Software Development

Business computer software is developed by understanding and capturing knowledge of how a business operates. This knowledge is then used to either configuring existing software or to write bespoke applications to meet the requirements. Village Software Engineering Limited will take a project through the complete lifecycle from Feasibility to Implementation and Maintenance.

Bespoke Software

There are two key approaches to providing an IT solution to a business problem. The first is to buy in a software package and configure and modify it to meet the requirements of your business. If there is a suitable package available this is usually the best solution. The second approach is to have a piece of software written that exactly meets the business requirements. Before deciding on the appropriate solution an understanding should be developed of what the requirements are (Village can provide consultancy to do this if required). If no suitably priced software is available that can be configured for a company's needs, if complete control of business process is necessary or if a process is key to the competitive edge of a company then a bespoke development is required. Bespoke development passes through 6 broad stages these are summarised below. Each project varies of course and an client may carry out some of the stages in house.

1. Feasibility

The outline of the project is considered to determine if it is operationally, technically and financially feasible.

2. System Analysis

The current operation of the organisation and existing software is examined. A system is designed involving new software and possibly new working practices.

3. System Development

Programming and development of the system takes place

4. Implementation

Existing data is transferred into the new system, personnel are trained, the system is installed and pilot programmes run.

5. Maintenance

New problems with the system are fixed, enhancements and changes are made, the system is adapted to run on new operating systems.