improvements based on an organization’s evolving needs. These systems rely on peer review and community production for their use, which leads to higher quality. By choosing systems that are prepared
