What is Batch Tracking in Pharmaceuticals?

Batch tracking, also known as batch tracing or lot tracking, involves systematically monitoring and recording information related to a specific batch of pharmaceutical products. This process is fundamental for maintaining quality control, ensuring regulatory compliance, and responding swiftly in case of recalls.

In traditional pharmaceutical operations, batch tracking relied on manual record-keeping and paper-based systems. However, with the advent of technology, custom batch tracking software has become a game-changer, introducing efficiency, accuracy, and traceability into pharmaceutical processes.

Challenges in Traditional Batch Tracking Methods

Traditional batch tracking methods posed several challenges to pharmaceutical companies:

• Manual Errors: Paper-based systems were susceptible to human errors, potentially leading to inaccuracies in batch information.
• Time-Consuming: Manual tracking was time-consuming and could cause delays in identifying and addressing issues within a batch.
• Limited Traceability: Traditional methods offer limited traceability, making it challenging to pinpoint the source of an issue in the production or distribution process.

Benefits of Custom Batch Tracking Software

The adoption of custom batch tracking software brings forth a myriad of benefits:

• Enhanced Traceability: Custom software provides end-to-end traceability, allowing pharmaceutical companies to trace the journey of each batch throughout the supply chain.
• Real-time Monitoring: Automated batch tracking enables real-time monitoring, ensuring that deviations from the standard operating procedures are detected promptly.
• Error Reduction: By eliminating manual data entry and introducing automated tracking, the software significantly reduces the risk of errors in batch information.
• Regulatory Compliance: Custom batch tracking software is designed to meet regulatory requirements, facilitating compliance with industry standards.

Explore one of Konverge’s offerings: Field Eagle

Integration with ERP Systems

Pharmaceutical companies are integrating batch tracking software with Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) systems to streamline operations further. This integration enhances overall operational efficiency by synchronizing batch data with other critical aspects of the business, namely inventory management, production planning, and distribution. It is effective in the following ways:

1. Holistic Efficiency:

• Synchronized Processes: Seamless data flow aligns batch tracking with broader operational functions.
• Real-time Accessibility: ERP’s centralized platform grants instant access to batch statuses, inventory, and production schedules.

2. Optimized Operations

• Stock Optimization: Enhances visibility for stock optimization and resource utilization.
• Enhanced Traceability: Ensures traceability across the supply chain for better inventory control.

3. Precision Planning

• Demand Forecasting: Facilitates advanced demand forecasting for informed production planning.
• Resource Efficiency: Optimizes resource utilization, enhancing productivity and cost-effectiveness.

4. Efficient Distribution

• Order Fulfillment: Streamlines order fulfillment for accurate and timely deliveries.
• Compliance Assurance: Ensures compliance with regulatory standards during distribution.

5. Informed Decision-Making

• Analytics and Reporting: Lays a robust foundation for data analytics, supporting strategic decision-making.

Future of Batch Tracking in Pharma

The future of batch tracking in the pharmaceutical industry looks promising. Advancements in technology, including integrating Internet of Things (IoT) devices and blockchain, are expected to bring about even greater transparency, security, and traceability to batch-tracking processes.

Read Blog: 2024 Trends: How Custom Software is Reshaping the Tech Landscape

Conclusion

In conclusion, the pursuit of precision in pharmaceutical operations stands as an unwavering commitment, and the integration of batch-tracking software is a pivotal catalyst for achieving this goal. The transition from conventional, manual methods to tailored software solutions signifies a substantial leap forward in terms of efficiency, accuracy, and regulatory compliance.

As pharmaceutical entities persist in their pursuit of operational excellence, the synergy between batch-tracking software and ERP systems emerges as a crucial avenue. The integration of these technologies not only ensures streamlined operations but also fosters a proactive approach to emerging industry trends and advancements.

Partnering with Konverge

With over 30 years of unparalleled Software Development expertise, Konverge is a trusted ally in your Custom Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Software needs. Our tailored solutions are crafted to meet the unique demands of the pharmaceutical industry, ensuring precision, compliance, and innovation.

Embark on a precision-driven path with Konverge by booking a free consultation. Let our seasoned experts guide you toward harnessing the full potential of custom pharmaceutical manufacturing software. Elevate your operations, enhance compliance, and pioneer innovation in the dynamic landscape of pharmaceuticals.

The post Precision Pharma Operations: A Deep Dive into Batch Tracking Software appeared first on Konverge Digital Solutions.

