Bespoke software development helps your business achieve its goals. It can increase efficiency, streamline processes and give your clients new ways to engage with your company. It’s also a large investment, making it essential to stop challenges from interfering. Since modern tools and techniques mean the software is rarely the problem, focus on the organisational structure behind the project to reduce the risk involved.

1. Avoid a bus count of one

Most challenging projects start with “I have a guy”. While having a principle point of contact is important, more than one person should know what’s going on with your software development. After all, if the software is successful, it will become critical to your business. Leaving vital knowledge in the hands of one person is a recipe for disaster for obvious reasons, making widespread knowledge essential.

2. Communicate openly

At the risk of sounding cliché, open communication is key for preventing challenges. From communicating internally when recognising the need for the project, to communicating your goals to your software company, an open dialogue is essential. To facilitate this, assign the role of principle point of contact to one person within your organisation. Likewise, ask your software product development company to filter all updates and requests through one person on their end.

3. Embrace agile project delivery

Agile project delivery is ideal for mitigating risks. Since development, testing and adjustments take place in short increments, it allows for a faster response to concerns or client feedback. This flexible approach is vital, as most challenges occur due to communicating the company’s goals. While a thorough briefing at the start of the project reduces this risk, it’s inevitable that new understandings of the software’s requirements will be gained as progress is made.

4. Plan for the future

Challenges aren’t confined to the software development process. They can rear their head long after you consider the project finished. With staff change over, or new system implementation, knowledge of how to use the software may be lost or confused in your organisation. Avoid this challenge by ensuring there’s a well understood knowledge transfer system. Additionally, work with a company that offers long-term support, so they can help you overcome any hurdle.

5. Choose a development partner wisely

The software product development company you work with has a huge impact on your results. Avoid challenges by choosing a partner who takes the time to understand not just your project goals, but your organisation. Without a thorough understanding of your business how can they develop a solution that addresses your business challenges? Developing in isolation is one of the largest causes of risks with custom business software.

Ready to find out more about software development services?

For more information on bespoke software development, get in touch with ActionPoint today. Our business analysts are on hand to discuss exactly how your business can benefit.