Software process
Constant feedback and transparent communication get the best results for your business
1. Requirements
We work hard to understand what you and your users really need.
2. Planning
Flexible to your schedule and budget (but no promises we can't keep).
3. Development
Bespoke online software made quicker by our starting framework.
4. Testing
Multiple checks at every level to ensure an easy user experience.
5. Launch
Secure hosting, included training, and extra technical requirements.
6. Evolution
We still get most of our work from existing clients asking for more.
1. Requirements
Listening first
Your bespoke software starts with communication. We work hard to understand your business and your users so we can suggest the best solution. Secure your project with a deposit.
Proposal
Once we understand what you need, we'll suggest a solution with cost and time. We can also work with you to work out a staged approach or payment terms.
Your team
Your dedicated account manager is backed up by an internal project manager and at least two in-house developers. So there will always be someone who can help, and we're local.
Written requirements
More detailed specifications to give you a guarantee of what you'll get from us, and allow us to get into the detail of what you need.
2. Planning
Keeping you involved
We just don't disappear for a few weeks and come back with a finished solution. You'll be involved at every step.
Visual ideas
We understand that a dry list of 'to do' items can be hard to review. Where possible, we demonstrate our thinking with wireframes, design concepts, or examples from other clients.
Internal planning
Your project isn't just handed to a developer as a list. We manage our work on a weekly basis, review before each task, and check in with you to make sure we're on the same page.
Using our experience
Every feature or challenge is considered. We may have produced something similar before, or perhaps we have an idea for a simpler solution. Your software benefits from our experience.
3. Development
Get the best of both worlds
Our previous experience and existing framework means we can get started more quickly and save money, while our bespoke development gets you exactly the system you need.
Existing framework
We can quickly build momentum with our own framework. Features like user login, security and navigation can happen more quickly, and have already been tested with previous clients.
Bespoke requirements
As we're working on your bespoke requirements, we'll check in with you regularly, and if appropriate suggest ways to do things differently. We keep you involved throughout the project so there are no surprises.
4. Testing
Making it perfect
The challenge of bespoke software is making sure your brand new system not only works, but works as you expected. We work hard to test everything and involve you in the process. Pay your final instalment on completion.
Testing at every level
Our developers test each element as it's applied, and test across the system. Our project manager provides another level of testing. And because we know these things can be subjective, we ask you to test that it works in the way you expect.
Working web address
From very early in your project, we'll provide a live web address so you can see your software. You can review progress, provide feedback on particular features, and have other stakeholders review the system.
5. Launch
Staying by your side
Once your bespoke software is ready to use, we'll help you with technical requirements and training your staff.
Training
You'll get training on your system, although we find the familiar web interface means most people understand it instantly.
Hosting
We can provide hosting or source hosting in your name if you want direct control. We'll provide a secure certificate and can help with other requirements like email as needed.
Snagging issues
As real users get to grips with your system, you may find issues. We'll respond quickly to investigate problems, fix bugs for free, or find new solutions.
6. Evolution
Adapting to your future
It doesn't stop when the project goes live. In fact that's where most of our work usually starts, because we still get most of our income from existing clients.
Constant evolution
As bespoke developers, we work on unique projects across a huge range of industries. That gives us more ideas on how you can improve your system, and adapt as your business needs change.
Stay independent
Our terms allow you to change suppliers and update the code without restriction in the future. 'Open source' PHP gives you access to a huge community of developers, and our code even includes notes to make it easier. We want clients to stay with us by choice (and they do).
