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Custom software development refers to the design of a software application for the purpose of a specific group of users within a company. This software is designed in a manner that directly addresses the users’ needs as opposed to the generic way they are addressed by off-the shelf and traditional software. Such software is developed by a software development company for a specific entity or organization. It can also be developed by an in-house group of software developers.

How is Custom Software Different From Off-the Shelf Software?

An off-the shelf software comprises of a packaged software application that is available to the general public whose needs are generally similar. For example, word processors allow all users to create documents, but they do not provide for the distinct need of any one single user.

On the other hand, custom software development Miami involves the commissioning, development, and release of a software application that is designed specifically for a single entity. The software development company designs the software with the company’s implementation needs, branding, and infrastructure under considerations. This implies that the software can be used only by that organization.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Custom Software Development

Advantages of Custom Software Development

One benefit of using custom software is that it provides the organization with features that off-the-she software do not have. It also capable of addressing an organization’s unique need. As such, the software is able to assist the employees in their specific tasks; hence, increasing their level of productivity. In this regard, with the software increasing the organization’s level of productivity and efficiency, as well as addressing an internal need, the costs incurred in the custom software’s development is offset.

Disadvantages of Custom Software Development

Unlike off the-shelf applications that can be purchased with a few tens or hundreds of dollars, custom software requires considerable more resources for it s design. As such, it inherently comes with a high level of risks and costs. When a customer commissions a software Development Company develop custom software for them, then they have to cover all of the costs that are involved in the software development process. In particular, the costs can reach the 5-digit range.  Unlike an off-the shelf software that is distributed among many users, the custom software is developed for only one company. As such, the former is able to afford a lower price point, which the latter cannot.

The risk that comes with the development of custom software by a software development company is that the client or the organization must have an in-depth knowledge and understanding of their company’s needs and how they expect the custom software to address these needs. It is not uncommon for new needs to be identified during the development process, which can result in additional costs.  It will also lead to the need for more development time and effort. The risk of frequently changing the requirements can also lead to scope creep or a loss of project scope. In addition, it can lead to a software application that is different from and that does not meet the initially defined needs.

How to Find Good Custom Software Development Services

Selecting a company that provides custom software development Miami or web development Miami to develop a software application for your organization is no easy task. As such, it is recommended that small and lager organizations search for local software development companies to bid on the work. The organization should then choose the software development company that offers the best level of services and price.

The software development companies typically meet with the client in order to assess the client’s needs and to determine the total amount of work that is needed for the creation of the software. After this, the providers of web development Miami and custom software development Miamiplace a bid to identify the costs and the amount of development time that is needed for the completion of the custom software development project. However, these bids may be adjusted as some projects may need more time, in turn incurring higher costs. An organization should never base their selection on the cost, but should be based on which software development company is most flexible and is willing to work with the client.

Questions to Ask When Selecting a Provider of Custom Software Development Miami

The following are some of the questions you should consider when choosing a custom software development company.

How big is the project?

Determine the size of your project. Not all providers of custom software development Miami can take on software development projects of any size. Some companies specialize only in a specific kind of project, such as enterprise systems integration or mobile media applications. On the other hand, some companies work only on large projects that are for multiple enterprises and that run for multiple years.

What Legacy Technologies or Systems are Involved?

If your project requires expertise and knowledge on older technologies or on the software systems that already exist in your organization, then you should be aware that not all companies may have the necessary expertise, and those that do have the expertise tend to charge highly for their services.

When Do you Need the Project to be Completed?

You have to determine how soon you need the projector be completed — whether you need it urgently for a trade show or another upcoming event, or if you can allow time for its development. Keep in mind that there are limits to the speed by which the software can be developed, tested, and delivered. In this regard, if you have an urgent deadline for the project, then you may want to consider trading off some features in the meantime.

You should be wary of software development companies that promise everything, as a good  custom software development company will help you make wise trade-offs to meet your deadline.

source: http://www.lagoonmedia.com