FAQs – Your questions answered
Everything you need to know about custom software development, from initial discovery through to deployment and ongoing support. Browse our most frequently asked questions below to learn about our process, pricing, timelines and the technologies we use to build platforms that scale with your business.
Why Custom Software Development?
Choosing custom software development over off-the-shelf solutions gives your business a platform built around your exact workflows, data requirements and growth plans. At Netgen, we have over 25 years of experience building tailored solutions across industries including finance, logistics, healthcare and eCommerce.
Our custom software development FAQs below cover the most common questions we receive from businesses evaluating their options. Whether you need a web application, mobile app, API integration or a full enterprise platform, these answers will help you understand our approach, typical timelines and what to expect from the development process.
Not sure where to start? The International Institute of Business Analysis recommends beginning with a structured discovery phase, which is exactly how we approach every project.
Custom Software Development FAQs — Before You Start
At Netgen, we believe informed decisions lead to better digital outcomes. Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions about custom software, mobile applications, and web development.
General questions
Our development process starts with business analysis, where we work closely with you to understand your requirements and objectives. This is followed by project planning, design, and the development of solutions. Once development is complete, the project moves into testing and quality assurance, followed by deployment, hosting, and integration with training where required. Ongoing maintenance and optimisation ensure your solution continues to perform and scale over time. Clients are involved throughout the process to ensure transparency and alignment at every stage.
Business analysis involves understanding your business processes, goals, and challenges before any development begins. It ensures the software solution is aligned with real business needs, not assumptions.
Without proper analysis, projects often run over budget or miss key requirements. Business analysis reduces risk by clearly defining scope, priorities, and success criteria upfront.
Yes. Business analysis is a collaborative process that includes stakeholder input, workshops, and regular feedback to ensure the solution reflects how your business actually operates.
Absolutely. Business analysis often identifies inefficiencies and improvement opportunities, even if no new system is built immediately.
Projects are managed using structured project management practices that focus on clear communication, milestones, timelines, and accountability. This ensures visibility and control throughout the project lifecycle.
Change is expected. Requests are assessed for impact on timeline and budget, then prioritised and agreed upon before implementation to avoid surprises.
Yes. Clients receive regular updates, progress reports, and access to agreed communication channels so there is full transparency throughout the project.
Potential risks are identified early, and corrective actions are discussed with the client to keep the project aligned with expectations wherever possible.
Testing ensures the software/mobile app/website works as expected, is secure, and performs reliably. It reduces the risk of defects, downtime, and costly fixes after launch.
Testing may include functional testing, performance testing, security testing, and user acceptance testing, depending on the project’s requirements.
Yes. All solutions undergo structured testing before deployment to ensure stability and usability.
Yes. User Acceptance Testing (UAT) allows clients to validate that the system meets their requirements before it goes live.
Ongoing maintenance includes updates, bug fixes, performance improvements, security patches, and compatibility updates to keep systems running smoothly.
While not mandatory, ongoing maintenance is strongly recommended to ensure security, performance, and long-term reliability.
Maintenance frequency depends on system complexity and usage, but regular updates help prevent issues and extend the software’s lifespan.
In many cases, yes. Existing systems can be reviewed, assessed, and supported once their structure and quality are understood.
Support services may include technical assistance, issue resolution, monitoring, and user support, depending on the agreed support plan.
We offer monthly hosting support to ensure your infrastructure remains secure, up to date, and performance-optimised.
We provide:
– Continuous server monitoring
– Security updates and patch management
– Performance tracking
– Backup verification
– Infrastructure optimisation
– Technical support and troubleshooting
Support requests are logged via our ticket system. then prioritised, and addressed according to agreed response times to ensure timely resolution.
Yes. Ongoing support agreements provide predictable support, faster response times, and peace of mind.
Issues are assessed and resolved as part of support or maintenance services to minimise downtime and business impact.
Custom software questions
Custom software development is the process of designing and building software tailored to your business’s specific needs, workflows, and goals, rather than adapting your business to off-the-shelf software. It allows for greater flexibility, scalability, and long-term cost efficiency.
If you’re using multiple tools that don’t integrate well, relying heavily on manual processes, or outgrowing off-the-shelf platforms, custom software is often the right solution. It’s especially valuable when your business processes are unique or mission-critical.
Custom software is built around your exact requirements, integrates with your existing systems, scales as your business grows, and avoids ongoing licence limitations. Over time, it often becomes more cost-effective than paying for multiple third-party tools.
Timelines vary depending on complexity, integrations, and features. Smaller systems may take a few weeks, while larger platforms can take several months. A discovery phase helps define scope and establish realistic timelines upfront.
Costs depend on scope, features, integrations, and long-term support requirements. While custom software typically has a higher upfront cost, it often reduces operational costs and increases efficiency over time. Most projects are scoped and priced after a discovery phase.
Custom software can be developed for a wide range of industries, including finance, logistics, healthcare, education, eCommerce, and professional services.
