Vanilla software
Vanilla software refers to applications and systems used in their unmodified, original state, as distributed by their vendors.[1] This term is often applied in fields such as enterprise resource planning (ERP),[2] e-government systems,[3] and software development, where simplicity and adherence to vendor standards are more important than expanded functionality.[4] By opting for vanilla software, organizations benefit from lower costs and straightforward maintenance, though the trade-off may include reduced flexibility and customization options.[4]
The term "vanilla" has become ubiquitous in computing and technology to describe configurations or implementations that lack customization.[3] In these contexts, it emphasizes simplicity, standardization, and ease of maintenance.[3]
Origin
[edit]The term vanilla is derived from the plain, unadorned flavor of vanilla ice cream, a connotation that dates back to its popularity as a universal base in desserts.[5][6] Within computing, the term emerged as early as the 1980s, popularized in systems and user interfaces to describe default or base states. For example, IBM's BookMaster system referred to its simplest configuration as "vanilla" and its more complex counterpart as "mocha" to signify additional features.[7]
Eric S. Raymond's Jargon File, an influential glossary of hacker slang, provides a notable definition of "vanilla," associating it with "ordinary" or "standard" states, as distinct from the default setting.[8] The use of the term expanded in the 1990s, encompassing Unix systems, where a "vanilla kernel" signified an unmodified kernel directly from the original source.[9] Video game culture also embraced the terminology, describing unmodified games without add-ons or user-created mods as "vanilla versions."[10] This versatility reflects its adaptability across various domains, from operating systems to web development and gaming.
Applications
[edit]Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP)
[edit]Vanilla ERP systems are frequently deployed to standardize business processes across organizations, minimizing risks associated with customization. While vanilla implementations align closely with vendor-provided best practices, they may limit organizational flexibility, posing the "common system paradox."[11]
E-Government Systems
[edit]Vanilla software is integral to e-government initiatives, supporting data interoperability across agencies. However, while such systems facilitate standardization, studies have highlighted challenges in tailoring these solutions to meet unique institutional needs.[12]
Software Development Practices
[edit]In programming, "vanilla" describes frameworks and tools used without extensions or alterations, which can simplify coding processes and enhance maintainability.[1]
Advantages and Challenges
[edit]Advantages
[edit]- Ease of Maintenance: Streamlined updates due to vendor adherence.
- Cost-Effective: Lower development and testing costs.
- Scalability: Provides a stable foundation for future expansion.
Challenges
[edit]- Limited Customization: May not meet specific business needs.
- User Resistance: Transitioning to vanilla systems can disrupt workflows.
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ a b Bhargav, Nikhil; Simic, Milos (12 October 2022). "Vanilla Software and Programming". Baeldung. Archived from the original on 28 November 2024. Retrieved 28 November 2024.
- ^ Parr, Anne; Shanks, Graeme (December 2000). "A model of ERP project implementation". Journal of Information Technology. 15 (4): 289–303. doi:10.1080/02683960010009051. ISSN 0268-3962.
- ^ a b c Clohessy, Trevor; Acton, Thomas, (2013) "Enterprise Resource Planning for e-Government in the Cloud." Presented at the 2nd International Conference of Informatics and Management Sciences, University of Limerick, pp. 467 – 469.
- ^ a b Kimberling, Eric (11 May 2023). "The Pros and Cons of Vanilla vs. Customized ERP Software for Your Digital Transformation". LinkedIn. Archived from the original on 28 November 2024. Retrieved 28 November 2024.
- ^ Fortini, Amanda (10 August 2005). "The White Stuff". Slate. ISSN 1091-2339. Retrieved 28 November 2024.
- ^ Mishan, Ligaya, and Melody Melamed. (2023-09-8). “How Did Vanilla Become a Byword for Blandness?” The New York Times Style Magazine
- ^ Richtmeyer, Gary. (2002). “B2H User’s Guide (HTML 3 Version): B2H: Convert BookMaster, GML, Script/VS and ‘flat’ Files to HTML.” B2H, Tampa, FL: AT&T Labs.
- ^ Raymond, Eric. 2003. “Vanilla.” The Jargon File , Version 4.4.7. December 29, 2003.
- ^ Smietanowski, Stefan. (2005–10–10). “Re: What Is the Vanilla Kernel?,” via The Linx-Kernel Archives. Bloomington: Indiana University. In an email to Jeff Shia, "Vanilla is just what people call it. You might call your car Betty, that doesn't mean it's made by the Betty Corporation nor that the model is Betty. It's simply what people call it."
- ^ Mubarak (13 August 2024). "What Does "Vanilla" Mean in Gaming? Understanding the Term for Unmodified Game Versions". Retro News. Archived from the original on 28 November 2024.
- ^ Fosser, Erik; Leister, Ole Henrik; Moe, Carl Erik; Newman, Mike (2008). "Organisations and Vanilla Software: What Do We Know About ERP Systems and Competitive Advantage?". European Conference on Information Systems Proceedings (132).
- ^ Lykke Nielsen, Marianne ; Newman, Mike. (2008). "E-government and vanilla software : The common system paradox?" Denmark: Aalborg University.