The Rise of Software as a Medical Device

The rise of SaMD is a testament to the continuous advancements in technology. Over the years, it has evolved from simple applications to complex systems with the power to transform healthcare. The significance of SaMD in modern healthcare cannot be overstated.

• According to a Fact.MR report, The global software as a medical device market, currently valued at $1.1 billion, is projected to reach $5.4 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of over 16% from 2022 to 2032

Read Blog: A Look at the Latest Software Development Trends in 2023

SaMD in Diagnostics and Monitoring

• According to a Frontiers in Psychiatry report, SaMD applications in diagnostics have demonstrated diagnostic accuracy levels exceeding 90%, surpassing human capabilities.
• Real-time patient monitoring through wearable SaMD devices can reduce hospital readmissions by 76%, according to a study published in the American Journal of Managed Care.

Moreover, SaMD enables real-time monitoring of patients. Wearable devices and mobile apps equipped with SaMD can track vital signs, detect anomalies, and provide instant feedback. This real-time data can be a game-changer in patient care, especially for those with chronic conditions.

SaMD in Treatment and Therapy

SaMD isn’t limited to diagnostics and monitoring. It plays a crucial role in treatment planning and personalized medicine. With the help of SaMD, healthcare providers can develop treatment plans tailored to individual patients. This level of personalization ensures that patients receive the most effective treatments with minimal side effects.

• According to a National Institute of Health report, Personalized treatment plans developed with the help of SaMD have shown a 33% increase in treatment effectiveness.  

Regulatory Framework and Compliance

The development and deployment of SaMD come with significant responsibilities. Ensuring patient safety and data security are paramount. This is where regulatory bodies step in. SaMD is subject to strict regulations to guarantee its effectiveness and safety.

• SaMD is subject to strict regulations, with the FDA regulating medical devices’ safety and effectiveness. Compliance with these regulations is essential to ensure patient safety.

Benefits and Challenges of SaMD

SaMD offers many benefits, but these advantages come hand in hand with unique challenges that necessitate a careful balance. Understanding both sides of the equation is essential for responsible and effective implementation:

Benefits of SaMD:

• Enhanced Diagnostics: 

SaMD has significantly improved diagnostic accuracy, often surpassing human capabilities. These tools can rapidly process vast patient data and provide precise diagnostic insights. For example, machine learning algorithms can analyze medical images with extraordinary accuracy.

• Personalized Treatment: 

SaMD enables the development of personalized treatment plans. By analyzing a patient’s unique health data and history, healthcare providers can create tailored interventions that offer the most effective treatment with minimal side effects. Personalization leads to better patient outcomes and satisfaction.

• Real-Time Monitoring: 

SaMD empowers real-time patient monitoring through wearable devices and mobile apps. These devices can track vital signs, detect anomalies, and provide instant feedback to patients and healthcare providers. Real-time monitoring is particularly valuable for patients with chronic conditions, allowing early intervention and reducing hospital admissions.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: 

SaMD generates a wealth of data that can be leveraged for data-driven healthcare. These insights can inform clinical decision-making, policy development, and medical research. As the volume of patient data grows, the potential for breakthroughs and innovative treatments increases.

Challenges of SaMD:

• Data Privacy and Security: 

SaMD devices collect and transmit sensitive patient data. Ensuring data privacy and security is paramount. There’s a constant challenge in safeguarding this data from breaches, unauthorized access, or misuse. Complying with data protection regulations like HIPAA is essential but can be complex.

• Regulatory Compliance: 

SaMD is subject to stringent regulatory requirements to ensure its safety and effectiveness. Developing compliant software, maintaining documentation, and navigating the regulatory landscape can be time-consuming and costly. Failure to meet these regulations can result in significant legal and financial consequences.

• Interoperability:

The healthcare ecosystem comprises diverse software and hardware systems. Ensuring seamless integration and interoperability with various electronic health record (EHR) systems and medical devices is a considerable challenge. Lack of interoperability can hinder the adoption of SaMD in clinical settings.

• Ethical and Legal Considerations: 

The development and use of SaMD raise ethical and legal questions. Issues such as consent for data use, patient autonomy, and liability for software errors need to be addressed. The ethical use of AI algorithms in SaMD is an ongoing debate.

• Technical Challenges: 

SaMD needs to function reliably and accurately. Developing software that can withstand hardware failures or data discrepancies is complex. Ensuring the performance of SaMD across various platforms and network conditions is a significant technical challenge.

