When considering bespoke software, it is worth determining the best time in your business’ life cycle to undertake the development and investment needed. Even if it’s the right time to update your software, some companies have concerns around a bespoke solution. 

We’ve collated four of the most common worries we’ve encountered over our 18 years of servicing clients with bespoke software. We’ve also suggestions solutions which will hopefully help to put those concerns to bed, once and for all.

Big Worry #1: The Cost

As with any large business decision – especially in times of uncertainty – the cost of internal projects is a huge consideration. With bespoke software, some businesses struggle to see beyond the initial price tag and investment, instead leaning in favour of a generic off-the-shelf solution to save on outgoings. 

In reality however, these ‘ready-made’ software packages tend to increase in cost. Over their lifetime, they often require additional subscriptions as your team expands, or as individual responsibilities change, or your needs and the functionality that supports those needs changes. The resulting cost – a swollen recurring annual or monthly fee – eventually mounts up to overtake the price of a bespoke product (and without the benefits and flexibility which the latter brings).

Before you make the decision between a designed-to-fit piece of bespoke software, or an off-the-shelf solution, consider the long term picture and the overall value of the product you’re buying. Carefully consider what you need, what you’re prepared to compromise on (if choosing off-the-shelf) and whether what you’re paying is worth it. 

Big Worry #2: The Future

When considering off-the-shelf software, many business owners feel reassured by the fact that they receive updates automatically over time. Some consider bespoke software more of a risk, concerned that the product will eventually outrun its course and no longer be as up to date as it needs to be.

Of course, that couldn’t be further from the truth! As time goes on and new generic software solutions are developed, older versions are retired, with support functions gradually phased out. We’ve seen this happen with Windows XP recently – an OS that many people still use, even after newer versions have become available.

To counter this from happening with their bespoke software, a business simply needs to work with their software developers to create a scalable solution which grows alongside the needs of the business. In addition, when a new challenge comes along, businesses can be assured that developers can help to evolve the software, without needing to await a feature that is built to appeal to mass markets – as is the case with many generic solutions.

Big Worry #3: The Support

The biggest perceived risk of investing in bespoke software is the assumed lack of support – a reasonable worry to have. After all, logic dictates that a mass-marketed piece of software will have more experts offering support, compared to something handcrafted by a small team of individuals.

Furthermore, business owners may have concerns about a lack of back-up when something doesn’t work quite as it should, or if further development is necessary. Thankfully, this concern is more often than not completely unfounded.

Our team are experts in the software they build – but they also ensure that clients become experts too. This way, businesses are empowered to take control of their software from within the organisation. We also have full support on hand to ensure that at every stage of the software’s life, clients feel fully supported and able to cope with any challenges they might be facing.

Big Worry #4: The Relationship

Finally, many businesses worry about the ongoing commitment of their development company and the effect that will have on their software. After all, if they intend to use this software for the foreseeable future it’s preferable that the developers are still around to support the software’s evolution.

For Kaleida, the reassurance we give to our clients comes from our 19 years (and counting) of success, alongside our strength in multiple markets, strong track record and decades of combined experience in the field. We have ongoing relationships with our clients and for some companies, have developed multiple bespoke systems for them over the years. We’ve worked hard to position Kaleida as a stalwart of the industry, allowing our clients to be confident in the ongoing success of their software.

If you’ve been considering a move or upgrade to your software, it is worth taking time and asking the right questions. If you have concerns about making a change and would like some input, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. We’re always happy to offer obligation-free guidance and reassure businesses before they make any decision.

Kaleida design and create bespoke software for customers in a range of industries. Find out more about our services or get in touch to discuss how we can help your business.