Yes. Ongoing support, updates, performance monitoring, and feature enhancements are available to ensure your software continues to perform optimally.
Getting started begins with a consultation to understand your business goals, challenges, and software requirements. From there, we propose a tailored solution and a clear roadmap.
Learn more
– Business analysis
– Project management
– Testing
– Maintenance
– Support
Web-based software runs in a browser and can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection. It’s ideal for businesses that need remote access, multi-user systems, or cross-device compatibility without installing software on individual machines.
Cloud-based software is hosted on remote servers rather than on-site infrastructure. This allows for better scalability, automatic updates, improved uptime, and reduced hardware costs, making it ideal for growing businesses.
Yes, when implemented correctly. Modern cloud platforms use encryption, access controls, backups, and monitoring. Security is often stronger than on-premise systems, provided best practices are followed during development and deployment.
One of the main advantages of cloud-based solutions is scalability. Resources can be adjusted as usage increases, ensuring consistent performance without needing a full rebuild.
An API (Application Programming Interface) allows different software systems to communicate with each other. APIs enable integrations between platforms such as websites, CRMs, payment gateways, accounting systems, and third-party services.
APIs allow your systems to share data automatically, reducing manual work, improving accuracy, and enabling better automation. They are essential for modern, connected software ecosystems.
Yes. Custom software can be designed to integrate with CRMs, ERPs, accounting platforms, payment gateways, and other third-party systems using APIs or secure data connections.
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An SQL database stores structured data in a way that allows fast querying, reporting, and secure data management. It’s commonly used for business applications that require reliable, relational data storage.
Data is stored using secure database systems with access controls, encryption, and regular backups. Best practices are applied to protect sensitive business and customer information.
Yes. Data migration is often part of custom software projects and includes careful planning, testing, and validation to ensure accuracy and minimal downtime.
SaaS (Software as a Service) is software delivered via the internet on a subscription or usage basis. Users access the system through a browser without installing or maintaining infrastructure.
Yes. Custom SaaS platforms can be developed with features like user management, billing, subscriptions, role-based access, and scalability for future growth.
A custom SaaS product gives you full control over features, pricing models, integrations, and user experience, without being limited by third-party platforms.
SaaS (Software as a Service) is software delivered via the internet on a subscription or usage basis. Users access the system through a browser without installing or maintaining infrastructure.
Not always. In many cases, legacy systems can be incrementally modernised, refactored, or migrated to newer technologies without a full rebuild.
Outdated systems can lead to security vulnerabilities, poor performance, limited integrations, and increased maintenance costs. Modernising reduces long-term risk and improves business agility.
Mobile app questions
We develop native apps for iOS and Android, cross-platform apps using frameworks like React Native, eCommerce apps, progressive web apps (PWAs), and custom mobile solutions tailored to your business needs.
App development timelines vary based on complexity, features, integrations, and design. Simple apps can take a few months, while complex apps with backend systems can take longer. A discovery phase helps define a realistic timeline.
Costs are based on scope, platform choice, backend requirements, integrations, and design complexity. After a discovery and requirements phase, we provide a clear proposal with an estimated budget and timeline.
Native apps are built specifically for iOS or Android and can deliver better performance and platform-specific features. Cross-platform solutions like React Native allow you to build one app that runs on both platforms with faster development and lower cost. The best choice depends on your project’s goals and priorities.
Getting started usually begins with a consultation to understand your business goals, target users, key features, and budget. From there, we define scope, timelines, and milestones.
Learn more
– Business analysis
– Project management
– Testing
– Maintenance
– Support
Android apps are designed for devices running Google’s operating system, while iOS apps are developed for Apple devices, such as iPhones and iPads. Each platform has its own set of development tools, design guidelines, and distribution requirements for its respective app stores.
If you choose native development, yes, separate builds are required.
With cross-platform development (e.g., React Native), one codebase can serve both platforms while still providing a high-quality user experience.
Yes, we can build apps for both platforms. With cross-platform frameworks like React Native, you can have a single codebase that works on both platforms, reducing development time and cost.
React Native is a cross-platform mobile development framework that enables you to build mobile apps using a single codebase. Apps built with React Native can run on both iOS and Android while delivering near-native performance.
React Native offers faster development, shared code between platforms, lower development cost, and a strong ecosystem. It’s a great option for many business apps especially when speed to market and cost effectiveness are important.
Yes – for many use cases. React Native delivers excellent performance for most business apps, and many well-known global apps use it successfully. However, highly specialised apps that require advanced device-specific features may sometimes benefit from native development.
An eCommerce mobile app allows customers to browse products, add to cart, checkout, and manage their accounts directly from their smartphones, providing a smoother shopping experience compared to mobile web browsing.
Yes. We can integrate your eCommerce app with platforms like WooCommerce, Shopify, or custom backends so that inventory, orders, and customer data are synchronised.
Yes. Mobile apps can integrate with payment gateways such as Stripe, PayFast, PayPal, and others that are supported in your region.
