Software development is a delicate and often complicated process. In the wrong hands, the process is error-prone. However, when executed meticulously, the result is a successful business with well-developed software.
But what are the most prevalent problems, and how are they avoided?
Overlooking the importance of UAT
User Acceptance Testing or UAT is integral to the successful integration of a software system implementation. While it is tempting to skip this step, without it, there’s no way of knowing if the system is working correctly.
Additionally, the benefits of UAT include:
- Uses user stories to determine if business requirements are met
- Fixes software in development, saving business money in the long-term
- Gives end users confidence, skills, and familiarity with the system before going live
For successful UAT, businesses need to confirm that:
- Proper expectations are set with test users when starting UAT
- User stories form the basis of the UAT scripts
- End-users and not model-builders run the UAT test scripts
- Testing is phased and consistent with the process to being implemented
- Daily meetings are conducted to answer questions as they arise during UAT
- There’s adequate time to re-evaluate and resolve errors before re-running tests assessing the functionality
- Catching and correcting defects in the process as they emerge is priority number one
Choosing the wrong technology
The right technology is critical to the success of software development, but it can also be expensive. Many businesses make the fatal error of buying cheaper technology to save on costs. However, if the technology isn’t fit for the purpose, then it costs you time and money.
When looking for the right technology for software development, consider:
- Avoid new technology with limited developer fluency
- Avoid cheap technology that may not last the course of the project
Nothing is perfect, but allowing an expert to choose the necessary software can save time, money and prevent any number of resultant problems along the way.
Hiring the wrong developer
The fact is that not all software developers are experts in the same things. Some work better with Google, while others are highly fluent in programming languages.
In picking a software developer, businesses must seek out someone with a skillset compatible with the purpose. Otherwise, they risk disappointment and a system that fails to meet expectations.
To prevent this from happening, look for someone conversant in the product under development. Headhunting organizations are also an asset and can help businesses find a foundational team member to keep everyone focused on developing the software system required.
Not using existing tools
Another problem many software development projects experience is a failure to utilize existing material fully. Instead, they build new code from scratch, and while that’s doable, it’s not always necessary.
Software development profitability is proportionate to its efficiency. That means knowing where and when to value existing software. To prevent unnecessary work, ensure teams are aware of extant code logic and integrate it into the developing software.
Premature scaling
There are various ways to experience premature scaling. These include:
- Acquiring customers too fast and before a business is ready
- Spending disproportionate amounts of money in anticipation of excess customers
Neither is what a developing software development business needs. The best way to prevent scope creep like this is through thorough market research. By combining that research with data analysis, companies get a better sense of when to expand and plan accordingly.
Final thoughts
There are various reasons software development projects fail. Given time, the right technology, and a clear sense of where the developing system is going, alleviates these problems. Knowing when to expand and who to head up software development and a healthy reliance on UAT will ensure your business avoids the most common pitfalls.
