Definition: NIH syndrome

(Not Invented Here syndrome) The habit of re-inventing the wheel. In the software world, the NIH syndrome often refers to developing an in-house application even though there is a totally adequate software package available on the market. Using a store-bought application may be construed as a sign of weakness or lack of company pride.

The NIH syndrome is also apparent in the lack of consistency between user interfaces. For example, the user interface in two apps that do the same thing very often hardly resemble each other, which makes it difficult for people who use both or who switch between platforms. See user interface.

Even a Simple Browser Download

Knowing where to find the download is different on three major browsers. The Snagit 2019 screen capture program displayed this helpful guide to make sure users find the software they just downloaded.