• Cost and Resource Allocation: 

Developing and implementing SaMD requires substantial time, money, and human resources. The challenge is to manage these costs while keeping healthcare services affordable and accessible.

Conclusion

In the current year of 2023, software development is a dynamic field, continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation. From the ever-expanding world of Artificial Intelligence to the democratization of software development through low-code and no-code platforms, we’re experiencing a tech ecosystem that redefines industries and how we interact with technology. These trends are interconnected, creating a vibrant environment for innovation and collaboration. As we navigate the software development landscape of 2023, we’re embracing a future full of exciting possibilities. The journey has just begun, and the software development world has never looked more promising.

As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of Konverge Digital Solutions, we are proud to be industry leaders in software development. With a team of knowledgeable developers, we continue to drive innovation in SaMD and various other technology fields. The future holds incredible opportunities, and we’re excited to be a part of this transformative journey. Contact us to book a free consultation today

The post From Code to Cure: The Potential of Software as a Medical Device appeared first on Konverge Digital Solutions.

Artificial Intelligence (AI)

Artificial intelligence is probably the most important and ground-breaking trend in technology today. The fact that we have created machines and systems that can think for themselves is truly astounding, and the trend shows no signs of slowing down. AI can already be found in your own pocket, with the Apple iPhone’s Siri being a perfect example. The advent of smart homes, smart cities, and the Internet Of Things means that AI will be integrated more and more into our everyday lives. It’s the stuff of science fiction being made into reality, and it’s happening right before our very eyes.

Online Streaming

You can largely thank Netflix for the exploding trend of online streaming that is taking hold of the way we entertain ourselves. Today there are entire movies and television shows that are available exclusively on Netflix, Amazon Prime, and other online streaming services, that people enjoy immensely. Cable television could soon be a thing of the past if the online streaming craze continues to grow.

Virtual Reality (VR)

Virtual reality is an exciting trend in technology that is making it possible for us to experience things such as entertainment and learning in a whole new way. VR is a great technological trend that is making waves in the entertainment industry, with video games and other platforms hopping on the bandwagon. VR is also a great way to train and educate, especially when it comes to important work that needs to be done with a pair of hands; practicing something with the use of VR is an excellent way to receive hands-on training without any risk or consequences if mistakes are made.

Augmented Reality (AR)

In 2019, AR saw its record growth. This interactive experience allows information such as images or texts to be superimposed in a real-world environment. Mobile AR-enabled devices and mobile AR apps are introduced to new users daily as novel ways of shopping and solutions for enterprises that include mixed reality settings to their traditional training methods. AR applications will continue to improve and will certainly play an important role in how we interact with our environments and reality.

On-demand Apps

Today, people are getting more and more used to having everything available to them on-demand by using one smartphone app or another. Uber and food delivery apps are some of the most noticeable players in this rapidly growing tech trend. As time goes on, and more of these apps are created, we may very well see the way we live our day-to-day lives change in a very dramatic way.

It’s certainly an exciting time to be alive if you are a tech junkie, and you can definitely look forward to these trends growing even more in the years to come. Technology is one of the greatest things we have in life, and as long as we continue to further it in a responsible and forward-moving manner, the future will be full of even more technological wonders.

Custom Software Development

With new advancements in technology, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of products and services. Custom software can give you an edge over your competitors. Pivot to the world of today. With a unique, quality bespoke software product or mobile application that can be tailored to your needs, you can elevate your business in a whole new way. Interested in Konverge’s collaborative approach? Request a consultation today.

The post Exploring Image Recognition: The Pros and Cons Unveiled appeared first on Konverge Digital Solutions.

Many organizations are now venturing into various integration processes to digitize their business operations and customer engagement. Digital transformation employs the use of technology and other digital tools to improve initial digital processes in place. Digital technology is integrated into various departments in a business setting and imparts a change in how they operate.

Some companies have progressed further than others in the digital transformation process. Many companies still consider themselves in the early stages of digital transformation. For those still working through the justifications and arguments, here are some reasons why it is worth the effort. After the digitization of assets in your company, here’s what comes next:

Improved Customer Experience

A smooth business entails having a frictionless customer experience. For instance, take the case of customer data entry. When you want your customers or clients to fill a series of documents, this can be tedious. Digitizing and automating the whole process would lift the burden off their shoulders, which is a good thing.

