Topsail Should Top Sail implement a Web-based system? Why or why not?

Top sail should implement a Web-based reservation and booking system. This type of system is necessary because it is often more convenient for customers who live in different time zones. The web-based system will also allow customers to see pictures of the time share they are going to reserve so that they know exactly what to expect when they arrive at the destination (Lin, 2010; Aaker & Mills, 2005). A web-based system is also practical because of the amount of time that people spend online and the other types of travel reservations and bookings that are handled over the internet (Dickson et al., 2009). For instance many vacationers also book flights or secure other types of transportation via the internet. As such having a web-based system makes it easier for travelers. In addition such a system is also needed because it will allow Topsail to keep meticulous records of each transaction. For all these reasons a web-based reservation and booking system is recommended for Topsail.

What software acquisition options are available to Top Sail?

The software acquisition options available to Topsail are purchase, in-house custom development, and contracted custom development (Gordon et al.). Purchase is the most common option that businesses choose and it involves purchasing the software from a vendor. This acquisition option provides the company with the needed software however; the software is generic and not customized specifically with Topsail's business strategy in mind. Gordon et al. further explain that

"Two categories of software are available: specialized pre-written...

SPA software packages perform application specific tasks such as general ledger accounting. GPA software packages perform specific. tasks but can be used for many different applications. Relative to accounting applications, the most important example is electronic spreadsheet software Gordon et al."
Topsail might also choose in-house custom development. This type of acquisition entails IT specialists within the organization custom building the reservation and booking system. For smaller companies this type of acquisition can be difficult because the proper personnel or not on staff. However if the software is acquired in this manner there can be several benefits realized. The first benefit is that the people customizing the software have a stake and interest in seeing the software do well. These individuals also know and understand the needs of the company in a way that an independent contractor may not understand the company, Additionally, "An unexpected advantage to in-house custom development is the increased morale of personnel assigned to the project who view the effort as an opportunity for obtaining or improving skills that will provide upward mobility within the firm or will increase their marketability (Gordon et al.)."

The last type of acquisition is the contracted custom development. This acquisition type works by securing a contractor to develop the system. This type of acquisition is often utilized with large companies. The disadvantages associated with contracted custom development involves complete dependence on the contractor if there…