Intellectsoft Blog https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog Mon, 22 Jul 2024 15:16:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.5 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/wp-content/uploads/cropped-favicon-1-32x32.png Intellectsoft Blog https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog 32 32 Intellectsoft Quarter Updates: Intellectsoft’s Journey with CEO Olga Kavunenko https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/intellectsoft-quarter-updates-intellectsofts-journey-with-ceo-olga-kavunenko/ Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:57:22 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27750 Are you excited for some thrilling news from Intellectsoft? We’re set on a transformative journey filled with fruitful partnerships and remarkable growth—don’t miss out on...

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Are you excited for some thrilling news from Intellectsoft? We’re set on a transformative journey filled with fruitful partnerships and remarkable growth—don’t miss out on the details! In this update, you’ll find our latest developments under new leadership, insights into generative AI, and a case study highlighting how this technology has empowered a client to simplify content discovery and enhance engagement. Keep scrolling down to see it in action!

Leading the way

In early 2024, Olga Kavunenko took on the role of CEO at Intellectsoft. Olga’s strategic focus on service quality, customer excellence, and innovation is driving our global expansion, ushering the company into a new era of growth and synergy.

Here’s a snapshot of our recent achievements and advancements.

Intellectsoft’s Key Updates

  • Global Expansion to LatAm and APAC: Intellectsoft has successfully launched operations in Bogota, Colombia, and Baku, Azerbaijan. Our new offices are set to tap into these promising markets, broadening our reach and enhancing our capability to serve clients worldwide.
  • Client Retention at 96%: Our dedication to client satisfaction has resulted in an impressive client retention rate of 96%. 
  • Our New Clients: We are honored to become a tech partner to several new clients:

University of North Carolina: Intellectsoft is designing a comprehensive search portal for a prestigious US university. The portal will enable users to find higher education opportunities with advanced filters.

Australian Entertainment Company: We partnered with an entertainment company to create a state-of-the-art mobile app for their Canadian market expansion. (under NDA)

IT Startup: Our team is developing user-friendly interfaces for AI-powered automated testing systems for an IT startup. (under NDA)

  • Recognized Excellence: Intellectsoft is recognized as a leader in custom software development and has earned a spot on the “Global Outsourcing 100” list. 

Generative AI Spotlight

Intellectsoft implements AI banner

Recent trends show that generative AI extends beyond creating text, images, and sounds; it can also streamline certain software development tasks. Yevhen Kulnichenko, our Chief Engineering Officer, shares his insights on how this technology can enhance workflows.

Intellectsoft continues to experiment with generative AI and has noted several advantages, including speeding up and simplifying day-to-day tasks. 

Yevhen noted that while ChatGPT is impressive in many ways, it’s best used alongside human expertise. It boosts productivity by quickly identifying basic issues and reusable patterns but isn’t yet capable of handling complex logic or detailed requirements. A collaboration between AI and human experts ensures the highest quality output.

Looking ahead, Yevhen expects advancements in tools like ChatGPT, especially in how they integrate with traditional software development tools.

According to Gartner, 37% of organizations have already implemented AI. GitHub Octoverse reports that 63% of developers are using AI or machine learning in their work. This widespread adoption shows how AI is significantly improving development processes. 

We have prepared an article, “Generative AI Explained: What It Means for Your Business,” where we explain in detail how businesses are using generative AI.

Intellectsoft’s case study: AI-Enhanced Content Aggregator Platform

Discover how we integrated a ChatGPT-driven search into Skroote, a content aggregator platform. This enhancement provides better results, viewing options, episode listings, cast details, and trailers for our client. Read the full case study.

Looking Ahead

Intellectsoft is entering an exciting new phase with our new CEO, Olga Kavunenko, at the helm. Our global expansion and high client satisfaction rates underscore our unwavering commitment to excellence. 

By leveraging generative AI and other advanced technologies, we continue to transform our clients’ businesses and enhance software development processes. As we look to the future, we are enthusiastic about the opportunities ahead and remain dedicated to delivering top-tier solutions on a global scale.

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Guide to Healthcare CRM Development in 2024 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/healthcare-crm-development/ Tue, 16 Jul 2024 16:03:30 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27722 According to recent statistics, the global healthcare CRM market is currently valued at $17.9 billion but is expected to gain $30.7 billion by 2030. One...