It’s commonly understood in the customer service field that “effortless customer experience” is one that businesses should strive towards. With this in mind, any steps that can reduce the roadblocks on a customer’s journey need to be embraced.

Efficiency in your Organization will Increase

By the very nature of digital transformation, workflows are made more efficient, faster, and easier. As businesses digitize legacy processes and procedures, they are given an opportunity to document what is actually happening. Over time, these improvements let companies automate labor-intensive processes. This helps customers receive better and more prioritized services.

Digital Transformation Keeps You in the Market

A successful business should keep up with the competition. Now that your organization would run faster and more efficiently, your profits would most likely increase.

Your competitors are also familiar with what comes after digital transformation. You need to recognize that it is crucial for the future success of your business. As such, only a considered competitive strategy would keep you on edge and maintain you there.

With cost management, quality improvement will increase sales and customer satisfaction, and your earnings are more likely to increase. The bottom line is that digital transformation has the ability to help your business grow and succeed.

The Human Workforce

Engaging the human element is a holistic model that enables your strategy in digital transformation. From engineers to designers and production managers, staff at all levels are required.

Digital transformation is not just about technology and tools. It includes having the right people in place with the right skills. Automation, for example, is transforming many industries. Employees impacted by these technologies need retraining to ensure that they still have growth opportunities available to them.

Similarly, process improvements that remove redundant job functions need addressing. Are those employees being transitioned out or is there value in retraining them for the new roles that digital transformation creates?

Today’s economy and workforce are radically different from what it was a decade ago. The rise of remote working as a norm and the gig economy itself are both facets of this trend. Companies that embrace digital transformation need to understand the human challenges that underlie this transformation.

Artificial Intelligence – Machine Learning and Basic Analytics

Artificial Intelligence (AI) continues to drive digital transformation to the next level as time goes by. With all the data available, AI can effectively analyze patterns in large volumes of data.

Machine learning and Artificial Intelligence are two technologies that work together. Machine learning is a specific subset of Artificial Intelligence that trains a machine on how to learn. This technology makes it easier to analyze astronomical amounts of data automatically in a simplified manner. This helps to deliver more accurate and useful results.

Now that you are business-oriented, you might want to employ cheaper, more powerful, and more affordable computational processes. It would put you on the safer side of recognizing profitable opportunities. Governments, health care, financial services, and transportation services are embracing AI for the following reasons and more:

• To detect fraud that is universal malice in the world today.
• To identify intricate behavioral patterns in clients and give alerts for unusual cases or events.
• To grow volumes of available data to create digitalized processing that is cheaper and faster.
• To identify profitable opportunities for an organization and to avoid unknown risks.

Basic Analytics

In the business world today, companies looking to make an impact need to focus on their strengths. Utilizing tools, technologies, and custom software solutions to complement your business operations only makes sense.

Basic analytics is an essential tool that helps you understand what happens in your organization. This is based on the data you have selected. AI can help unleash the real power behind basic analytics. With basic analytics, you get to:

• Create and deliver all your essential strategies.
• Focus on the initiatives that matter for your business instead of getting distracted with concerns that are not relevant.
• Receive alerts for truly unusual upcoming events and recognize patterns of activity in your business setting.

Basic analytics tied with AI lets you be proactive instead of reactive when it comes to running a business.

Advanced Analytics – Predictive and Prescriptive Analytics

These two different types of analytics are very much about trying to identify future trends.

Predictive Analytics – a problem may arise, such as sales that are not on track to meet goals. Predictive analytics is future-facing and uses trends and raw data to help you plan. This analysis is useful in determining where to focus efforts. To meet your problem head-on, you’ll need predictive analytics among other forms of artificial intelligence.

Prescriptive Analytics – this applies to a different course of action. Unlike predictive analytics, prescriptive is based around an analysis of the data. If you’re seeking a particular goal, prescriptive analytics provides more information than predictive. Prescriptive analytics will not only tell you the problem but will also suggest a solution.

Conclusion

Action is the main objective here. Digital transformation helps you to identify the best move that can help your organization succeed. With these in-line, you’ll need the best technology and custom software solution at your disposal.

This is where we can help. At Konverge, we understand technology. We have access to the latest tools and our team is familiar with the interplay of customer success and business success.

Our trained experts can work with you to create a custom software solution to help you achieve your digital transformation goals. Our team can work with you to define a specific goal that you wish to achieve. We then create a plan for achieving that goal with clearly defined milestones and deliverables.

