Independent software vendor facts for kids
An independent software vendor (ISV) is a company that creates and sells computer software. Think of them as special businesses that focus only on making programs for computers, phones, or other devices. They don't make the actual computer hardware (like the computer itself or its parts).
ISVs make software for many different people. Some software is for a very large group of users (this is called a mass market). Other software is made for a smaller, very specific group (this is a niche market). This is different from software made in-house (by a company for its own use) or custom software (made just for one specific customer). Even though people use the software made by an ISV, the ISV still owns it.
What Kind of Software Do They Make?
ISVs create many kinds of software for different purposes. For example, they might make programs for:
- Real estate agents to help them sell houses.
- Hospitals to schedule doctors and nurses.
- Stores to scan barcodes and keep track of products.
- Companies to manage their vehicle fleets.
- Businesses that help with child care management software.
These are just a few examples. ISVs develop software for almost every industry you can imagine!
Working with Big Tech Companies
An ISV creates software that runs on different computer systems or platforms. These platforms are made by big technology companies like Microsoft, Apple, Google, IBM, Oracle, and SAP.
These big companies often help ISVs. They have special programs for "business partners." These programs allow the platform makers and the ISVs to work together. This helps both companies grow and find new business opportunities. ISVs often help spread new technologies and solutions to many users.
See also
- Commercial off-the-shelf
- Software company
- Micro ISV
