November 17, 2017 by Snupit
Integrating new software into the way your company functions can streamline all of the outdated, clunky paperwork systems you have right now. Using updated software can also present your company to potential clients as an up to date, contemporary company. The software can help to track your incoming and outgoing spend, while it minimises costs, adds accountability to the right staff and bridges gaps of communication between staff and clients. Finding a vendor or a developer that can supply you with a quality system may be difficult, and these tips will help you to distinguish great software from poor software.
1. Aftermarket service matters
Ask a developer how much aftermarket service they offer on their products. Even if they build you a state of the art and easy to use a system that meets all of your needs, you only want to engage the services of a company within this industry if they offer complete before, during and aftermarket support. Even if their software is easy to understand, bugs do occur in software, and you want to know that they will assist you in fixing any errors. Furthermore, do they offer any training to you and your staff on how to operate their software? If not, do they offer any training materials, like videos or handbooks? Only do business with someone who is always happy to take your call and accommodates your questions as if they are welcome.
2. Custom vs Template
While the debate between custom built software versus template based software rages on, it is important to note that custom built software that is created from hard code is usually designed to conform to your unique needs. That means your developer will analyse your system and adapt their software to integrate into your existing systems, seamlessly. The template based software may have bugs, will be more difficult to integrate into the systems you already have, and also have certain security risks when plug-ins are used.
3. Know your host
If you are purchasing a website and a domain, know your host. Handing it all over to the web design/ development company is not really going to be good enough. Make sure you check who they will be hosting your domain with and ensure that it is a company you are happy with. Shop around and compare prices. Does the service provider offer free email addresses? Do they offer good service? How often are they offline? Doing your homework is an essential part of handing your domain over to the host.
If you are looking for a team to create some software for your company, also remember that there are two types of software. One works as an internal system, streamlining your internal processes and making each staff member accountable for their duties. The other type of software is a way for your company to interact with its clients, potential clients, and the general public. Both are wonderful ways of thickening your revenue stream and cutting back running expenses. To find a great software developer, have a look at our online directory on Snupit.