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According to recent statistics, the global healthcare CRM market is currently valued at $17.9 billion but is expected to gain $30.7 billion by 2030. One of the reasons for this rapid growth rate is the increasing demand for easily accessible data, as well as the increasingly streamlined business processes across multiple sectors, including healthcare.

Healthcare customer relationship management (CRM) solutions allow medical organizations to improve their overall performance. They do this by creating quantifiable relationships between providers, patients, team members, and client referrals. This translates into healthcare businesses enjoying reduced costs, an improved client experience, as well as optimized medical services.

In this blog, we will delve into the basics of healthcare CRM development, including its features and key benefits. We’ll also take a closer look at the healthcare CRM development process at large.

Healthcare CRM Market Overview

The rising demand for structured data and automation in healthcare is expected to continue fueling market growth. It is currently slated at a compound annual growth rate  (CAGR) of 7.7%. You can see the effects of this in the increase in technological advancements in the sector. Features like AI integration in CRM solutions continue to be introduced in an effort to further improve software effectiveness and drive much wider adoption and digitalization. Another factor to take into account is the increasing awareness of the need to improve customer experience across all industries, including healthcare — further fueling the adoption of CRM in healthcare.

healthcare crm guide

Overall, the CRM market continues to see increased growth and innovation. Some notable milestones include Salesforce’s introduction of next-generation Einstein AI that incorporates conversational AI into CRM and customer experience.

Current CRM market growth is also fueled by merger and acquisition (M&A) activity, although only at a moderate level. Overall, the healthcare industry has also seen a significant increase in region-specific regulatory activities like the General Data Protection and Regulation (GDPR) in the European Union and HIPAA Rule in the United States. These regulations impose strict data storage, collection, and distribution policies, which all CRM solution providers need to comply with.

healthcare crm development

What is a CRM in Healthcare?

Healthcare CRM systems are designed to help you automate tedious and repetitive administrative tasks such as appointment scheduling and check-up reminders, giving your healthcare facility staff more time to focus on patient care and business-critical activities. CRM software is also instrumental in bettering coordination among healthcare teams and allowing for better collaboration and information sharing. This, in turn, leads to better outcomes and higher levels of patient satisfaction.

When it comes to development, designing healthcare CRM systems involves implementing software solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of certain medical institutions. This involves creating software that can track medical histories, manage appointments, streamline patient interactions, and enhance overall patient satisfaction, among others. If you are a medical service provider, CRM systems also offer a centralized platform to efficiently handle patient data, appointments, and communications.

Healthcare CRM software seeks to improve your patients’ experiences through a variety of features such as appointment push notifications, recording conversations, or even determining patients’ preferred locations and appointment times. CRMs can also automate and personalize ad campaigns to reach your patients and clients with personalized communications. These can be anything from birthday cards to customized emails about follow-up checkups or medication reminders. The software can also manage referrals. It does this by storing information about specialists, facilities, and the like — enabling easy patient referrals to the appropriate people.

Common Types of Healthcare CRM

There are several types of healthcare CRM software that play a crucial role in enhancing patient care, streamlining administrative processes, and improving overall healthcare management.

Patient Relationship Management CRM

This type of CRM solution is designed to improve interactions between healthcare providers and patients. It helps teams manage patient appointments, deliver prompt communications, and strengthen engagement in collaboration with physicians.

Analytics Healthcare CRM

These CRM solutions use patient data to enhance your decision-making and improve healthcare outcomes. By using information from multiple sources, like electronic health records (EHRs), analytical CRM systems enable you to gain valuable insights into patient populations, treatment effectiveness, and resource utilization.

Referral Management Type CRM

Referral Management CRM solutions are crafted to streamline the referral process within healthcare networks. These systems help you successfully manage operations, efficiently track and handle patient referrals, and ensure seamless communication between referring and receiving physicians.

Clinical Custom Healthcare CRM

Clinical healthcare CRM solutions are designed to help healthcare professionals in managing and organizing clinical workflows. These are often integrated with EHRs during healthcare CRM development and assist with tasks such as documentation, care coordination, and treatment planning.

