Software Review of EQUINOX (Version 4.0.1)

Publication Date: 2005
Published by: CGAP Technology Resource Center
Document Type: Other (PDF)

View this Document (68 KB)   Email this Document

What are the pros and cons of the software Equinox 4.0.1?

This review of the software, Equinox 4.0.1, states that the software:

• Is best suited for large microfinance institutions (MFIs) and banks;
• Is expensive with an estimated cost of U.S. $ 800,000 for license and installation;
• Needs up to six weeks of user training, and two weeks for system administrator training;
• Provides the full range of bank and microfinance services;
• Is produced in the U.K.;
• Has been implemented in MFIs and banks in seven countries.

The review lists the following pros and cons of the software:

• Pros:
  • Focused on its core market, mainly English-speaking Africa, and spreading into French-speaking Africa;
  • Reliable and professional level of service;
  • Clear user interface;
  • Several years of experience serving MFIs in various countries.
• Cons:
  • Cumbersome reporting;
  • No clear and transparent pricing module.

The review awards the software the following ratings on its various aspects (1 star = poor and 4 stars = best):

• Functionality: 4 stars
• Ease of use: 4 stars;
• Management reporting: 3 stars;
• Services: 3stars;
• Technical capabilities: 4 stars.