Bespoke software applications fit for purpose

Software development is the process of computer programming, documenting, testing and bug fixing involved in creating and maintaining applications in a software product.

A software application can be for the web, mobile or operational within a business such as a CRM, and are often developed to solve a problem.

With a clear understanding of your goals and challenges, Serenity Digital can work with you to develop bespoke software solutions to suit your needs.

Robust development

As the internet and technology has rocketed over the years, businesses have developed more complex needs and competition is fierce.

Software development has grown exponentially to satisfy these needs, however, often large projects to manage, organisations can find it difficult to ensure they have a robust and future-proof solution for their investment.

What we’re seeing

A software development project is often one of the largest projects an organisation can undertake and therefore it’s essential to be aware of the common pitfalls and how best to avoid them.

Underestimating project complexity

As a development project unfolds, there can be unexpected technical challenges which need time and the right expertise to iron out.

It is common for some businesses who have not undertaken a software project before to underestimate what can be involved in launching a new product, leading to delays and loss of money.

Not budgeting for proper developer expertise

This is where investing in the right team becomes essential. Once you have a clear idea of the problem you’re trying to solve, ensure you choose developers who understand your business needs and are clear on the investment you’ll need.

Cutting corners can end up costing more money in the long run. If you invest in quality people, you’re halfway to developing a solution to increase revenue and save your business money.

Developing something too rigid

It is important to develop a solution that can grow with you and your business and changes with the demands of your users and customers. Organisations who are fenced in by off the shelf software, can find it’s less cost effective in the long run.

Failure to account for certain tasks

We have seen it many times where businesses have not accounted for certain tasks such as testing, which causes delays. Often getting a product to market quickly can be the difference between success and failure, so it’s important to have a solid production schedule with a clear understanding of each step.

Expecting a development team to start work immediately

Something many businesses don’t always account for is that development projects always require an initial research phase. A team of developers must know which design decisions have been made on similar projects and why, as well as what techniques can be used to speed up product release.

The “discovery” phase is paramount to the success of any project as it helps to avoid mistakes and allows a developer to set realistic expectations with the client.

A flexible and reliable approach

Efficient development tools, great expertise and bespoke solutions to suit your requirements will deliver a successful return on investment.

Our 4 tips below will get any campaign well on its way to success:

Be realistic with your development schedule

Approach the project in plenty of time and if you’re considering external developers, ask them what a realistic time-frame would be, factoring in average delays to satisfy any new requirements along the way. Whilst it’s not an exact science, it will allow you to map a schedule and set a more realistic launch date.

Spend your time and energy where it matters

By considering a custom-made solution from the start, you can save a lot of time and money with something that will evolve with you, rather than chasing your tail and having to constantly factor in development.

Review progress

Software development projects can often be quite lengthy, so after the initial planning stage, revisit the project and have ongoing communication with your team.

Are you on track? What else needs to be done? Who is responsible for what?

Poor communication can unhinge the best planned projects, so keep dialogue open and regular.

NEVER lose sight of the problem you’re trying to solve

Always have the original problem you’re trying to solve in mind. It sounds simple, but if you keep this at the forefront of any project this will help keep everyone on track.

Please get in touch to discuss how our expert team can help with your next project. We’d love to learn more about your challenges and find ways in which we can assist you in moving forward.

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