Konverge knows that digital transformation is a process and there is no magic bullet to success. We can help you understand how your business can be more efficient and profitable by embracing digital transformation.

The post What Comes After Digital Transformation? appeared first on Konverge Digital Solutions.

As a digital business, however, one of your most significant responsibilities is finding the right software for your company which means you’ll be choosing between off-the-shelf and custom software. Below, we compare the two options based on some key considerations to help you determine the best fit for your business.

The Question of Cost, Custom Software Vs. Off The Shelf

Let’s begin with a common concern among buyers: which option is more cost-effective – off-the-shelf or custom software? There are two primary considerations to keep in mind here; the cost of acquisition and cost of maintenance.

With regards to the cost of acquisition, off-the-shelf software solutions win. The reason is simple; since off-the-shelf solutions are meant to be sold to multiple users (sometimes in their thousands), the development costs can be spread among many users. The result is lower prices. This is different from custom software solutions that are designed for a single user. Since the individual user has to shoulder all development costs, prices tend to be higher.

Off-the-shelf software solutions are also cheaper to maintain for the same reasons. The maintenance costs can be spread across multiple users. If you choose custom software, however, you must be ready to shoulder all maintenance costs.

So, here, off-the-shelf software solutions win.

Custom Application Development Offers Ease of Implementation

After considering the cost, you then need to find the ease of implementation. How much effort is required to implement the solution successfully?

Here again, off-the-shelf solutions have the edge. There are a couple of reasons why starting with the kind of work required of the organization during custom software development. Although you won’t be the one developing the software, you need to provide the developers with all the information required to create a system that adequately addresses your needs. You may also have to help with testing and UX. These are things off-the-shelf buyers don’t have to contend with.

The other reason is learning and understanding the software. Custom software solutions are unique creations. They are unlike anything you’ve seen out there. It means that you can’t learn off other people because those people don’t have a similar software solution. Often, this results in a more extended implementation phase that could negatively impact your business. Off-the-shelf software, meanwhile, is used by many other people out there. You can efficiently study the software by observing others and better prepare for implementation by learning off other’s mistakes.

The Need for Deep Customization and Scalability

Another common consideration for businesses is customization. And this is where custom solutions win big.

Again, there are two reasons why. First, businesses are typically looking for solutions to specific problems. Whether it’s an accounting issue or security hitch, you’ll want a solution that is created to accurately and adequately address the issue, not just scratch the surface. Custom solutions allow you to find one-time solutions to your problems. Different from off-the-shelf solutions that are designed to address generic and routing functionalities, custom solutions are created to address exactly what your business lacks. In other words, you have a higher chance of fixing your problems with custom software solutions.

The other reason is what’s in the package. Off-the-shelf solutions typically come with unnecessary features that clog the package; features you’ll probably never need. These “spam” features expose your system to unnecessary security threats as well as create an avoidable maintenance headache. Custom solutions don’t come with any unnecessary features. You only get what you ordered.

Ease of Integration with Custom Solution

Another area where custom software solutions win big is integration. Simply put, integration refers to the ability of the new solution to fit into the rest of the system seamlessly. How quickly can your solution fit into the existing system?

Off-the-shelf solutions are not easy to integrate into the rest of the system because they are never designed with the system in mind. The developers aren’t aware of the type of software their potential customers are currently using. All they care about is creating a software solution to help as many people as possible address a problem. It might, therefore, require a significant amount of effort to fit the new solution into the existing system. In fact, sometimes the new system may not fit at all, forcing you to acquire a different solution.

Custom software solutions solve this issue by ensuring that the solution you get is ready to go into the existing system. That’s because before creating the software, developers first evaluate the current system. With that done, they can create a solution that takes minimal effort to integrate into the existing IT environment.

Update Frequency and Security

The good news here is that both off-the-shelf and custom solutions are mostly regularly updated. Nevertheless, there are a few differences in the reliability of these updates.

If you choose to buy your software off-the-shelf, the provider will promise to provide regular updates. It gets better, to update off-the-shelf software, all you need to do is click a few buttons. You don’t have to call an expert to help with the process. Also, you’re likely to receive a notification whenever updates become available. This can help ensure that you don’t miss any new updates.

