Frequently asked questions

Is custom software more complex than standard off-the-shelf software?

It depends. Off-the-shelf software like a simple WordPress site can start that way. But as soon as you add plugins and extras, it can become a tangled web. Suddenly, you're dealing with settings hidden in the most unintuitive places. It's like having a simple tool that turns into a Swiss Army knife with too many attachments.

On the flip side, custom software is like having a tool designed specifically for your needs. Yes, it might seem more complex at first glance because it's unfamiliar. But here's the catch – it's built to tackle your specific problem directly. Instead of juggling a bunch of plugins you hope will tackle the actual concern, custom software goes straight to the heart and is more intuitive for the tasks it's solving.

Isn't custom software more expensive than off-the-shelf solutions?

It's like asking if buying a suit off the rack or getting one tailor-made is cheaper. Off-the-shelf software seems more wallet-friendly, and it can be, especially if your needs are standard. But here's where it gets interesting.

Think about adding plugins to your off-the-shelf software. Each plugin is like an extra patch on that off-the-rack suit. They add up, not just in cost but in complexity, too. Additionally, you'll need someone to manage these customizations. That's an additional expense, and these costs can snowball quickly.

Now, compare that to custom software. The initial price tag might be higher, but it's like getting that tailor-made suit. It fits you perfectly from the start; no extra patches. It tackles your specific problem head-on.

So, while you might pay more upfront, you're avoiding many hidden add-on costs down the line. Plus, you get precisely what you need without the fuss of stripping away unneeded features or hoping that a patchwork of plugins will solve your problem.

Am I at risk of vendor lock-in with custom software developers?

Vendor lock-in is a common concern with custom software, but let me put your mind at ease regarding our approach. We designed our platform to be open and flexible. It isn't bound to a single environment – you can run it locally or in the cloud, be it Amazon, Google, or any other primary provider. This versatility is a big plus compared to web-only providers, who might restrict you to their platform without direct access.

We believe in transparency and will communicate any limitations during our discovery meeting. The goal is to avoid any surprises down the line. Generally speaking, we don't operate with a vendor lock-in model. We want you to stay with us because you love the service and the product, not because you're stuck with it. So, you can rest assured that with our software, you're getting a solution that's as open and extendable.

What sort of support or maintenance can I count on?

Our job is still ongoing after we've developed and launched your software. We stand by our work and provide ongoing support. But, just like any technology, bugs can pop up, and updates are a part of life – think of how often your phone needs an update!

We handle support and bug fixes together. If an issue arises or you have questions, we're on it. The time and effort required to tackle these problems – some fixes are quick, others might need more elbow grease.

Now, about maintenance. You are part of an upgrade cycle, which is standard in tech. Whether it's Windows, Microsoft Server, Filemaker, iPhone, or any other solution, patches and updates are inevitable. These upgrades are crucial; they keep your software running smoothly and securely, ensuring it stays in line with the latest tech advancements and security standards. It's all about moving your product forward and keeping it top-notch.

Is custom software as reliable as established products tested in the market?

The reliability of custom software versus market-tested products boils down to trust. We've successfully launched numerous solutions that operate seamlessly, a testament to our commitment to quality and reliability.

It's important to note that our custom solutions often integrate with well-established products, particularly in areas where they complement each other perfectly. For instance, we frequently leverage Amazon's suite of products to enhance our offerings. This synergy between custom and established solutions ensures you get the best of both worlds.

Regarding parts of your project that may extend beyond pure technology, we've got you covered there too. We have expertise in areas like marketing and building sales funnels. So, whether it's the tech-heavy side or the broader business strategy elements, you can count on us to deliver a comprehensive, reliable solution that meets your unique needs.

What if there isn't a good fit?

It's a great question and a very important one. The truth is, we might not always be the right fit, and that's completely OK. Fit is crucial for us, and we're very upfront about it. We know we're not the perfect match for every business out there, and we're all about playing to our strengths, primarily technology.

If, during our discussions, we find that we are not a good fit for what you need, we will point you in the right direction to one of our trusted vendors or local designers. If your primary focus is branding or design, many regional experts specialize in that.

While we offer design and marketing, these are auxiliary services for a larger project. Our core lies in creating functional, technology-driven solutions with measurable results. And yes, we sometimes bring in external resources to boost design capabilities. Still, we generally steer clear of purely design or marketing-focused projects. Our goal is to build something that looks good, works exceptionally well, and delivers tangible value to your business.