Why consider custom development?

Every business has systems in place that work for it by using the basic tools at hand such as Word, Excel, Access and even paper-based systems to mention just a few, but then as the business grows, these tools become restrictive as they have limited functions to fulfill the full spectrum of business needs.

A point is then reached where the limits of the system must be addressed. This is usually done by adding more staff – a complicated and expensive solution. Also, the basic tools at hand usually only allow one person at a time to work on a particular document, which creates productivity issues; another problem is the fact that people can overwrite each other’s work.

A business may now start looking for an off-the-shelf system that will fit its requirements, and finds a world full of options. However, small- to medium-sized businesses have unique ways of functioning, which either lead to it having to acquire a large, expensive system, of which the business may only utilize a small percentage of what is offered by the system, or the business may need to scale down on some functions in order to be able to utilize a less costly system with less functionality. Both can lead to frustration. Another option would be for the business to consider a customized system, which would be developed specifically for it with its unique needs in mind.

It is at this point that MACC will be able to assist, we have been providing solutions to the industry since 1996 and have collective knowledge of over 45 years, which includes business analysis, networks, servers and training.

We specialize in rapid custom development at an affordable price, utilizing the collective skills and experience to bring solutions to the table. Working within the SDLC (System Development Life Cycle) process, our recent projects have been finalized within two to six months, depending on the complexity, thus cutting down development costs substantially.

Here are some of the advantages of custom software development:

1. Tailor-made

Custom software is created by utilizing the latest up-to-date technology. The systems are developed exclusively to satisfy the client’s unique business requirements. Interface, features, and functionality can be molded and improved during the development of the software with the customer’s direct input, which is the most significant benefit of custom software development. A fully-functional customized system can be developed within a tight time-frame, on average two to three months.

2. Minimal cost

Custom development is usually more affordable than the client anticipates. However, sometimes the initial costs associated with developing custom applications for a business may be higher than purchasing a ready-made product, depending on the number of functions needed. However, the long-term benefits of investing in customized business applications are far more valuable than purchasing a ready-made product. The additional costs incurred when paying for licences for off-the-shelf products, should also be kept in mind.

3. Maintenance

With custom software development, the software is maintained for as long as the client requires it to be. With off-the-shelf software, the client’s business is at the mercy of the software developer from whom the software was purchased, regarding new features and changes.

4. Integration

Custom software is a great solution for program integration. Businesses in need of numerous software programs can enjoy the benefits of operating on one custom software application designed to integrate multiple processes. Custom software in this respect helps the client to accomplish more of what he or she needs.

5. Support

A major benefit with custom business applications is an efficient and reliable technical support plan. The client has full access to the technical support team that was involved in the development process of the application, so all encountered problems are resolved in a fast and efficient manner.

So how does the development process work?

Below is an image which presents the process of a SDLC (System Development Life Cycle). (For a more detailed explanation, please click on the image).