How long does it take to develop software?
Last updated: February 06, 2024 Read in fullscreen view
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On average, a software development timeline is 4-9 months. The size and complexity of the project are the biggest factors in its overall duration. A project is considered large or has a greater complexity if any of the following apply:
- Involves 25+ business flow screens (not take CRUD screens into account).
- Includes an administrative portal as well as a user application
- Includes 10+ MDM functions.
- Supports multiple platforms (web, tablet, phone, iOS, Android, Windows Phone)
- Integrates with multiple systems (security systems, payment gateways, CRM systems, ERP systems, HR systems, etc.)
- Involves data migration from an older system
- Has complex business logic
- Has complex reporting requirements
- Involves a data warehouse or data mart
| Type of Software | Requirements of Software | Timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Small business |
|
3 to 4 months |
| Mid-level business |
|
5 – 6 months |
| Enterprise business |
|
> 12 months |
The following are a few other factors that can impact software development timelines. Part of the job of a Project Manager is to monitor these types of risks so they can be identified early and mitigated to keep the project on track.
- Change of requirements or design after the project has started
- Delays when working with third -parties such as not receiving technical documentation, credentials to test systems, or support on technical questions
- Missing requirements or unclear system design
- Inconsistent direction from multiple stakeholders
- Working with new technologies
FAQ about timeline to build a software
How much does it cost to create software?
The average cost of developing custom software starts from $30,000. Certainly, the cost of software development depends on factors like the technology you choose, the framework (home-grown framework, the similar project or new open source?), complexity, features, platform (OS), type of software like SCM, ERP, and CRM, the hourly rate of developers, and UI/UX design, the physical location (onshore or offshore?) etc.
How long should software development process take?
Here are two common time frames to prepare for:
- MVP: To develop a minimum viable product from scratch, allocate a timeframe of at least three to nine months or more. If anybody proposes less than that, there is a risk of skipping essential phases. Namely, unscrupulous developers often sacrifice the research and testing phases.
- Web/Mobile App: For a functional web or mobile product with 10-plus features and a requirement for proper legal and safety measures in place (think healthcare, fintech and any other industry that handles personal data), the app development time estimation should start at the six-to-18 months range.
Which are the different models of software development?
According to Wikipedia, there are 10+ SDLC methodologies in software development. Here are the most important models.
- Agile methodology
- Waterfall methodology
- Validation and verification model (V Model)
- Scrum methodology
- Lean methodology
- Spiral methodology
How many are large business application implementation strategies?
- Big Bang
- Parallel adoption
- Hybrid
- Phased rollout
- ERP in a box
What is the average time for software development?
What are different phases of large business application implementation (i.e. ERP)?
- Pre-evaluation screening
- Package Evaluation
- Project Planning Phase
- Gap Analysis
- Re-engineering
- Customization
- Testing
- Cutover / Data Migration
- Gol-Live
- Post-Implementation
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