If you’re interested in investing in some bespoke software for your business’ website, you may wish to know how the development process works.
In essence there are three steps (hough each of these can be divided into more), which lead from your initial consultation to the launching and evolution of your very own software. This software can take many forms – perhaps you wish to have a quick check-in feature implemented on your recruitment pages, or tiered user levels that dictate access to internal management – but all are tailored to your needs.
Essentials of Software Design – Feedback and Communication
To begin understanding the process, one must first recognize the essentials of using software designers to produce your very own bespoke product. These are constant feedback and constructive communication.
It is common knowledge that communication in the workplace is essential to meeting targets, retaining good working relationships and improving understanding between colleagues and departments. It is also key when outsourcing projects such as software development, as you need to guarantee you get the exact product that you require.
During this communication, you must give feedback. If something is not quite right with the software, then you must say – just as the designers will provide feedback on the requirements you are asking for.
This constant back and forth between yourself and your software developer is absolutely essential to building a positive partnership that works together for a quality end result.
1. Requirements and Planning
Now that you understand the essentials, it is time to walk through the development process itself. First up, it is the Requirements and Planning stage.
Software developers such as Bluelinemedia.co.uk work tirelessly to understand exactly what it is that you need. This is done through consultations, proposals and written requirements so that the developer knows what you require, and you know what you will receive.
These proposals are then turned into plans and concepts that are presented to you and tinkered with to produce a starting point.
2. Development and Testing
After the plans have been settled on, the developer will begin to produce the software using a combination of pre-existing frameworks and bespoke developments, discussing with you any changes along the way.
In a similar way to how you may have soft-launched your own business or website, the software will be tested at every stage before being finalized.
3. Launch and Evolution
When your bespoke software is ready, the developer will train you on the new system and support you every step of the way. As with any aspect of business, it is not uncommon for the occasional bump in the road to appear when launching new software, so any reliable developer will be on stand-by to resolve issues and fix bugs.
Finally, this software will not be set in stone. Your business is sure to change, as are your goals, and your bespoke software should change to suit that evolution. As you can see, the process is truly rather simple. Finding an experienced and professional bespoke software developer is therefore a highly recommended step for any business looking to reach the next level.
