Custom software development solution

When an organisation has a specific software need that can’t be addressed with off-the-shelf software, it commissions developers to create custom software.
• Custom software development is the creation of unique technology solutions.
• Custom solutions are not necessarily more expensive than out-of-the-box software options.
• Custom software development requires a detailed plan.
Custom software development is the designing of software applications for a specific user or group of users within an organization. Such software is designed to specifically address these users’ needs better than more traditional and widespread off-the-shelf software can. Custom software is typically created just for these specific users by a third-party or in-house group of developers and is not packaged for resale.

Custom software vs. off-the-shelf software
Off-the-shelf software consists of a packaged software application available to a large audience with varying, albeit fundamentally similar, needs. For example, Microsoft Word is designed for the mass public as a solution to the diverse needs of its users. However, it does not cater to a specific group or need as custom software would.

Customised software development entails the commissioning, development and release of a software product tailored to a single entity. For example, an application created for a specific organisation would be used only by that company and the department for which it was designed. The software is designed with the company’s infrastructure, branding and implementation needs in mind, so it works only for that organisation.