Building Compliance Systems app developed by Envoy Advanced Technologies. Photo: Michelle Kroll.
In today’s world it is hard to imagine a successful business operating without the use of software. As the interface between computer systems and those that use them, software is essentially a set of instructions that inform the execution of tasks. Since its inception last century and the explosion of technological advancements thereafter, software has become a ubiquitous part of life.
Whether you’re a start-up, a mid-tier national, or part of global enterprise, you will undoubtedly depend on software. From workflow automation, resource management, communications and more, these many varied applications are the lifeblood of business.
So, if you are thinking about supporting your team with a software solution, there are generally two options. To source one off-the-shelf or to create something new. And, while ready-made programs offer a unique set of benefits, they do not address the needs of everyone. This is where custom software comes in. Like wearing a bespoke suit, custom software fits your requirements to a tee.
But before you reap the benefits, you must start with engaging the right software development team. Fortunately, we’ve outlined the qualities to consider while sourcing one, along with our pick of the best in Canberra.
What makes a great software development company?
- Tech stack expertise. While qualifications are important, understanding the nature of tech stack expertise beholden by a team is key. With countless frameworks and endless integrations, specialised expertise wins over generalist each, and every time. Moreover, look for parallels to your project in terms of industry, requirements, challenges, functionality, and scale and match accordingly.
- Real requirements. Good software development teams need to do so much more than simply write code. A great partner invests time and resources to understand the business side of the product they are creating. Without this deep insight any custom software solution will effectively be flawed. Take the time to discuss this crucial aspect with potential development teams. Ask hard questions to uncover how business requirements are gathered, who needs to be involved, and what this process looks like. Moreover, request examples of previous work along with contact details of past clients for added peace of mind.
- Effective communication. Effective communication can make – or break a project. And, while most teams are technically brilliant, fewer are as impressive when it comes to communication. Therefore, when seeking the services of development teams look for exemplary communication. Here, the best teams are adept in two areas: the communication of content and the communication of process. Both are essential for the seamless completion of any software development project.
- Advanced problem solving. Solutioning skills are an essential attribute present amongst all great software development teams. As every project is by nature unique, developers will inevitably face challenges they have never encountered before. When this occurs, the best teams are creative and adaptable enough to resolve whatever comes their way. To assess, look for cross functional teams possessing a variety of skills upon which to draw insight.
- Transparent pricing. All software development projects require a degree of investment in time, finances, and resources. Great teams understand this and are just as invested in succeeding as their clients. In doing so, these teams practice transparent pricing. They inform you of total project costs before commencement, don’t over charge, and are free of hidden fees. Moreover, these firms may also over a choice in pricing structure, be it fixed price or based on time and materials.
The best software developers in Canberra
Riotact’s editorial team has combed through 20 years of on-site comments to compile a list of the most recommended businesses according to you.
To be listed in our Best of Canberra series, each business needs to have consistently received positive feedback on Riotact and maintain a minimum average of 4/5 stars on both Google and Facebook reviews.
Envoy Advanced Technologies
Enterprise-grade software development specialists, Envoy Advanced Technologies, have an enviable reputation for quality project deliverables within the business community. Founded in 2005, Envoy are known for their focus on quality with transparency and a collaborative approach to clients. This deeply embedded ethos is what sets Envoy head and shoulders above the rest.
Servicing an array of industries from simple ecommerce through to financial services, travel, agribusiness, education, regulatory compliance and insurance, they have amassed an impressive portfolio of some of Australia’s most loved and respected brands.
Predominantly operating within the online space, Envoy’s services straddle both web-based business applications and back-end commercial systems. From web and mobile applications through to enterprise software, business intelligence, managed hosting and cloud computing, their remit is extensive.
With a team of highly experienced full-time developers in their employ, Envoy have carved a niche with their ability to solve complex business problems with smart utilisation of technology. This market leading team take pride in their lateral capability and willingness to tackle almost any problem.
As for their approach, Envoy believe in collaborating in the spirit of partnership. From discussing requirements through to in-depth workshops, they aim to gain a complete understanding of their client’s unique business circumstances and needs. Adopting an agile delivery framework, they cycle through sprints, releasing regular testable iterations for review.
For quality assurance and added peace of mind, Envoy offer an impressive quality guarantee. Underpinned by a commitment to 100% defect free software, this includes fixed and capped price quotations and delivery dates, open communication, full transparency, competitive hosting, and 24/7, post-delivery support. For unparalleled software development that propels your business forward look no further than Envoy Advanced Technologies.
Liam Flemming shared this wonderful sentiment on Google, “These guys are some of the best in Sydney. I have met with many of the developers and the owner. Great people, fantastic to find such openness and honesty these days.”
Technowand
SME focused Technowand, are a full-service IT solutions provider. As small business operators themselves they understand the unique challenges faced by businesses every day. Alongside IT support, website and mobile design and development, Technowand also offers custom software development services.
Their team of experienced software developers are passionate about devising technical solutions for clients. If you’re looking to address a system issue and create a custom solution Technowand are worth a visit.
As Craig Spencer shared on Google, “We have used Technowand for various Website Design and Development projects. Really impressed with the turnaround time, quality, and co-ordination. Highly recommend them.”
Agile Digital
As experts in digital strategy and enterprise software development, Agile Digital have carved a niche creating software solutions that boost business performance. Well known in the local market, they have worked across government, start-ups, and the financial services industry.
Certified across a range of key technologies and vendor partners, Agile Digital’s capabilities extend across the like of hyperscale cloud, identity and access management, API-driven data mobility and more. For assistance in creating outcomes based custom software for your business and operations look to Agile Digital.
Shayne Bellato had this to say on Google, “I have worked with the team from Agile on a number of projects now and given their professionalism during the engagements and the quality of the deliverables they produced I would have no hesitation in recommending the team to anyone.”
For other related services see our articles on the best web developers, the best web designers, the best marketing agencies, and the best PR and copywriting services in Canberra. If you’re looking for helpful information on improving your business, you might like our article on the best managed information technology support services and the best business advisers the region has to offer.
Your experience with software developers in Canberra
Thanks to our commenters who have provided insightful feedback. If you believe we have got it wrong, please let us know.
Have you had experience with any of the software developers listed above? If so, share your feedback in the comments below.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does software development include?
Software development includes the design, documentation, programming, testing, and ongoing maintenance of a software solution.
How is an off-the-shelf software different from a custom solution?
While custom software is commissioned by one client and tailored to their needs; off-the-shelf software is a ready-made solution that has been developed for use by numerous parties providing input, shared requirements, and standardised workflows.
What are the benefits of a custom software solution?
Custom software solutions provide many varied benefits. Perhaps the most obvious is personalisation, matching individual specifications to a tee. Without licensing fees, another is long term cost effectiveness. Add to this seamless integration, flexibility and scalability, and continuous support and maintenance to name but a few.
What common solutions can custom software address?
Common solutions addressed by custom software includes enterprise resource management, content management, customer relationship management, communications, operations, ecommerce and more.
Is a custom software solution right for me?
Whether a custom software solution is right for you all depends on how it matches requirements. It may be worth reflecting on off the shelf solutions and making a comparative assessment on how they suit in terms of suitability, flexibility, performance, scalability, ownership, development time and cost. If existing solutions fall short, it may be worth exploring how a custom solution can functionally address your needs. For more, speak to a software development specialist.
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