In a memorable episode of The Simpsons (Season 2, ‘O Brother, Where art Thou?’), Homer discovers his long lost brother Herb (who owns a car manufacturing plant). Homer and Herb bond while Homer gets the chance to design his own car (which he ultimately names “The Homer”).

At the end of the episode, “The Homer” turns out to be a monstrosity – a complete disaster to say the least. The car is green, with rocket-like fins, the horn plays “La Cucaracha,” and the price tag is north of $200,000.

What does this have to do with GIS-based work order and asset management software? A lot.

When searching for a GIS-based asset and/or work order management package it’s easy to fall into a trap searching for the do-everything-system that has every bell and whistle known to man in an effort to get the most bang for your buck. The problem herein lies. We’ve seen too many people end up with a budget nightmare that is too complicated for the staff to learn, far too difficult to use, and impossible to support in future years. In summary, they end up with “The Homer.”

We’ve seen too many people end up with a budget nightmare that is too complicated for the staff to learn, far too difficult to use, and impossible to support in future years. In summary, they end up with “The Homer.”

When searching for GIS-based management software, take a minute to step back, think about the true needs of your organization, and remember that in some cases, less is definitely more.

Read an article in Public Works Magazine about the original presentation here.

Watch this episode of The Simpsons here.