The problem, however, is when updates aren’t released for an extended period or if some aspects of the solution aren’t updated for an extended period. Remember that new threats come to the scene every single day as hackers become more sophisticated and viruses evolve. Whenever updates are delayed, your business is exposed to endless security risks.

That’s where custom software solutions prove their worth. With custom software, you can add whatever updates you want, whenever you want. You don’t have to wait for new releases to add features to your software. Whenever you feel that the existing solution isn’t serving you well, you call your software development partner to update the solution.

Flexibility and Scalability

Finally, no matter what size your business is, you need to keep scalability in mind whenever they purchase the software. You want to buy a solution that allows you to expand your operations without limitations.

Off-the-shelf solutions might promise this, but they rarely deliver. Typically, you’ll find different pricing plans that offer greater resources as you move upwards. However, ask yourself what happens after you exhaust the resources provided in the highest priced plan. Alternatively, even before we get there, ask yourself about the challenges of moving from one pricing plan to the next plan. In some cases, making this transition may not be as smooth as you’d like. Many business owners have experienced situations where upgrading to the next plan was made impossible by “technical” difficulties, in some cases forcing the company to change providers.

The only permanent solution to this problem is custom software development. With custom development, you can scale at your own pace, as and when you need to.

Making a Decision, Ready to get started?

As you can see, both options have their strengths and drawbacks. But, custom software development comes out on top. You can customize the software to address your specific needs and scale at your own pace. Also, you get to enjoy easier integration and reliable product updates. Don’t hesitate. Or procrastinate. Our custom software solution service is the missing link to streamline your operational excellence. Our application development and mobile app development services have been crafted for the benefit of business like yours. Don’t miss out on the opportunity. Get started by scheduling a free consultation today.

The post Off-The-Shelf/Packaged Software Vs. Custom Software: Which Is Best for Your Business? appeared first on Konverge Digital Solutions.

Custom software development, meanwhile, refers to solutions that are specially built to address a particular situation. They aren’t purchased off-the-shelf. Instead, if you need a solution, such as a program to help you manage your customer database, etc., you must approach a software development company, discuss your needs, and have them design a solution customized to those specific needs.

While packaged software solutions are easier to acquire and even cheaper, an increasing number of businesses have been shifting to custom software to streamline operations. Here are five reasons why this trend is on the rise.

1. Personalization Customer Software Development

Perhaps the biggest reason for the rise in custom software solutions is personalization. Personalization refers to creating solutions precisely as you want and in line with other existing business processes. If you’re building a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) software program, then the design has to match your precise needs as well as seamlessly fit into your current business strategy. This means that the designers begin by assessing your current system to create a solution that complements the system you already have in place.

The most significant benefit resulting from such a design process is continuity and minimal disruption if any. Since the designer already knows how your current system operates, they can build a system that doesn’t require much effort to fit into the existing organizational ecosystem. Also, you won’t have to significantly disrupt the current flow of operations to integrate the new solution. Minimal disruption means you don’t lose momentum, customers, or revenue.

2. Flexible Scalability Offered by Customized Application

Custom software also streamlines operations by enhancing scalability. Scalability is the capacity to change in size or scale. You might be a small business today, but that doesn’t mean you’ll remain the same forever. You could be planning to add a few more employees, open a new branch or two, or launch a new line of products. To make these changes, you need to update your software to reflect the new employees, departments, or product lines. When your customer base expands, you also need your software to “expand” to accommodate the new customers.

Custom software allows for easier and more reliable scalability compared to packaged software. Take an example of the CRM solutions mentioned earlier. Packaged CRM software solutions are available in different plans where each plan can accommodate up to a specific number of customers. It means that unless your CRM allows for smart, automatic upgrades to higher level plans, once your current level is used up, you’re back to square one.  Custom software solutions are built as per your needs to allow for seamless scalability and growth.

3. Unmatched Security

Security is a significant issue at the moment. Cybersecurity, in particular, is currently a menace for many small businesses. A minor lapse in your system can allow criminals to hack your business and make away with vital business documents or even customer information. If you’re lucky enough to keep your business alive after such hacks, you can rest assured of widespread public backlash and damaging legal battles.

Packaged software rarely come with sufficient security measures to protect businesses from hacks and cyber-attacks in general. Yes, a majority of these solutions allow you to update your software from time to time to seal loopholes that may lead to hacking.  However, is that enough? In this age where even multinationals like Amazon are being hacked, is updating your software sufficient? The answer is NO. Instead, you need solutions that are created with your specific vulnerabilities in mind; not general vulnerabilities, but your vulnerabilities. That’s where custom software solutions come in. These solutions are created to solve your specific problems and, therefore, are better suited to address any weak links in your security. 

