8 Tips to Develop Successful Bespoke Software

Posted by PriyankPanchal on March 21st, 2015

Custom-built software can certainly help your organization streamline its processes, expand in terms of scale and size, and ultimately improve the bottom line. But how do you ensure that your bespoke software is developed successfully, with minimal glitches along the way? The key is to find the right custom software development company to work with. The wrong developer can be the biggest roadblock in your project—in fact, choosing the wrong company can cause you not only to lose money, but also precious time. Here are 10 things to keep in mind when choosing a bespoke software developer to ensure success:

1. Get referrals.

Talk to people in your network and let them point you to good custom software developers that they may have worked with in the past. Your goal should be to get honest feedback.

2. Check the company’s portfolio.

Ask to see their past projects to get a clear idea of what technologies they have worked on. Contact their previous clients whenever possible and ask about their experience with the firm. Were they able to deliver on time? Did they provide after-sales support?

3. As a rule, older development companies are better.

This is not always the case, but it is often the case. Older bespoke software development companies have worked on hundreds (possibly thousands) or projects before and have developed tried and tested methodologies that ensure the successful completion of their projects. New companies—because they have less experience—are probably still developing their methodologies and may not be familiar with the many challenges that surface during the development lifecycle.    

4. Discuss your requirements.

Be specific and realistic about what you want to achieve. If you have any budgetary constraints and other such concerns, tell the developer about it. Openness is key to ensuring that expectations are met.  

5. Find a firm that can handle the scope of your project.

How big is your software project? Some companies only take multi-enterprise or multi-year projects, while some specialise in smaller-scale software.

6. Focus on delivery time.

Work with a bespoke software developer with a proven track record of delivering projects on time. This should give you time not only to thoroughly test the software, but also orient and train your employees on how to maximise its features.

7. Asses the company’s communication skills.

Will they be able to give you regular updates? Will you be able to ask questions along the way, and can they answer you immediately? Make sure that the company can give you a contact person or account manager.

8. Clarify ownership.

Make sure that you end up owning the bespoke software developed for you. Otherwise, you might see it being used by your competitors. Iron out the ownership part of the contract to prevent conflict later on. Make sure that the ownership clause complies with the laws of the governing state.  

About the Author

This article is written by Priyank Panchal who is head of development at Schnell Solutions Limited.  He leads several teams of multi-skilled software developers which work with Schnell's customer around the globe on their IT transformation and modernization initiatives including bespoke software applications.  He is also responsible for various services offered by Schnell viz. Bespoke Software Development and Consulting, Web and Mobile App Development, IT Audit and Ebase Xi. Prior to working with Schnell, Priyank has worked for a large multi-national organization which specializes in Integration and Automation, and responsible for creating and delivering innovative web and service transformation projects across the globe.