Custom software is a significant requirement of modern business enterprises that is flexible enough to address all specific business needs and problems. Unlike off-the-shelf software, it is tailored to a business’s particular procedures and needs, which is geared to boost efficiency, increase productivity, and gain competitiveness (Tamimi et al., 2019). Bespoke software eases workflows, is self-sufficient in repetitive tasks, facilitates data management, and allows adjusting to unpredictable market shifts and customer whims. The system development process includes designing, implementing, maintaining, and reviewing the courses and modules. In the design, the participants (including stakeholders) specify the requirements, establish the system’s architecture, and create the user interfaces. Whereas continuous support and enhancements are part of the evolution stage, implementation includes coding, testing, and deployment. System developers update and improve the system during maintenance to adapt to changes and maximize performance (Tamimi et al., 2019). In order to pinpoint areas in need of improvement, the review phase evaluates how well the program functions and the received user comments. This article thoroughly analyzes systems development related to bespoke software in commercial settings, emphasizing the procedures, approaches, and elements that contribute to practical implementation.
Systems Development Lifecycle
The System Development Life Cycle is a structured approach to software development that guides the team members from idea to deployment and review(Tamimi et al., 2019). It includes different approaches, methodologies, and frames appropriate for various projects and instructions. In that way, it provides a systematic, time-saving, and high-quality software development process for every project. First, the planning stage gives a foundation for the project by indicating the objectives, scope, time frame, and resource allocation. Stakeholders’ opinions are polled, the project is assessed, and feasibility studies are conducted to determine its possibilities. The first project phase is crucial as it sets the proper alignment of development efforts with business goals and initial roadmap planning for the project. The system requirement analysis stage starts with gathering, recording, and analyzing requirements after the planning phase to comprehend the specific needs of end users and stakeholders(Tamimi et al.l, 2019, This, consequently, entails establishing functional and non-functional actualities that will instruct the process following design and product development. In this case, systematic analysis will serve as a foundation for selecting the means/tool to close the existing gaps in the organization.
In the design stage, the blueprint for the software solution is drawn up, utilizing the requirements uncovered in the previous stage. Together, arch, textural design, database design, user interface design, and specification of system components are listed as a part of the responsibilities. (Tamimi et al. 2019), This design phase is in which the most important decisions are made, reflecting the end item’s functional, usable, and scalable characteristics. When the design is set up, the implementation converts the design specification to the executable code or realizes the product and follows the design specification. Part of the developers’ writing and testing of the code involves integrating different system parts to create its complete version. In this phase, the software solution starts empirically with developing a product from the idea through iterative development and testing.
The maintenance phase is crucial in the SDLC, ensuring the software continues to operate smoothly, deliver the required performance, and be secured from attacks. The process comprises bug fixing, updates, enhancements, and main tenancy tasks to take care of any modifications over time. Appropriate soft support is critical for prolonging its life and ensuring software stability.
Lastly, the review stand includes the performance test, usability check, and objective setting of the software. Stakeholders’ and users’ feedback is gathered to recognize the system’s strong points, decide the areas for improvement, and define the software’s future versions. Persistent review and refinement are necessary for innovation and valuable software to provide competitiveness in a swiftly shifting market environment.
Design Phase
The design process is one of the critical phases in the systems development lifecycle (SDLC), where the building blocks for the software solution are prepared based on the information obtained during the analysis stage. (Tamimi et al. 2019), A system architecture performs the following functions: It translates functional and non-functional requirements into a precise design, which in turn elaborates a detailed plan for the successful implementation of the system. DesignThe section is also concerned with seeing that the suggested solution complies with the organization’s strategic objectives, technological capabilities, and needs. Using a design basis that continuously underpins the design process allows team members to unit tasks promptly, reduce risks, and build a product that works as stakeholders expect.
Many software design approaches and unique methodologies are available. Scrum project management practices value product delivery over individual processes, where all work must be finished in a past stage to start the next(Islam & Ferworn, 2020). In contrast, adopting Agile methods, practitioners focus on flexibility and teamwork, involving the participants in a series of iterative, multi-pronged cycles of iteration, during which the designed features are tested and upgraded based on real-life problems. (Tamimi et al. 2019), Rapid Application Development (RAD) is the methodological approach that fastens users’ feedback and relative prototyping progress, enabling quick iterations and accelerated development cycles.
