Custom software or bespoke software is a part of the everyday life of a customer. Whether it is a small coffee shop or a corporation, businesses are turning to online portals. Numerous platforms and add-ons help businesses’ optimize offerings and create a more individualized customer experience.
Bespoke software can recognize the patterns in user behaviour and display the relevant and timely product to the consumer. This alignment often leads to an increase in customer loyalty, which is why companies opt for a personalized approach.
Nowadays, a shift from brick-and-mortar to the digital world, having a distinct method of approaching customers is a sure way to ensure a business presence online. Still, the customer journey should flow seamlessly; the more comprehensive the experience is, the higher the success. Hence, the importance of efficiency and effectiveness within the organization should not be overlooked.
Last few years, we have seen an expansion in automation software, which brings us to speed up the processes with custom-developed solutions. Building tailor-made software is similar to the renovation of a storefront on the corner of the busy street. Choosing the right software development company can immensely contribute to perfecting a business’s software ideas.
The dilemma of committing to developing such software comes from the simple question: Is the custom software necessary for my business? The answer is equally simple: It depends on the needs and goals of the specific organization.
5 Clues That Hint Your Business Might Need Custom Software Development
Before throwing the ideas into the Recycle Bin, some factors can help businesses decide whether the digital change is necessary. Each organization has its way of operating, however small the characteristic is, it can greatly influence the overall performance. Taking a time to determine the most significant aspects of the business can contribute to developing personalized software in the future. For example:
- the importance of the customer journey, and their current satisfaction
- significance of delivering additional value
- systemizing the data and tasks to maximize effectiveness
Another way to establish the current needs for personalized software is hidden in routine tasks. The most apparent clues can be found in the time employees spend on such duties.
More Manual Processes-Less Efficiency
Making as few steps as possible through the daily tasks defines the efficiency of the organization. Frequently, companies use a small army of apps to get the job done seamlessly. However, the moment the organization turns to an employee for certain manual tasks, it is a clear sign that the system needs improvement. A typical example is inserting data into an endless Spreadsheet.
Not only does it take time away from an employee that has a more important assignment, but it decreases efficiency. Productivity is the number one reason why companies decide on custom-made software.
Daily Challenges with Recurring Problems
Managing clients information and contacts are especially challenging for small businesses and startups. Often their workforce consists of five employees, which means they do most of the work themselves. These mundane tasks are automated with custom software to avoid repetitiveness. In the same manner, issues that need constant alteration show that the current system is not helpful for the business.
Customers can Tell the Tale
Customers are the first to let the business know it needs custom software. They are an indispensable part of any successful company. Businesses with a higher number of customers have an advantage in the market. Their satisfaction is what keeps them loyal to the brand.
Consumers often offer their feedback, queries, and experiences for free. If the satisfaction rate is low, it is a distinct clue that the business needs to step up its services. Tailor-made software development can have a great impact on customer satisfaction and improve the brand’s relationship with them.
Keeping Up with Technology Driven Competition
Fast-pacing technology is working its way to every influential business in the world. Brands are implementing software solutions continuously. These are not just about the growth, but a unique experience for the consumers. For example, YouTube, a platform that can suggest relevant and timely content. Their tailor-made software created a loop that is keeping the viewers engaged for hours. Custom software offers branded and unique solutions to help businesses thrive amidst the competition.
Business Supports the Current Software, or the Other Way Around?
Many organizations operate efficiently with commercial software. The needs of the company are perfectly aligned with the features of the program. However, if the business is constantly shifting numerous off-the-shelf programs, the method is never going to satisfy the requirements of the company. In such circumstances, it might be a sign to implement tailor-made software that will support the business and not the other way around.
Five Advantages of Custom Software
Personalized Approach
The key benefit of custom software is that it is tailor-made according to the specific business needs. A personalized approach can make a solid foundation for future business growth. Not only does it enhance the way organization performs tasks within the company, but it also reflects the authenticity among many market competitors. A bespoke software solution is built according to the specific business inputs. Communicating clearly with the software development team about particular needs can decrease the time spent developing. In fact, during the process of building tailor-made software, businesses can discover new opportunities to optimize the processes within the company.
Entire Process Overview
Throughout the complete life cycle of the software, the client has constant communication with the development team. Each stage of development is supported by mutual information. Hence making any further changes or features during the entire process gives the client a higher control.
Readily Accessible Support and Maintenance
Generic software alteration and maintenance require contacting the developer. Custom software users get support quickly available and defined within the contract with outsourcing partners.
Versatility and Scalability Options
Apart from total ownership of the custom software, there is flexibility in using a program developed according to specific needs. They are developed around modules, which allows greater flexibility and scalability. In other words, technology can expand in the future alongside flourishing business. Because it is built based on modules, combining new features is an easier task than adding a new software solution from a distinct vendor. The maintenance and future modifications are usually specified within a contract with an outsourcing or nearshoring company.
No Extra Expenses
Businesses around the world open for the sole reason – to grow. Hence, the custom software can accommodate a new requirement, and it is at a fraction of the cost.
Additionally, custom-made software, because it is built according to the client’s needs, is compatible with the current software system. This eliminates additional costs which would exist with readymade software.
How to Maximize the Potential of Custom Software
The choice of software should be similar to hiring a new employee. Going over some specific requirements and questions can help access the dilemma.
- Which skills (features) does the custom-made software equip?
- Will the software solution meet the team’s requirements?
- Is it a good investment for the business?
In simple terms, before embarking on a journey, make sure that the custom software complies with the organization’s needs. Therefore, a few facts would be beneficial to consider before contacting a selected software development partner.
Specify the Goal and the Desirable Result at the Beginning of the Process
Specifying the goal for the custom-made software eliminates all inconveniences in the future. For example, the aim can be a better strategic decision using business intelligence. This goal will later clearly communicate the requirements to the software development team.
Meet with Relevant Participants within the Company
The information about the requirements should not come solely from the leadership. Employees that use the software in question in their daily tasks might provide more valuable information. Including here communication and feedback from the customers as users of the company services.
Outline the Requirements and Features
Fundamental information is what the software is required to perform. However, thinking outside the box in the early-stage leaves room for future improvement. Categorizing the requirement based on an absolute must and nice to have will offer valuable information for the development team.
Today, there is not much space left to influence the market with an off-the-shelf product. The reason being that the competitors use the same one. On top of that, they are thoroughly aware of the advantages and disadvantages. Hence, why do businesses acquire custom software development services? Because the best software is the one that meets their specific business expectation and increases success.
