PT | EN | BR

Custom made software - what is it?

You've probably heard this term associated with services provided by technology companies. In this article we'll look at exactly what it consists of and what its advantages and disadvantages are.   The meaning Custom made softwa

16 June, 2019 webhouse.pt webhouse.pt webhouse.pt

You've probably heard this term associated with services provided by technology companies. In this article we'll look at exactly what it consists of and what its advantages and disadvantages are.

 

The meaning

Custom made software, as the name suggests, means developing customized software for a particular customer. The objective is to respond to a specific need, reason why, is developed from scratch. For example, a restaurant may have a need to manage the food stock and expiration dates. In this case the development of a software intended to make stock management, with the particularities necessary to this particular business, can be developed.

 

Advantages / disadvantages of custom software

The great advantage of custom software is that it is entirely designed to meet a particular need. The customer is thus able to have a final product that perfectly matches what he was looking for and responds perfectly to his needs.

As an alternative to the development of custom software, you can simply use an existing software that meets your needs at least in part. The great advantage of this approach is often the cost. Developing custom software is usually more expensive than using an existing software. In the first case, a programming team will develop software from scratch, while in the second case it is already developed and probably part or all of the production cost of the software is already paid.

The aspect referred above is also responsible, in part, for the variation in the cost of developing a website. If you prefer to develop a website from a template the costs tend to be lower when compared to develop an entire website from the scratch.

On the other hand, although more competitive in terms of costs, the use of software already developed, may not respond perfectly to the details and needs of the customer.

 

Choosing a Development Company

When you want to develop customized software, the first step you have to go through is the choice of the company that will develop the project. In this aspect there are several companies in the area in Portugal to provide this type of service. The ideal is to always ask for proposals from various software development companies, such as Web House, for example, and thus be able to compare between the various ones.

Keep in mind some key things:

  • Use of popular languages ​​/ technologies - you should try to use languages, ​​in the programming of your software, that are popular and had an extensive support historically. In this way they can guarantee their subsistence over time;
  • Monitoring during the development process - while the software is developed it is very useful for the company to closely meet with the Client. Only in this way the final work respond exactly to the client's needs and ambitions;
  • Long-term support - No software is an enclosed product. It is normal that, with the passage of time and more intensive use of it, it is necessary to make some corrections of  bugs and optimizations. So it is of utmost importance for the company to ensure long-term support of the software.

 

Conclusion

Custom software development can be a great way to meet a specific business need of a company. Through the programming of a customized software the company can have gains in efficiency and quality of its processes. Although development of custom software is often more costly than the use of software already developed, it can be rewarding in the long run.

The internet develops and renews itself in micro seconds, making today's truth, information out of date in minutes, hours or days. All information in this article is valid and current on the date of publication.

Recent Articles

Digital micro-communities: The golden strategy for customer loyalty

In a digital world saturated with information and fierce competition, brands face the challenge of establishing authentic and lasting connections with their customers. Digital micro-communities are emerging as an effective solution, allowing companies to cultivate deep and meaningful relationships with specific niche audiences. What are digital micro-communities? Digital micro-communities are small, segmented groups of individuals who share common interests, values or goals, interacting on digital platforms such as forums, social networking groups or messaging applications. These communities offer an environment conducive to building trust and loyalty between brands and consumers. Advantages of micro-communities for brands Authentic engagement: Interaction in micro-communities is more personal and meaningful, allowing brands to better understand their customers' needs and desires. Valuable feedback: Brands can gain direct insights into products, services and campaigns, facilitating continuous improvements and innovations in line with audience expectations. Customer loyalty: By actively participating in micro-communities, brands strengthen customer relationships, increasing the likelihood of repurchase and recommendation. How to create and manage digital micro-communities Identify your target audience: Understand who your ideal customers are and what their interests and needs are. Choose the right platform: Select platforms where your audience is already present and active, such as Facebook groups, Telegram channels or specialized forums. Offer relevant content: Share information, tips and news that add value to the community and encourage members to participate. Promote interaction: Stimulate discussions, run quizzes and create events that encourage member involvement and strengthen ties within the community. Monitor and adjust: Keep track of participation and satisfaction metrics, making adjustments as necessary to keep the community active and aligned with the brand's objectives. Examples of success with micro-communities Companies from various sectors have reaped the rewards of implementing digital micro-communities. For example, some cosmetics brands have created exclusive groups for loyal customers, where they share first-hand launches and receive direct feedback. In the technology sector, specialized forums allow users to exchange experiences and solutions, strengthening trust in the brand. Digital micro-communities represent a strategic opportunity for brands that want to build solid, lasting relationships with their customers. By fostering environments of authentic and personalized interaction, companies not only increase loyalty, but also turn customers into true brand advocates. At Webhouse, we understand the importance of customer-centric digital marketing strategies. If you want to exploit the potential of digital tools to build customer loyalty and boost your brand's growth, contact us.