A progressive web app (PWA) is a web application that delivers an app-like experience through a browser. It can be installed on a device, loads quickly, works offline in some cases, and provides features like push notifications.
A PWA allows customers to access your service quickly without downloading a traditional app. It works across devices and browsers, improves performance on slower networks, and can boost engagement with features like offline access and notifications.
A customer loyalty app helps you reward repeat customers with points, discounts, digital punch cards, special offers, and personalised incentives – all within a branded mobile experience.
Loyalty apps increase repeat purchases, boost customer engagement, and help you gather valuable customer behaviour data for personalised marketing and retention strategies.
Yes, loyalty apps can be integrated with point of sale (POS) systems, CRM platforms, and email/SMS marketing tools to ensure consistent data and customer profiles across systems.
Yes, we assist with the full submission process, including compliance with Apple’s and Google’s guidelines, app store assets, and publishing.
Yes. We offer support and maintenance agreements to keep your app updated with new OS releases, performance improvements, security updates, and feature enhancements.
App updates can include bug fixes, new features, design improvements, and compatibility with new device versions. We help plan and deploy updates regularly based on your needs and user feedback.
Web development questions
We use WordPress to build the following types: brochure websites, database-driven web applications, and eCommerce websites. Each site is custom-designed to meet business goals, brand requirements, and scalability needs.
A brochure website focuses on presenting information such as services, company details, and contact information. Custom websites include advanced functionality like databases, user accounts, integrations, and dynamic content.
Websites are designed to suit your brand and business needs. Depending on requirements, we may use a customised WordPress template or build specific elements from scratch to ensure performance and flexibility.
Timelines depend on the size, complexity, and content readiness. Smaller brochure sites can be completed relatively quickly, while larger or more complex websites take longer due to design, development, and testing phases:
– Smaller websites: 1-2 weeks
– Medium websites: 2-3 weeks
– Larger, more complex websites: 4-6 weeks
Our detailed proposals will provide a timeline for development based on client requirements.
Costs depend on scope, features, integrations, and long-term support requirements. While custom software typically has a higher upfront cost, it often reduces operational costs and increases efficiency over time. Most projects are scoped and priced after a discovery phase.
Yes. Existing websites can be redesigned or optimised for performance, SEO, usability, and conversions.
Getting started usually begins with a consultation to understand your business goals, target users, key features, and budget. From there, we define scope, timelines, and milestones.
Learn more
– Business analysis
– Project management
– Testing
– Maintenance
– Support
WordPress is a flexible and widely supported content management system that allows easy content updates, strong SEO capabilities, and scalability for future growth.
Yes. WordPress allows you to manage pages, blog posts, images, and content without technical knowledge. Training or guidance can be provided if needed. If you’d prefer our team to handle updates on your behalf, we also offer support packages that can be used for ongoing content changes.
When properly configured and maintained, WordPress is secure. Security best practices include regular updates, secure hosting, backups, and monitoring.
Yes. Hosting services are available to ensure your website runs securely, reliably, and efficiently.
Hosting requirements depend on your website’s traffic levels, functionality, and performance needs. Solutions can be scaled as your website grows. We offer shared hosting options, and for larger or higher-traffic websites, we can provide dedicated server environments.
Yes. Our hosting and maintenance plans typically include regular backups, software updates, and ongoing monitoring to ensure reliability and uptime. We also provide a monthly Website Analytics & Performance report, allowing you to track how your website is performing over time.
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Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat.
After launch, support and maintenance services are available to keep your website updated, secure, and performing well.
Yes. Websites are built with SEO best practices in mind, including clean code, mobile responsiveness, fast loading times, and structured content.
SEO is a long-term strategy. While technical improvements can have immediate benefits, meaningful ranking improvements typically take time, depending on competition and content strategy.
Yes. All websites are designed to be mobile responsive, ensuring usability across smartphones, tablets, and desktops.
Mobile responsiveness improves user experience, SEO rankings, and conversion rates, as more users browse and engage on mobile devices.
We build eCommerce websites using platforms like WooCommerce or custom solutions, depending on your business needs.
Yes. eCommerce websites can integrate with payment gateways such as PayFast, PayPal, Stripe, and others.
Yes. eCommerce platforms allow you to manage products, pricing, orders, customers, and promotions through an admin interface.
Yes. Security measures include SSL certificates, secure payment processing, regular updates, and monitoring to protect customer data.
The best option depends on your business needs and goals. Shopify is ideal for businesses looking for a quick-to-launch, fully hosted eCommerce solution with minimal technical management.
WordPress (using WooCommerce) offers greater flexibility, customisation, and control, making it better suited for businesses that require tailored functionality, integrations, or long-term scalability. During the planning phase, we help assess which platform is the best fit for your requirements.
A database-driven website uses stored data to dynamically generate content, such as user dashboards, member areas, product listings, or reporting systems.
Yes. Websites can integrate with CRMs, payment gateways, APIs, third-party platforms, and internal business systems.
Get in touch with us today
Take a look at some of the solutions we’ve created for our clients and get in touch to find out what we can do for you.