Customized Software - Budgeting

After we have fully evaluated your requirements, we develop an outline of the project (concept of project) from which we can then calculate a more accurate cost for the project. This cost is still an estimate, but in order to protect the customer from uncontrollable costs, under most circumstances, we are able to incorporate a guaranteed maximum limit of 20% above the estimated cost, based on the original specification. In other words, if your project estimate is $40,000, it won't exceed $48,000. It's possible that the final project cost will be under the estimated amount, but since our clients always think of something to add or changes to be made, don't count on it. As a reminder, the limit guarantee is based on the original specification. Additions and changes to the specification will result in higher costs and obviously are not subject to the 20% maximum.

The concept of project is a somewhat detailed outline of the project and is created based on an extensive evaluation of the needs and requirements of the client. It is detailed to the point of providing a road map for continued development. The estimated time needed to complete the project is based on this outline. There will be an initial charge for the concept of project, which is payable in advance. This charge is based on the time required to gather the required information and then to prepare the actual concept of project. The cost is generally between $2,000 and $11,000, but can vary, depending on the expected scope of the project as determined by the initial summary analysis.

Prior to beginning actual development of the program, an initial down payment of 10% of the estimated amount is expected, and then payments are typically made every one or two weeks until project completion. The amount of these payments is based on the remaining estimated amount, and begin from the start of the design on paper stage through to the implementation stage.

You are likely wanting software developed for your company in order to save time and money on a task that is presently run inefficiently. On average, you should expect the custom built software to pay for itself in about a year. Of course, during that time, you will have the added benefit of the time savings plus enjoying any new benefits that your previous methods did not allow. After that time, you should benefit from the reduced expenses and/or increased revenue that the software helps to provide.

Note that you are not obligated to proceed to any stage. If you decide at any point that you wish to stop the process, you may do so. There will not be any money refunded, but you will not be obligated to further costs beyond what you have already paid and what is owed for any period since the last payment was made.

Summary