Mobile app development presents certain challenges that can cause potential delays and costly interruptions. Software developers must have a solid understanding of what problems may arise during software development and know-how to handle these obstacles in the most efficient and cost-effective way possible. While building a high-quality product that people want to use is the end goal, it takes time and dedication to reach this outcome. Here is a look at some common challenges that business leaders may encounter during the software development process.
Challenges In Software Development
Challenges in the software development process can range from minor issues that can be overcome in a day to more complex problems that may require weeks or even months of extra work and possibly assistance from a third party. Examples of challenges in software development include inadequate communication among team members, poor scheduling and inadequate software testing resulting in bugs and other missed errors.
Other challenges that a business may run into when developing software include the following:
Technology Advancement
Rapid advancements in technology can also cause challenges for software developers. As technology continues to change and evolve at an unprecedented rate, developers are pressured to leverage these up-and-coming technologies. Not only is this expected by consumers, but it is also essential for businesses that want to stay ahead of the competition. The technology sector is highly competitive and businesses must take new technologies into consideration when developing new products or services. Failure to do so could result in competitors taking the lead and making use of these advancements first.
As technology advances over time, software developers often run into issues stemming from legacy system integration limitations. These limitations can cause delays in the development and deployments, and lost time due to infrastructure modernization. To avoid the issues, businesses should consider acquiring custom software which has the ability to grow with the needs and requirements of their IT infrastructure. The ability to avoid issues which arise from the advancement of technology allows businesses to remain competitive when developing new products and services.
Overtime
Creating new software requires an environment that supports concentration and productivity. When software developers experience excessive stress in the workplace, software quality can fall. One of the biggest contributors to stress is overtime. According to a conference paper published by MEI Management, Engineering and Informatics, overtime hours experienced by project team members were seen as a reliable indicator of stress. The result was a higher number of defects recorded on each production release.
Overtime can have a negative impact on productivity and can actually be a time-waster if low productivity is sustained. It can also lower the quality of the final product which can negatively affect a business’s brand and reputation.
Limited Resources & Infrastructure
Challenges can also occur in software development when businesses do not have the resources necessary to execute projects in an effective manner. Businesses may not have access to high-performance software development tools or may experience improper connectivity or networks.
Some businesses may not own powerful computing platforms or could have inadequate data storage capabilities. When businesses face limited resources and infrastructure, it can lead to challenges that impact the final product. In some cases, having limited resources and infrastructure can also negatively affect developer productivity and performance.
Software Testing
The software testing process can also present certain challenges to software development teams. Interpersonal conflicts between members of the testing team can occur due to different personalities, difference in job roles and general job stress. If not properly handled, these issues can negatively impact the project and its outcome.
To avoid interruptions to mobile software development, software testing teams must gain a clear understanding of what problems may arise during the project and brainstorm ways on how to best handle certain issues. It is also a good idea to put together an experienced DevOps team whose sole responsibility is to handle the testing phase of the software.
System & Application Integration
Businesses have access to numerous systems, applications and technologies that can be useful during the software development process. However, most software developers find that integrating a custom or third-party software application, such as a website, ERP system or inventory management database, can prove to be highly complex. In addition to lengthening the span of the project, integrated systems and applications may be hidden until the end of the project.
This can result in delays, additional costs and possibly a lower quality product. To help avoid these issues, it is important to have an understanding of end-user requirements and take the time to research new technologies that can help achieve optimal integration.
Contact An Experienced Custom Software Development Company
When developing software, many businesses are in a hurry to get the project completed and on the market. Unfortunately, there may be challenges along the way that result in delays or unexpected expenses. While challenges in software development are not always avoidable, they do not have to have catastrophic results.
By reaching out to industry professionals during software development, businesses can achieve greater success and help ensure that their software is released on time and in budget. To learn more about challenges in software development or to speak with a custom software expert, contact Orases today by calling 301.756.5527 or by scheduling a consultation online.