4. Amazing Support and Maintenance

No software program is perfect. Even the iOS which is loved by millions is ridden with flaws that hackers have in the past exploited to steal information and money from users. Moreover, it’s not just bugged. Commerce software solutions come with several other issues ranging from difficulties in installation to failed upgrades and many others. When these issues arise, you need someone to help you fix the issues right away. Remember that the longer the problem remains unfixed, the more money and, possibly, customers you continue to lose.

The custom software gives you access to maintenance solutions and support in a way that packaged software can’t. With custom software, if you have a problem, you can directly call the development company, and they’ll be happy to send someone over to help fix the problem. Most of these companies even provide scheduled maintenance to ensure that the software is working optimally. This is a sharp contrast to packaged software providers whose support is unreliable at best.

5. Minimize Costs

Yes, the acquisition cost of custom software is higher compared to that of packaged, off-the-shelf solutions. However, over the life of the software, custom solutions come out on top. Not only will you spend less money on maintenance, but you will also spend less time fixing issues.

Additionally, since custom solutions are designed in line with your business needs, you won’t need endless training sessions to learn about or teach employees how to use the new software. This, again, means that time is saved which can be spent working on revenue-generating activities. Training costs are also saved.

Finally, packaged solutions don’t always work. It isn’t uncommon to purchase a solution and realize, one month down the line, that it’s not the right solution for your business. By this time, you’ll have lost money and time on that first solution. If this happens twice or thrice, it can seriously affect your bottom line. Custom solutions save you from this trouble. You only have the solution designed once, and that’s it.

Now, Take a Step Forward and Get Your Own Custom Software Solution Build

As you can see, your business is a lot better off with custom software development. The initial investment might be a little higher compared to packaged software solutions, but over time, the advantages become apparent. Besides, having a software solution that is built off the analysis and evaluation of your business is far much a blessing compared to one-fit-for all!

The post Streamlining Operations: 5 Ways Custom Software Boosts Efficiency appeared first on Konverge Digital Solutions.

If you are into Information and Technology sector, the realization of a paradigm shift from manual work to software should not be an element of surprise for you. There is a huge demand for software in every sector. From libraries to hospitals, from banks to schools, from gyms to petrol pumps, everyone is seeking software to simplify and perform their work with precision.

Although there is a huge demand, there is cut-throat competition too. Many established as well as emerging industries which are catering to all sorts of software solutions. If you are one of those and want to stand out from your competitors by delivering the software as early as possible and within the stipulated budget, read on for the ten most useful tips:

Validate all Requirements

Providing the client, the desired features in software is the ultimate aim of a software developer. A well-defined requirement list forms the basis of a well-structured software. Business requirement analysis forms the first and an essential step in the development of software. The requirements document defines the whole framework of the software. The requirement document is the go to page to assure that the software is being built on the correct lines. The requirements can be referred at every stage from defining the architecture to the final testing. Poorly gathered information can lead to the deviation of the software from the actual requirements.

Use Agile Development

The conventional approach to building software is the waterfall model, but the efficiency of the waterfall model is more often than doubted. The waterfall model is accused of being a model derived from different industries and is not very apt in the IT sector. However, lately, the agile development is more appreciated in IT sector. Being agile simply means running the development in cycles. The cycles include planning, development, and feedback. This approach helps to keep up with the project requirements and allows incremental growth and also makes it possible to meet the deadlines.

Divide The Project Plan Among Your Best Team

A motivated team can work wonders. Software development is no one man task, but it is also not a task that needs an army of men. While allocating tasks, one needs to be careful. The right functions should be handed to the right people. It is essential to know the strengths and weaknesses of your teammates before you task allocation. The tasks and the responsibilities need to be allotted based on the same. The team should have sufficient members so that the work is divided equally and everyone is accountable for their responsibilities. For resources, the responsibilities need to be prioritized and defined well. 

Outsource Generic Work to Keep the Cost Low

To achieve the work in stipulated timelines, the option of outsourcing the project as whole or parts of the project has worked like a wonder for some. Outsourcing work can be done to either compensate the resources unavailable at your end or to compensate the expertise. Before outsourcing, it is imperative to consult the vendors, get their quotes and decide on the most suitable one. While handing over the work, a clearly defined timeline and scope of work are like a mandate. Thus outsourcing can thus help in the completion of the project on time and even assist in cost reduction.

