Custom Software Development: Pros, Cons, and Pitfalls to Avoid

Custom software development can be a complex and expensive process, but it can also bring significant benefits to a business.

One potential issue that can arise is “scope creep,” where the client changes their requirements mid-development, leading to extra work and increased costs.

Another factor to consider is the method of development: an Agile/Scrum type of development methodology allows for incremental building, testing, and learning which creates the opportunity for the customer to make changes along the way, but it also potentially leads to “scope creep”.

Outsourcing software development can seem attractive due to lower costs, but it can also come with risks such as a lack of protection under Australian Consumer Law and the possibility of substandard or incomplete work.

In some extreme cases, it may be more economical for a customer to start the software build from scratch with a new developer rather than attempting to salvage a product with poor quality work.

Technology choices and ongoing maintenance and support are also important factors to consider in the cost of custom software development.

A good developer regardless of an in-house or outsourced vendor will ideally ensure that the customer has access to all necessary accounts and source code as well as provide clear documentation and support in case the software is handed off to someone else.

It can be worthwhile to invest in monthly maintenance and support services to ensure the ongoing success of custom software that has been developed.

Finally, it is worth noting that not all custom software development companies are willing to support software that they did not develop themselves.