CHM Software: Why Ukrainians Still Use Russian Software — and How to Change This
IT ClusterWe usually consider the main challenges for the IT business to be relocation, a decrease in demand for IT services, or a loss of trust from foreign clients. While these are real issues, one of the most dangerous threats may be much closer to home — in the everyday technologies we work with daily. Today, a large portion of Ukrainian businesses — often unknowingly — still support the enemy by using Russian software.
According to the «Enemy Software» project, 75% of Ukrainian users still use «1C,» one of the most widely used Russian IT products. In total, over 40 Russian software products are still operating in the Ukrainian market.
This is not just a matter of moral choice. It is a gateway for cyber threats, a tool for digital espionage, and financial support for the occupying army.
To dive deeper into this issue, Kharkiv IT Cluster spoke with Dmytro Agapov, the owner and CEO of CHM Software and PayKit. With over 15 years of experience in retail and trade automation, Dmitry explained why using Russian software is a real threat to business and national security.
Why is Russian Software Still with Us?
Many Ukrainian companies still use Russian software for several reasons:
- Inertia and Legacy
For decades, businesses have been working with 1C, «Garant,» «Consultant+» — these systems have become deeply embedded in business processes, and many fear that switching will lead to chaos. - Lack of Legislative Pressure
Government agencies have been prohibited from using Russian software since 2017. However, in the private sector, there is no strict accountability. - High Transition Costs
New software means training, data migration, and process adaptation. Amid economic turbulence, even progressive companies often postpone these changes. - Lack of Knowledge about Alternatives
Many simply do not know that Ukrainian solutions already exist and are often better than their Russian counterparts. - «If it’s working, don’t touch it»
Some companies avoid changing their software because of the principle “if it works, don’t touch it.” They either don’t realize the risks or consider them unlikely.
Sometimes, the problem is different: Russian software adapts, masks itself, and rebrands to stay on the Ukrainian market. A prime example of this is Syrve. Today, this system is used by about 70% of large restaurants in Ukraine, but few know that it is not a new player, but a rebranded Russian Iiko. After the full-scale war began, the brand changed its name to maintain its position not only in Ukraine but also in Europe.
The enemy has not only stayed; it has learned to mimic. And while businesses think they are using a «neutral» or «international» solution, they are supporting the technologies of the aggressor country.
There is an alternative. And it is Ukrainian
The Ukrainian market offers numerous alternatives to Russian software that not only meet security requirements but are also tailored to Ukrainian legislation and business realities. Here are the main examples:
Chameleon POS (CHM Software)
Chameleon POS is a comprehensive sales and accounting POS system from CHM Software, which develops software solutions for businesses. The software combines a point-of-sale program, a web application for accounting and management, a loyalty and promotions module, online orders, integrations, and a software register of settlement operations.
Key benefits of this system:
- works offline or on any communication channel;
- 100% licensed software with free OS and database management;
- one server for an unlimited number of POS terminals;
- built-in inventory management and stock control without interrupting sales;
- module for managing promotions and loyalty programs;
- convenient dashboard for monitoring trade processes;
- handles online orders directly at the point of sale.
Debet Plus
Компанія «Debet Plus» is a Ukrainian software developer specializing in automation for accounting, operational, and financial records. It provides a full range of services for business process automation, including software development, implementation, and support. The «Debet Plus» software suite is designed for enterprises, institutions, and organizations of various sectors.
Dilovod
Dilovod is a Ukrainian online service offering software for accounting, management tasks, and business reporting. The system simplifies financial management, inventory tracking, and report generation without requiring deep accounting knowledge. The platform also integrates with the Ukrainian software register of settlement operations. Its goal is to optimize business processes with a convenient and secure online solution.
PayKit POS
PayKit POS is a software solution for small and medium-sized businesses in retail, services, and hospitality. It includes cloud billing, a POS system with electronic fiscalization, inventory management, and automation of sales and accounting. PayKit helps businesses meet tax legislation requirements, reduce costs, and improve efficiency.
The cloud-based POS system allows smartphones to serve as POS terminals through banking acquisition. It provides centralized management of retail points, real-time analytics and reports, inventory tracking, expenses, and finances, as well as the ability to conduct inventory without halting sales. The system supports connecting scales, has an API for integration with other systems, and can operate offline.
ULTRA
ULTRA offers software solutions for automating business processes across various sectors, such as restaurants, retail, hotels, and fitness centers. Their software simplifies accounting, management, and reporting, providing real-time analysis and integration with modern equipment. They offer customizable solutions to improve business operations for both small and large companies.
Bimp
Bimpsoft is an inventory management system that enables efficient stock control and business automation. The platform is suitable for small and medium businesses, offering transparent analytics and flexible customization to meet user needs. With its intuitive interface and wide functionality, Bimpsoft helps increase productivity and optimize daily team operations.
How to Transition from 1C?
Transitioning from one management system to another, such as from 1C to a new platform, requires careful planning and organization. Here is a general approach to this transition that can be adapted to various systems, including POS systems:
- Assess Needs and Plan
The first step is to define why you want to change the system. What specific problems are you trying to solve? What features does your business need? Analyze current processes and discuss with experts the possibilities of the new system. Create a detailed transition plan, specifying deadlines, responsible persons, and necessary resources. It is recommended to implement the system gradually to reduce risks. - Choose and Configure the New System
Select the system that best meets your needs. Consider the scale of your business, the number of sales points, and the necessary functional capabilities. Set up the system according to your business specifics and import data from the previous system. Check for integration possibilities to automate data exchange between different platforms. - Prepare Equipment
Ensure your equipment is compatible with the new system. Carefully determine optimal locations for installing devices like terminals, printers, and scanners, and configure them for smooth operation. - Testing and Verification
Conduct thorough testing of the new system and equipment. Test various operational scenarios, such as processing sales, returns, and generating reports. It is important to involve key employees in testing to check functionality and ease of use. - Staff Training
Organize training for your staff so they can work effectively with the new system. Provide access to necessary documentation and create opportunities for ongoing technical support in case of questions. - Launch and Monitoring
Launch the system and actively monitor its operation. Regularly collect feedback from employees to improve processes and enhance work efficiency. Use technical support to resolve any issues quickly.
It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Russian Software
Transitioning away from Russian software is a matter of national security and the future. By using software from the aggressor country, we not only put our businesses at risk but also jeopardize our country.
Kharkiv IT Cluster, together with CHM Software, emphasizes that Ukraine now has full-fledged alternatives to Russian programs. Ukrainian solutions not only perform at a high level but also meet our realities, laws, and requirements.
It’s time to step out of the shadow of outdated solutions and choose technologies that meet the demands of today.
