Creating software from scratch has become more common as computing technology advances and organizations grow more complex. Artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and other types of automation have spurred many software development companies to consider more tailored solutions to meet the rapidly changing demands of their users and clients. And in today’s hyper-connected, digital-first landscape, businesses and organizations are seeking ways to differentiate themselves, optimize operations, and deliver meaningful user experiences.

Off-the-shelf software solutions often serve as good starting points, but they may not always address the nuanced and evolving needs of modern organizations. That’s where custom software development and engineering come into play.

Custom software engineering is the process of developing, deploying, and maintaining software solutions that are catered to meet the specific needs of businesses and users. Unlike generic applications, custom software solutions are purpose built, providing users with greater flexibility, efficiency, and competitive advantage.

This blog examines custom software engineering and why it matters. Read on to find out more and to learn how WGU’s software engineering degree programs serve as reliable pathways to industry careers.

Defining Custom Software Engineering Methodologies

At the heart of custom software engineering lie distinct methodologies that help guide development processes, which are tuned and adapted as needed. Below are some common systematic approaches that distinguish custom software development from general development.

• Agile. This methodology emphasizes strong interactivity between software developers, fast software delivery times, and a malleable approach to project work.Scrum. Similar to
• Agile, Scrum encourages parsing up long-term work into short, incremental sprints.
• Waterfall. Adhering to this model means developing software in a linear sequence and keeping projects highly structured.
• Prototyping. Sometimes, software development companies prefer to build a “rough-draft” version of a product for testing before committing to a full development process.

Advantages of Custom Software Engineering

Perfect Fit

Off-the-shelf software is designed to be used by the masses. While it offers plenty of basic functions, it often includes features that users don’t need and may lack the ones they do. Custom software is created with a unique understanding of clients’ business requirements, resulting in a solution that fits their workflows.

Scalability and Flexibility

In many cases, custom software can nimbly adjust to user goals and objectives. Whether an organization is increasing operational capacity, integrating new automation tools, or entering new markets, custom software can adapt without the need for expensive or time-consuming system overhauls.

Enhanced Integration

Many businesses rely on a strategic combination of tools and platforms. Custom software is able to seamlessly integrate with existing systems, ensuring data and analytics consistency and streamlining operations.

Cost Efficiency

While the upfront cost of custom software may be higher, it often leads to savings in the long run. Custom software development services free users from paying licensing fees and eliminate the costs associated with platform inefficiencies and mismatched tools.

Competitive Advantage

When it comes to competition in the industry, custom software enables businesses to implement proprietary features and processes that cannot be easily replicated. This kind of software becomes a strategic asset that fosters differentiation and innovation.

The Custom Software Engineering Process

Building a custom software solution involves much more than merely writing code. It’s a thoughtful, highly collaborative process that includes multiple phases, each of which is detailed below.

Discovery and Requirements Gathering

The process begins with a deep dive into a client business. Developers, stakeholders, and end users work together to understand goals, pain points, existing infrastructure, and desired outcomes. Clear and well-documented requirements form a strong foundation for the project.

Design and Prototyping

Based on the requirements, the following design phase involves creating system architectures, UI and UX assets, and other technical specifications. Prototyping tools can help visualize the desired software product or service early on, allowing stakeholders to provide feedback before full development begins.

Development and Iteration

The development process spans many essential goalposts. Some organizations might focus on agile methodologies—where development is broken into discrete sprints—while others may adopt a more continuous or gradual project management style. Sprints allow for incremental progress and frequent feedback, while longer approaches provide more predictability and stability. In any case, software developers write and debug code and build out specific features based on the needs of the project.

Testing and Quality Assurance

Adequate user testing is critical to ensure functionality, performance, and security. Quality assurance (QA) specialists conduct unit tests, integration tests, system tests, and user acceptance testing (UAT) to catch bugs and optimize usability.

Deployment and Integration

After software is tested, it moves on to deployment in a production environment. Software developers and engineers manage infrastructure provisioning, system configuration, and integrations with existing tools. Smooth deployment helps to minimize downtime and ensure continuity.

Maintenance and Support

Custom software development services require ongoing support to fix bugs, roll out updates, and adapt to changing requirements. A long-term relationship between developers and their clients ensures that software delivers value over time.

Pursuing Custom Software Engineering

Constant demand for software engineers means that there are plenty of career paths and opportunities for aspiring software professionals. Custom software engineering has a place in subfields like front-end and back-end development, mobile development, video game development, cloud engineering, data engineering, and more. Many of WGU’s technology degree programs offer a strong foundation for individuals in these roles.

Additionally, the potential for career growth and upskilling for different kinds of software developers and engineers remains promising.

Essential Skills and Qualifications

Successful custom software engineers and developers possess a balanced set of technical and soft skills that allow them to deliver effective products and services. These skills include:

• Proficiency in programming languages like JavaScript, Python, and C++
• Knowledge of frameworks and libraries like React, Angular, and Django
• Debugging and software troubleshooting skills
• Understanding of UX, UI, and user testing best practices
• Problem-solving and critical thinking
• Communication and collaboration
• Project management

Industry Growth and Advancement

Software developers and engineers—including those involved with building custom software solutions—enjoy competitive salaries and healthy employment outlooks. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average annual salary for software developers in May 2023 was $132,270. Overall employment of software developers is projected to grow by 17% from 2023 to 2033, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Custom Software Engineering

Custom software engineering empowers businesses and organizations to address complex challenges, drive technological innovation, and gain a strategic edge in their respective industries. It requires a keen understanding of user needs, robust technical expertise, and strong collaboration skills. And while custom software might demand a higher upfront investment than off-the-shelf software, its myriad long-term benefits make it a worthwhile consideration for many organizations.

But how can you be prepared to thrive in the world of custom software engineering?

Consider WGU. WGU’s flexible, online degree programs—including master’s degrees in software engineering and computer science—are designed with input from subject matter experts to prepare students for the future of custom software development. Plus, WGU’s competency-based learning model means that you advance through coursework as quickly as you master the material, potentially saving you time and money.

Learn more today.