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Sooner or later, we’re all faced with a choice: doing things the easy way or doing things the right way. You might be thinking, well that’s a dramatic way to start a blog post about custom programming. Fair enough. But the truth is, choosing between an off-the-shelf data collection solution or hiring someone to custom program your own can have dramatic consequences for your business. While off-the-shelf solutions are tempting with their low up-front costs and apparent ease-of-use, it is unlikely that they will be able to meet every unique need your business has, and there’s no guarantee that they will be compatible with other applications you use.
Custom software, while requiring more work up front, can be built to fit your exact needs, providing benefits like increased productivity, competitive advantage, and other long-term gains. That said, there are a lot of factors you must consider before saying so long to the easy way and plunging headfirst into the challenge of building your own applications. Read on to learn more about the right way—some of the dos and don’ts of custom programming initiatives.
DON’T: Think you have to start entirely from scratch
You can build your new program using existing systems and software that is already in place. This could include customizing legacy code, open source applications, and third party commercial libraries.
DO: Examine your current workflows
Make sure to assess your current processes before undertaking any custom programming initiatives to. This can also be a great opportunity to find and make improvements in other areas of your organization as well.
DON’T: Start without a strategy
Starting without a strategy in place dooms new initiatives. Establishing a strategy sets expectations and allows you to develop reasonable time estimates for completion of the project.
DO: Identify must-have features
By starting with just your absolutely necessary requirements, you can ensure that you do not waste time and lose sight of your goals by trying to do too much. You can then add nice-to-have features if you have the adequate time and resources.
DON’T: Let scope creep happen
As you start adding nice-to-have features, it can be easy to fall into the trap of scope or feature creep. Keep your strategy in mind and define roles to keep everyone on track.
DO: Involve everyone who will be using the software
Make sure to involve and listen to anyone who will be using the application you are developing. You don’t want to complete the project and find out that while IT is comfortable using it, your business users hate it.
DON’T: Expect that it will happen overnight
Custom programming takes time. It is worth it to put in the effort up front for the long-term payoff.
DO: Choose the right developer
This is a decision that should not be based purely on cost. It is more important to choose someone who understands your business needs and can deliver the best solution for your business. The SMS Group can help you create purpose-built solutions tailored to your business requirements. Contact us to learn more.
