Understanding Bespoke Development
Bespoke software refers to a custom built piece system that has been designed to a specific set of requirements - usually for a single organisation. Because it is created from scratch, the workflows, features & functionality, user interface and aesthetics can all be defined by the company in question and thus, the end product will be fully aligned with the organisation's required outcomes. This is in contrast to off-the-shelf software which is pre-built with generic features and functionality that have been selected to appeal to a much larger audience.
Benefits of Bespoke Software
Bespoke software has many advantages for businesses of all shapes and sizes - some more obvious than others. Below are some of key reasons people choose to go bespoke.
Built to Specific Requirements
As we have covered above, custom software is built to match a specific set of requirements that are determined by the buyer and so, every feature is designed to align with their objectives. The end result is a software solution that is fit for purpose, efficient and aligned to that specific company's business goals.
Long Term Value
Bespoke solutions can grow alongside a business. Updates and enhancements can be made at the discretion of the owner as opposed to relying on a third party vendor, meaning the software can be changed or added to, to ensure it continues to provide value for years to come.
Integration
Because it's built from scratch, custom built software can be designed to integrate with existing systems - bespoke or otherwise.
Competitive Advantage
With bespoke software, an organisation can choose unique features and functionality to attract current and prospective clients. By offering something no else does, the company has a unique selling point.
Replication of Workflows & Processes
Custom built software can replicate existing manual or paper based processes and workflows meaning there is no requirement to adapt or change them for the software to work. In addition, using existing processes can ensure employees are onboarded and comfortable with the software quicker.
Key Services Offered
Defining the services of a bespoke software development company can be difficult as they vary widely. Some specialise in custom websites, others focus on management software or mobile apps and many provide a combination of these solutions. The exact services depend on the company’s expertise and experience. Here, we will explore some of the most common services offered by bespoke software development companies.
Custom Website Development
First impressions count and a business's website is often the first point of interaction with prospective clients. If they lack the ability to draw customers in, keep them engaged and provide a positive user experience this can be extremely problematic and is often seen with off-the-shelf template websites. Custom websites allow businesses to add useful features such as quote builders, stock checkers linked directly to their supplier's portal and integration with other existing systems such as Customer Relationship Management, Work Force Management and Analytics tools.
Mobile Application Development
With mobile usage constantly on the rise, many businesses are investing in custom mobile apps to improve customer engagement and streamline their internal processes. For instance, field service companies can use bespoke mobile apps to provide real time job updates, whilst retailers and ecommerce organisations can boost customer retention with by providing customers the ability to receive help from anywhere via their mobile.
AI and Automation Solutions
AI driven automation is becoming increasingly important with many bespoke software development companies offering intelligent solutions to improve efficiency across businesses worldwide. Chatbots for customer service, machine learning algorithms for sales predictions and AI powered security systems for advanced threat protection are just a few examples of how businesses can utilise AI automation.
Cloud Based Software Solutions
Demand for cloud based software solutions has sky rocketed over the last few years for the flexibility, scalability and cost effectiveness they can offer businesses. Cloud solutions can help organisations securely store and access data from anywhere whilst reducing IT infrastructure costs and that goes for both bespoke and off-the-shelf cloud solutions. For example, a globally dispersed team might collaborate on a cloud based project management system or a law firm might use cloud storage for secure document sharing with clients.
Bespoke Software Integrations
Many companies use multiple different software tools for their day to day operations that don’t communicate effectively or for that matter, at all. Bespoke integrations allow different systems to work together, reducing the need for manual data entry across multiple systems and lowering the risk of errors. For example, a logistics company might need an integration between their inventory management system and third party courier services to automate shipping updates to their end clients. Similarly, healthcare providers may integrate electronic health records (EHR) with appointment scheduling software to improve patient care.
Custom Management Systems
There are a wide variety of different management systems organisations can utilise to improve operations across the business. Customer Relationship Management (CRM), Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) and Workforce Management (WFM) systems are all common place today and can add much needed structure to disjointed workplaces. Off-the-shelf solutions also have their place but can often lack critical features or be unable to accommodate more nuanced and complex workflows. A bespoke CRM, for example, could automate lead tracking in a way that aligns exactly with a company’s existing sales process, whilst a tailored ERP system can integrate finance, HR and supply chain management into a single platform.
Challenges and Considerations
Whilst bespoke software can provide businesses with many distinct advantages, there are also some drawbacks to be considered - let's take a look at some of them here.
Time to Develop
Because it's built from scratch, bespoke software takes time to design, develop and implement. This is in contrast to off-the-shelf solutions that can be deployed instantly. Custom software goes through multiple stages including discovery, design, development, testing, implementation and refinement which can take weeks, months or even years depending on the complexity of the project. Businesses that require an immediate solution may struggle with the time commitment involved in bespoke development.
For those who can be more flexible with their timescales, the end result is going to be a software solution that is wholly complementary to their business as the necessary time has been put into the project to make sure this is the case.
Potential Costs
The upfront costs of bespoke software development are often one of the main deterrents for businesses. Unlike off-the-shelf software, which usually has a fixed price and can be deployed quickly, bespoke solutions involve investment in initial research, design and coding. Developers spend time tailoring the software to meet the company's unique needs, ensuring it functions exactly as required. This level of customisation drives up the initial expenditure.
However, the long-term benefits of bespoke software often outweigh these upfront costs. Custom solutions are typically more efficient, reducing time spent on manual processes and improving overall productivity. Additionally, businesses avoid ongoing licensing fees and unnecessary feature expenses that often come with off-the-shelf products. In some cases, the software's return on investment can exceed the initial development costs tenfold.
Developer Dependency
Another potential challenge with bespoke software, particularly for complex solutions, is the reliance on a specific developer or development team. Typically, the people who built the software are the most familiar with it's architecture and functionality, making them the best choice for making updates, implementing changes or providing maintenance. However, this dependency can become problematic if those developers are no longer available.
To mitigate this risk, it is highly advisable to ensure all technical information related to the system is thoroughly documented and kept by the new software owner. This documentation should cover the software's architecture, codebase, dependencies and any custom logic. This will allow new developers to take over the project if necessary without any gaps in service.
Maintenance & Support
Whilst not a challenge per se, the fact that all maintenance and support relating to bespoke software solutions sit strictly with the purchasing company is worth highlighting. With off-the-shelf solutions, the vendor is solely responsible for all updates, including additional features and security patching which is generally paid for by it's users through monthly licensing fees. With custom software, that's not the case and all maintenance, updates and support must be arranged and paid for by the owning company.
Businesses can ensure this does not become a problem by agreeing on a maintenance schedule with a reliable development partner who can help ensure that the software remains secure and functional over time. Another option would be establishing an in-house support team although this is not practical for many small businesses.
How Can We Help
Here at Cool Code Company we have been helping businesses across the Midlands transform the way they work for over 18 years. We offer a wide variety of custom software services from bespoke management systems including CRM, WFM and ERP to API integrations to on-going development support. We understand that collaboration is a core principle of success and so, our experienced, Midlands based development team are always happy to meet clients at their own premises which allows them to gain a deep understanding of the unique working environment in which the software will be used, ultimately allowing us to provide solutions that truly add value. So, if you're a business in Northampton that requires some outside support with their software needs, we would welcome the opportunity to speak with you!