Is this the end of the marketing funnel? How 4S behaviors are redefining consumer decisions

The consumer buying journey has evolved significantly in recent years. The traditional marketing funnel model, which followed a linear path from awareness to purchase decision, no longer reflects today's reality. Today, consumers interact with brands in a dynamic and multifaceted way, influenced by various digital touchpoints. Recent research by the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), highlighted by Think with Google, introduces the concept of 4S behaviors - Streaming, Scrolling, Search and Shopping - as central elements in the new dynamics of purchasing decisions. Understanding and adapting to these behaviors is essential for brands that want to remain relevant and effective in their marketing strategies. 1. Streaming: The continuous consumption of content Streaming transcends the simple act of watching videos or listening to music. It represents the continuous and personalized consumption of content on platforms such as YouTube, connected TV services and podcasts. This behavior allows consumers to discover new brands and products organically, through engaging and interactive content experiences. Recommended strategies: Develop sequential content that tells a story and maintains the audience's interest. Use personalization based on artificial intelligence to adapt content to individual preferences. Incorporate interactive elements that encourage active consumer participation. 2. Scrolling: Uninterrupted browsing Scrolling refers to consumers' continuous browsing of social media feeds, websites and other digital platforms. During this process, consumers are exposed to a variety of content that can influence their perceptions and purchasing decisions. Recommended strategies: Create impactful visual content that stands out amid the abundance of information. Maintain a consistent and authentic presence on social media to build trust and brand recognition. Use storytelling techniques to connect emotionally with the public. 3. Search: The search for information Online research continues to be a crucial stage in the purchasing journey. Consumers use search engines to obtain detailed information about products, compare options and read reviews from other users. Recommended strategies: Optimize website content for search engines (SEO), ensuring that relevant information is easily found. Provide clear and detailed product descriptions, including technical specifications and benefits. Encourage and highlight customer reviews and testimonials to reinforce credibility. 4. Shopping: The digital shopping experience The shopping stage has become more complex, with consumers expecting fluid, personalized and secure shopping experiences. Convenience and trust are determining factors in the final decision. Recommended strategies: Offer an omnichannel shopping experience, integrating physical and digital stores. Implement secure payment systems and flexible delivery options. Use consumer behavior data to personalize offers and recommendations. The consumer's purchasing journey is now characterized by continuous and multifaceted interaction with brands, influenced by 4S behaviors. To remain competitive, companies must understand and adapt to these new dynamics, offering personalized and engaging experiences at every point of contact. At Webhouse, we are prepared to help your brand navigate this new consumer scenario. With digital marketing strategies adapted to new consumer behaviors, we can boost your online presence and strengthen your connection with your target audience. Contact us to develop effective campaigns that meet the demands of the modern consumer. Source: thinkwithgoogle.com+1thinkwithgoogle.com+1

Influencer Marketing: The power of micro- and nano-influencers to connect with the public

Influencer marketing has been transforming in recent years, and this year we have seen a significant shift in focus for brands. Whereas previously big influencers dominated campaigns, now micro- and nano-influencers are gaining prominence - for their ability to create authentic and meaningful connections with specific audiences. What are micro- and nano-influencers? Micro-influencers are content creators with an audience of between 10,000 and 100,000 followers, while nano-influencers have fewer than 10,000 followers. Despite having smaller audiences, these influencers have higher engagement rates, due to the closeness and trust they establish with their followers. Why should you bet on micro and nano influencers? Authenticity and trust: These influencers are seen as more authentic, which increases the credibility of the recommendations they make. Precise targeting: They allow you to reach specific market niches, making campaigns more effective. Cost-effectiveness: Partnerships with micro- and nano-influencers are generally more affordable, allowing brands with smaller budgets to also benefit from influencer marketing. Influencer marketing trends According to Marketeer, user-generated content and partnerships with micro- and nano-influencers dominate marketing strategies. Brands are increasingly working with these influencers due to their higher engagement rates and the more personal and trusting connection they have with their followers. How to integrate micro- and nano-influencers into your strategy Identify influencers aligned with your brand: Look for content creators whose values and audience match those of your brand. Establish long-term partnerships: Long-lasting relationships allow for a more natural integration of the brand into the influencer's content. Give creative freedom: Allow influencers to create authentic content that resonates with your audience. Measure the results: Use analysis tools to track campaign performance and adjust strategies as necessary. Influencer marketing is evolving, and micro- and nano-influencers are becoming key players in building authentic connections with audiences. By integrating these influencers into their strategy, brands can reach specific audiences more effectively and with a greater return on investment. At Webhouse, we understand the importance of digital marketing strategies adapted to current trends. If you're looking to boost your brand through partnerships with micro- and nano-influencers, contact us. We'll help you create effective campaigns that really connect you with your target audience. Sources: Marketeer, APANECO    

