There’s often a rather large knowledge gap between a custom software provider and their clients. For this reason most custom software developers will be well practiced in answering general queries relating to the development of your solution. Here are three tips for making the custom software development process as smooth as humanly possible.
1. It's probably possible, but it may not be cheap
A good developer will be able to make almost anything happen within your solution– “Impossible Is Nothing” would make just as good a slogan for software development as it does for Adidas. But be aware, there’s an asterisk on that slogan. Impossible is nothing* (Provided you are willing to pay for the resources it takes to do it.) A good developer, though, will help you weigh the costs and benefits of any feature to make sure you get the most value out of your custom solution.
2. Take on the expert's advice
Don’t go into the development of your solution with blinders on. Be open to suggestions from your custom software provider – they’ve got the expertise to know what may work best for you. And if they have a proven track record (as we suggest in this blogpost on choosing the right custom software partner), you can trust that they will pull from those experiences and cases to create the optimal solution.
3. Understand that you may identify some issues along the way
If you’re experiencing an issue, advise your developer of the problem, and let them go about solving it. Software developers, being the same fallible collection of flesh and bone that we all are, will make the unintentional mistake. Finding bugs is an inevitable part of the process. Rest assured that any issues will always be resolved. If you find an issue while testing, take it as an opportunity to help your developer better understand your business and the desired functionality of your software.
When all of your company’s cards are on the table, it’s highly likely that a custom software solution will represent the wisest investment in the future of your business. And while this may at first seem an unnecessary, the reality is that the process of custom software development is more accessible than ever.
Custom Software Vs. Off The Shelf
You’ve identified an area of your business that has room for improvement, whether that be in the form of an opportunity to streamline your operations, or the chance to capitalize on a new revenue stream. In order to create this improvement you’ll need a capable piece of business software. In this eBook, you’ll learn what to consider when building custom software vs. buying off the shelf.
If you are ready to discuss your specific challenges or what CSG can offer, you can contact us to learn more about how to start implementing your solution.