Essential tasks of the design stage consist of various work areas such as software solution architecture, functionality, and user interface. The requirements-gathering process requires further elaboration of requirements found during the analysis phase to make them clear and complete. Architectural design specifies the system’s structure, components, and interface to prepare for an effective and scalable development. On the other hand, UI and UX design involves more than creating intuitive, visually appealing interfaces that increase user satisfaction and productivity. Through participation in these significant activities, development teams can assemble an all-round design of the software solution, which considers technical feasibility, user interaction, and implementation and release of the solution.
Implementation Phase
The implementation phase of the SDLC transforms design into the actual development of software solutions. This stage of software development involves translating the specified design, requirements, and blueprint into a program that can execute the function and correspond to the architecture. It is a one-stage process that involves writing, testing, and integrating the code to develop a system that works and is tailored according to the organization’s needs.
Approaches used for the computations of a couple of software programs differ depending on factors such as the programmed language used, the development unit, and the project plan. Typical coding styles involve modular programming, object-oriented programming (OOP), and functional programming, which are different variants of organizing the code torn in pieces, readability, reusability, and maintainability. Software developers, in particular, take advantage of special software tools and Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) to produce quality code so that the software will run as expected(Tamimi et al., 2019). These tools efficiently facilitate writing, editing, testing, and diagnosing coding problems.
Testing processes are necessary to confirm that the designed software meets the valid requirements of high functionality, reliability, and performance when it goes into operation. Some tests include unit testing, which is all about isolating units or individual modules for testing purposes to ensure their response to the various stimuli maintains the desired outcome. Integration testing looks deep into the integrated component’s interaction and interfaces to ensure the screen works well (Tamimi et al., 2019), l. The final testing stage is acceptance, wherein the software undergoes validation to show that it complies with the user requirements and criteria so that the actual users are content with the system. Adopting the testing strategy based on the application of unit, integration, and acceptance testing allows organizations to detect bugs early in software development. It prevents the appearance of some serious errors in a production environment.
Effective planning and execution of the shift from development to production environments is critical to commercial organizations’ bespoke software deployment and rollout strategies. This covers tasks like setting up servers and software, moving data, and instructing end users. Organizations may roll out the program entirely or progressively in stages depending on variables, including complexity, risk, and resource availability. Minimizing interruptions to corporate operations, facilitating seamless transitions, and offering continuous assistance to resolve problems and user feedback are the top priorities of effective deployment methods. Organizations may enhance the effectiveness of bespoke software solutions and generate commercial value by meticulously organizing and carrying out deployment plans.
Maintenance Phase
The Systems Development Lifecycle (SDLC) maintenance level is an indispensable stage in software product deployment. It implies performing tasks directed toward achieving the proper performance of the software at the level of its operation (Tamimi et al., 2019). However, often neglected, maintenance plays a crucial role in attending to the issues at hand, getting ready for changes that are given, and making sure that this software can meet ongoing business needs and all sorts of technological advancements. The maintenance phase is critical because it determines the future lifeline of the software solution. The software solution will be sustained and continue serving its users if maintained well.
Maintenance activities can be categorized into four main types: remedial, supportive, idealized, and aversion. Error-correction maintenance involves analyzing software developed for the bugs present, errors, and issues arising post-deployment. It aims to restore the software to its optimum functionality (Sinha, 2021). Adaptive maintenance is concerned with the modifications in the software being made, taking into account any changes in the business environment that can be in the form of new technology, regulation, or user requirements(Salazar-Fierro et al., 2023). Perfective maintenance introduces the component of increasing the usability, performance, or effectiveness of the software solutions based on the user’s and the experience of stakeholders’ feedback. Preventive maintenance is all about the forward-evident action of detecting and resolving possible risks or problems before adversely affecting the software’s dependability, functioning, or performance.
Through an effective version control system like Git, developers can track changes, establish a smooth collaboration between team members, and efficiently handle their code repositories (Sinha, 2021). For instance, systems as sophisticated as JIRA or Bugzilla track problems so that they are progressively identified, prioritized, and resolved. In addition, some organizations may introduce formal change management processes, which define the sequence of planning, approval, and application of software changes, ensuring the change is fully controlled and orderly.
Maintenance helps the software function as all the malfunctions are addressed to ensure no deviation from the organizational goals. Bug fixes, security patches, performance improvement, and many more are continuous updates that improve how the software works and make it more valuable(Tamimi et al., 2019). Besides, constant assistance establishes service users with the possibility of technical “assistance,” debugging, and training, thus utilizing software solutions (Sinha,2021). By giving preferential treatment to continuous upgrades and versions, organizations can prolong the life span of custom software, eliminate the platform from stalling or halting business operations, and provide the best-suited solution for present and future needs by considering the latest technological trends.
