If you are new to the mobile or web app development world, you may or may not have heard the terms SaaS or custom software development. However, both are integral to our modern, digitally-native lives. Let’s dive into the differences between SaaS and custom software development. (Get in touch with us if you have questions on a project of your own. )
Table of Contents
What Is SaaS?
SaaS is short for Software as a Service. Users purchase or use SaaS to access cloud-based applications on the internet. Think of it as renting an app. The service provider will oversee the data center and the infrastructure, middleware, and app software. Users agree to a service agreement to ensure security and protection for their data. Common SaaS examples include:
- DocuSign
- Slack
- Hubspot
- MailChimp
- Dropbox
What Is Custom Software?
Custom software development involves designing, creating, and maintaining software for users or organizations. It is typically highly specialized and encompasses a narrowly defined set of requirements.
Organizations often invest in custom software for specific needs versus commercial software products, such as the Microsoft Business Suite. Custom software is a valuable resource for any business that needs tailored software for practical use rather than commercial viability.
Custom software development encompasses the same process and methodologies as normal software development.
Software Testing Accounts to What Percent of Software Development Costs
Typically, software testing is 40-50% of software development costs. However, there is considerable variance due to the broad umbrella beneath software development. For instance, the development team size, project scope size, type of project, and other factors will inevitably influence the scope of software testing.
Some projects may have higher security requirements due to the sensitivity of data. Other projects may have limited capabilities and less complexity. Ultimately, a professional Business Analyst should evaluate your project needs to estimate the software testing costs accurately.
Difference Between Standard Software and Customized Software
There are many differences between standard and customized software. Standard software is often sold to the public, it cannot be modified, and it often can encompass several tools within the same software package.
Custom software is usually for a specific company or department. It is made for a highly-specialized and specific purpose. It is often more complicated than packaged software made for public use with an intuitive UI. Custom software can be modified and changed if needed, unlike standard packaged software.
A company may finance custom software to track employee work hours or benefits. Standard software is a marketable product aimed at user consumption. Customized software is not usually commercially available.
Do You Need Custom Software Developed? Fill Out Our Questionnaire to See If We Are the Right Fit For You!
Contact us to discuss your app project. We can help you create your custom software development project. Fill out our questionnaire to tell us about your project. We’ll give you an accurate quote and project roadmap to fit your project goals. In the meantime, continue to learn more about mobile and web app development and check out some more of our great content:
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- Benefits of Custom Software Development
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- Mobile App Development Terminology