Have a flawless communication

There can always be a gap between the deliverables and the desired. This means that there is a communication gap between the stakeholders. Communication between all the stakeholders is a key to the smooth execution of the project. The stakeholders can be the customers, the project manager, the development team, the top executives and the vendors or the third parties involved. Everyone related to the project must be aware of the project details, the timelines and the scope of work. The progress report should be communicated to everyone involved in the project and in case of a problem or concern the right person should be approached. Written communication is always better than oral communication.

Keep Track of Progress

 It is essential to know where you are on the project work, whether the quality of the project is maintained, whether the timelines are well adhered to, and whether the project is oriented towards its final goal and that all the requirements are being fulfilled. It is required that the project managers keep asking these questions to himself and his team at the completion of every phase to make sure that all the answers point in towards the project being completed at the right time in excellent quality. If the answer is not in favor of the project, the problems can be considered, and the issues can be resolved there and then. 

Involve Clients in The Middle

Involving client at every step does more good than what is otherwise thought. Getting feedback time to time from the client helps to be on the same page as the client. When the client is in a continuous loop, the time invested in the corrections or changes to be made after the completion are saved. Informing the client on a regular basis also helps in building good relations and gaining the clients’ trust thus increasing credibility.

Avoid Requirement Creep (Scope creep)

Scope creep a project manager’s worst nightmare. Project creep refers to the changes, continuous or uncontrolled growth in a project’s scope after the project has begun. This is a more significant problem than it seems. Scope creep can hamper the timelines, increase the workload and also disturb the commercials. Scope creep the effect of flaws in the requirement definition. To avoid scope creep, it is vital that the first stage that is, the requirement gathering is done right, documented well, and approved by the client.

Frequently Test

Testing frequently is not just a notion to be put forward, it is instead a tried and tested formula to ensure timely delivery and in the stipulated budget. Testing frequently means that the flaws and loopholes are rectified there and then. Redoing a whole module for one mistake done initially involves enormous costs. To control the budget, frequent testing makes a huge difference.

Stay Organized

Moderating the complete work, identifying the mistakes and making sure that all the requirements are met in the given time frame is easier said than done. It is close to impossible to keep track of all the conversations between all the stakeholders and to keep up with the speed of the project by one person. To help the project development teams, there are many tools which take care of everything mentioned above. These tools generate daily reports and keep everyone on the same page and are important to stay organized.

Conclusion

In the age of software, where there are many of options available to everybody who wishes to build software, it is crucial for a software development team to make a mark. Many organizations deploy many cost reduction techniques that but with least consideration of quality. It is essential is that the project quality is not hampered in the whole process of cost reduction. The above-mentioned steps are sure to keep you on the right track and achieve your goals of acing the software delivery game!. At Konverge have helped many leading Canadian with software development. With over 25 years of experience in custom software development space. We are leading software development solution provider in Canada. Contact us to take to get a free consultation. 

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You may ask: Why should we study the worst patterns? The answer is much the same as why we study both the good and bad historical events in History class – we study the worst so that we may learn to avoid repeating past mistakes. So, it is just as important to study an Anti-pattern as it is to study a Pattern.
I would like to introduce the first Anti-pattern; the Power Code pattern. This was first coined by a colleague of mine who is a software consultant in Germany. The Power Code pattern falls in the redundancy class of anti-patterns. Power code is code that is repeated for no explicable reason other than to be annoying and repetitive. The reasoning for the name is quite simple: If you use the same statement enough times the computer has better retention and therefore the value gains more power.  The following code is an example of a Super-Nova of power code, real life power code does not usually exist to this extreme, but it does drive home the point:

Somefunction() {
  X = 3;
  dosomething();
  X = 3;
  if (true) {
    x = 3;
  } 
  else {
    x = 3;
  }
  X = 3;
}

From the above example we get it  “x must equal three”. I know what you are thinking … Nobody code like that! Well I hate to burst the bubble (actually not), but this sort of code pops up just about everywhere – I’m serious!

Now that I think back, we were already studying Anti-patterns and Patterns many years before the GOF got together and wrote their book. In the persute of perpetual improvement, I strongly suggest that programmers and designers alike, study Anti-Patterns with the same gusto as Patterns as we can learn as much from successes as we can from failures.

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