Review/ Evaluation Stage
The review process is a critical stage of the Systems Development Lifecycle (SDLC), which assesses the developed software system’s performance, functionality, and conformity to the organizational targets and user requirements. The main objective of the review stage is to determine whether the software achieves its set goal and uncover the points where it can be improved through optimization (Tamimi et al.l, 2019, The organization conducts detailed reviews by collecting feedback and checking assumptions to make the right decisions regarding the solution roadmap. Software performance and effectiveness are usually evaluated using different methods (Sinha,2021). Metrics, e.g., response time, throughput, and resource utilization can inform us about software performance potential and scalability. Functional testing ensures the software pieces’ functionality meets set requirements and works appropriately in different environments. UX testing evaluates the software’s usability, accessibility, and satisfaction by gathering user feedback via surveys and usability test sessions. Moreover, organizations could track customer satisfaction scores, NPS, or KPIs to evaluate the software’s contribution to the business outcomes.
Eliciting feedback from stakeholders and users provides input on software alignment with organizational targets, budget constraints, and other technical issues (Sinha,2021). Having the target audience in the software solution role, the end users could provide invaluable insights into usability, functionality, and overall satisfaction ratings with the product. Organizations may have the entire impression of the requirements and the people’s preferences based on different data collection methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, and user testing sessions.
Frequent refinements and permanent improvement methods are vital for continuously refining custom software solutions (Sinha, 2021). The purpose of the review stage is to collect user feedback so the organization can figure out what to deal with first and develop incremental patches and updates to solve the issues. Agile methodologies create an environment of ‘continuous improvement,’ which means that the development teams can respond to changing demands, incorporate comments, and produce values that can be continuously delivered(Sinha,2021; Al-Saqqa et al., 2020)). Furthermore, organizations can create procedures to address feature requests, bugs, and technical debt handling to ensure that the improvements are aligned with business needs and addressed systematically. Through iterative enhancement strategies and continuous improvement techniques, companies could help themselves by enriching the power of custom software, promoting breakthroughs, and staying ahead of their competitors in the market.
Challenges and Considerations
Systems development and implementation in an organization might encounter several challenges. Problematic issues, such as imprecise requirements, scope extension, unattainable timeframes, technical complications, and lack of stakeholder cooperation, can arise. Other challenges include dynamic business needs, new technological developments, and organizational resistance to change (Salazar-Fierro et al., 2023). For project success, organizations should have a communication strategy, collaborate, and solve problems ahead of time.
The achievability of a custom software project depends on the scope and nature of such vital factors as project management practices, stakeholder involvement, team expertise, and corporate culture. Effective project management requires explicit defining of the objectives, allocation of resources, and risk management. The ability to engage stakeholders efficiently and effectively manage expectations can reduce misconceptions and match the business’s goals. A good and sharp development team is a prerequisite to producing high-quality software on schedule and within the planned budget.
In addition, ethical considerations in software development and usage are crucial as the world has become tech-oriented. Designers and institutions must review privacy, data protection, fairness, and transparency throughout the process (Salazar-Fierro et al., 2023). This would involve verifying the compliance of the software, protecting user data, designing systems that consider the users, and giving them control and freedom. By emphasizing ethical matters, firms build users’ trust, reduce legal and reputational harms, and enrich the digital environment.
References
Al-Saqqa, S., Sawalha, S., & AbdelNabi, H. (2020). Agile software development: Methodologies and trends. International Journal of Interactive Mobile Technologies, 14(11).
Islam, A. Z., & Ferworn, A. (2020). A Comparison between Agile and traditional software development methodologies. Global Journal of Computer Science and Technology, 20(C2), 7-42.
Parihar, S. S., & Kumar, P. (2022). A Study on Comparison of Code Coverage Analyzer for JAVA.
Salazar-Fierro, F. A., Guamán-Cupacán, B. R., León-Fernández, C. V., Pineda-Manosalvas, C. A., Reascos-Paredes, I. M., & Herrera-Quispe, J. A. (2023). Failures in the implantation of Enterprise IT Application: Case studies and their leading causes. Revista Colombiana de Computación, 24(2), 1-11.
Sinha, R. (2021). Analytical Study on System Implementation and Maintenance. Journal of Applied Science and Computations. DOI:10.13140/RG.2.2.23858.94403
Tamimi, M. O. U. T. A. S. M., Alghamdi, F. A. T. I. M. A. H., & Yaseen, A. H. I. D. (2019). A systematic snapshot review of custom-made software enterprises from the development perspectives. International Journal of Information Systems, 9(1), 1-22.
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