Automatic translation: Another new feature in Instagram direct messages

Instagram has announced a new feature that could transform the way businesses interact with customers in different parts of the world: automatic translation of direct messages (DMs). With this feature, it's possible to communicate with anyone, regardless of language, without using external applications. But what does this mean for anyone who runs a business and uses Instagram as a communication channel? Let's explore the impact of this new feature! How does message translation work on Instagram? The new feature allows you to translate incoming and outgoing messages directly in the conversation. To do this, simply press on the desired message and tap on “Translate”. The translated version appears just below the original message, making it easier to understand and speeding up the conversation. The impact for businesses This new feature brings several benefits for companies that use Instagram as a service and sales channel: 1. Opening up to international markets With the language barrier reduced, it is possible to interact more fluidly with foreign customers, broadening the audience and creating new business opportunities. 2. more agile and effective customer service Instead of wasting time copying and pasting texts into online translators, companies can respond directly in conversation, improving the customer experience and reducing response times. 3. greater proximity and personalization When customers can communicate in their own language, they feel more comfortable and confident, increasing the chances of conversion and loyalty. Opportunity for brands that want to grow Instagram DMs are a powerful communication and sales tool. With this new feature, businesses have the opportunity to expand their audience without geographical or linguistic limitations. How can we make the most of this? To maximize results, it's important for companies to pay attention to some good practices: Respond quickly: speedy service is essential to guarantee customer satisfaction. Personalize responses: even with translation, maintain an authentic and approachable tone. Monitor the accuracy of translations: automatic tools can be flawed, so always review the context of the conversation. The new translation feature in Instagram DMs is a great advantage for online businesses. By allowing interaction in multiple languages without additional effort, this tool facilitates expansion into new markets and improves the customer experience. Want to improve your business's digital strategy? To maximize sales and communication on Instagram, having a well-structured strategy makes all the difference. At Webhouse, we help companies optimize their digital presence and maximize results. Get in touch and find out how to take your business to the next level!

Community Notes: Instagram's new feature to combat disinformation

Instagram recently announced a new feature that promises to bring more context and transparency to social media posts: Community Notes. With this feature, users will be able to add short explanations to content that may be considered confusing or inaccurate. Community Notes come as a reinforcement to content moderation, allowing the community itself to help contextualize posts and avoid the spread of misleading information. But how does this new tool work and what is its impact on users and companies? Let's explore! How do Community Notes work? The feature will allow users to add explanatory notes of up to 500 characters to posts they consider potentially misleading or confusing. In addition, it will be possible to include links to reliable sources, helping to clarify the information shared. The great thing about this system is that the relevance of the notes will not be defined by internal Instagram teams or third-party fact-checkers. Instead, the community itself will evaluate and determine the usefulness of each note, making the process more collaborative and decentralized. The notes will be able to appear in public content on Instagram, Facebook and Threads, ensuring that the tool has a wide reach within the Meta ecosystem. The impact of Community Notes for users and businesses The introduction of Community Notes could have a significant impact on the way users consume and interact with content on social networks. For businesses and content creators, it is essential to understand the implications of this new feature. 1. Greater transparency in information The feature will allow the public to have access to additional context before trusting or sharing a publication. This can help reduce the spread of misinformation and ensure that brands and businesses position themselves more credibly in the digital world. 2. Risk of inadequate contextualization A concern for companies and content creators is the possibility of receiving ratings with erroneous or biased information. As the ratings are assessed by the users themselves, there may be cases where information is misinterpreted. It will therefore be important to monitor and respond to notes that could have a negative impact on a brand's reputation. 3. Impact on organic reach If a publication receives ratings that are considered relevant and useful by the community, it could increase its visibility. However, if a piece of content is flagged several times with critical notes, it could have an impact on reach and engagement. How to adapt to this new reality? With the introduction of Community Notes, brands and content creators must adopt good practices to ensure that their publications do not generate doubts or ambiguous interpretations. Some essential tips include: Always check the credibility of information before publishing it; Use reliable sources to support informative content; Closely monitor audience interactions and respond to possible queries; Monitor the grades received and, if necessary, report unfair or incorrect assessments. The Community Notes feature represents an important step towards transparency and quality of information on social networks. By allowing users themselves to add context to posts, Instagram gives the community more power to combat misinformation. For businesses and content creators, adapting to this new reality will be essential to maintaining a strong and reliable digital presence. Do you want to keep up to date with what's new in the digital world? Follow Webhouse on social media and stay on top of the main trends and tools that can impact your business!
2025 Webhouse.pt | All Rights Reserved.
Privacy Policy | Conflict resolution | Cookies Policy
Complaint book
Created with  by Webhouse.pt
I accept
This website uses cookies to offer you a more personalized experience. While continuing navigation, you are agreeing to its use. Saiba mais
Contacto no WhatsApp
Contacto no Messenger