Custom software
Custom software or off-the-shelf: which suits a small business?
Start with off-the-shelf software and check it against what you actually need.
Tell us about your business and what you need.
The short answer
In short.
If an existing product handles the job, it is usually quicker and cheaper. Custom software is worth considering when an important part of how you work is still unsupported, or when the real problem is information being copied by hand between tools. Write the requirements down first, then compare.
Write down the job
How does the work happen today, who does it, and which records are involved? A clear process makes any software easier to choose.
Check existing products
Look at features, limits, subscription costs and whether you can get your data out. Many small business needs are already well served.
When custom makes sense
When an important part of the process is not supported by anything available, when several tools almost fit but none does the key step, or when a customer portal or internal system needs to work your way.
Connecting, not replacing
Sometimes the useful work is connecting two tools you already use, so information moves between them without copying.
What to own
With custom software, the code, your data and the accounts it runs in should be in your business's name, with documentation another developer can pick up.
Plan for upkeep
Custom software needs looking after. Agree support and how future changes will be priced before you commit.
Protect the data
Whichever way you go, consider what personal information the tool holds. The Office of the Australian Information Commissioner has guidance for small businesses on handling it.
Custom software development versus off-the-shelf solutions
Off-the-shelf software is built once and sold to many businesses: a CRM, an accounting package, a booking system. You pay a subscription, you get updates, and the vendor carries the cost of development and security. Custom software is built for one business, so it fits exactly how you work, but you pay for the development and for keeping it running.
Integration often beats a full custom build
Many small businesses do not need either extreme. Connecting the software solutions you already use, so your CRM, booking system and accounts share data, often solves the real problem for a fraction of the cost of custom software development. Ask for that option in any quote before committing to a full build.
From clients
What clients say about working with spareday
“I now have a custom dashboard that lets me track exactly what my competitors are doing, spot viral content trends in real time, and script high-performing content ideas on demand. The difference has been night and day. I’m no longer guessing.”
“He created a stunning website for us that captures and nurtures leads with an automated email marketing system, which has filled a huge gap in the business and saved a lot of time (and money!).”
“Excellent in all facets of web design with particular expertise in SEO and email marketing. Online visibility has skyrocketed since working Reece which translates as flawless customer relations, new leads and new customers.”
Official guidance
For independent guidance, see the Australian Cyber Security Centre.
Common questions
Questions people ask.
Who owns custom software once it is built?
With spareday, you do: the code, your data and the accounts it runs in are set up in your business's name, with documentation.
How long does a custom build take?
It depends on the scope, connections and testing. The proposal sets out an estimated schedule and what it depends on.
Who you’ll work with
Hi, I’m Reece.
spareday is my business, based here in Newcastle. You’ll deal with me from the first review of your website, and I’m the person you talk to each month about what’s working.
Find us
spareday in Newcastle.
12 Grey Street, Wickham, Newcastle NSW 2293.
Next step
Get a free growth plan.
As a software company in Newcastle, spareday starts by understanding how the job happens and checking what your current software can already do. The proposal explains what needs building and how you will check it works. Get a free growth plan.
Or call 0485 017 387.