Steps to Build a Successful Healthcare CRM Software

While every healthcare CRM development team’s process will vary, these are the general steps you can follow when building healthcare CRM software:

Hiring a Technical Partner

Before starting the development of healthcare CRM software, the first step is to partner with a reliable software development company. In order to find the right custom healthcare CRM development partner, you need to consider the potential provider’s expertise in the healthcare field. Ensure you review the potential technical provider’s portfolio. Look into past medical projects and the technology stacks they used, as well as read client feedback about them on professional platforms.

Project Requirements Analysis

During this phase, business analysts will examine your product concept, business objectives, target audience, as well as your intended market. They will then create a detailed project specification plan encompassing all the aspects of healthcare CRM development, including features, security requirements, third-party services, and the technological stack.

UI/UX Design and Prototyping

During this stage, the design team defines key user scenarios, such as patient segmentation and reporting, to visualize core functionalities. Since the focus is enhancing the user journey within the CRM system, it is always helpful to adhere to specific principles, such as visualizing the user journey from the end user’s perspective and assessing user preferences to create intuitive interfaces. It is also helpful to group related functions to enable single-click access in order to eliminate redundant elements and enhance interactions between the CRM and the user.

Development, Integrations, and Testing

This stage is where software engineers build the backend and front end of a CRM platform and integrate APIs in order to facilitate data sharing with third-party apps. Once the healthcare CRM software development process is complete, it should be seamlessly integrated with other business solutions to streamline operations and enhance profitability.

Next, the testing experts will conduct a series of manual and automated tests to ensure that the CRM meets functional requirements. This is also where any operational flaws are resolved before going live. Another crucial role of this stage is to assess the system’s readiness for deployment, as well as its compliance with key security and regulatory standards.

Testing is very important to ensure that there are no flaws in the system and that everything is debugged before release.

Before the final client review, the team will also thoroughly verify all functionalities—including integrations, usability, and security—to ensure that the healthcare CRM software performs as intended and meets your project’s specifications.

Launch and Maintenance

After completing all previous stages of healthcare CRM development, the CRM solution can now be delivered to you for testing and feedback. Based on the results of the testing and all the information collected, necessary modifications can then be made.

Given the complexity of CRM in the healthcare industry, multi-tier support is often required. This means you should continue to collaborate with a dedicated healthcare CRM development team for long-term value creation. Regular verification of system security and standards compliance is also an essential requirement.

 

Key Features of Healthcare CRM Systems

Some of the core features of healthcare CRM systems that you should integrate into healthcare CRM development are as follows:

Patient Management

This functionality includes healthcare CRM features that organize and store patient demographics, medical histories, and contact information in one centralized database. This functionality also streamlines administrative tasks such as patient registration and record retrieval, ensuring that you have seamless access to essential patient data during appointments and consultations.

Task Management

The task management feature helps your healthcare team by assigning, prioritizing, and tracking tasks related to patient care, administrative duties, and follow-up activities. With features like deadline reminders, task delegation, and progress tracking, critical tasks are never overlooked by your team— ensuring that patient care in your medical facility consistently remains the top priority.

Appointment Scheduling

Effective appointment scheduling capabilities allow you to efficiently manage patient appointments, allocate resources, and minimize scheduling conflicts. Advanced features could include automated appointment reminders, waitlist management, and synchronization with provider calendars.

Communication Tools

Healthcare CRM systems also offer functionalities that ensure secure and efficient communication among patients, healthcare providers, and staff. Think of secure messaging platforms, telehealth/telemedicine capabilities, and patient portals.

Such portals enable patients to access medical records and appointment requests and allows them to directly communicate with healthcare teams. By enabling such seamless interactions, you can enhance your patients’ engagement, improve care coordination, and strengthen patient-provider relationships.

Analytics and Reporting Tools

Analytical tools empower your healthcare organization to harness data insights for strategic decision-making, performance monitoring, and quality improvement initiatives. You can also create customizable reports, analyze key performance indicators (KPIs), and identify trends in patient outcomes, resource utilization, and operational efficiency.

These functionalities provide you with actionable insights and enable you to pinpoint areas for improvement, optimize workflows, and elevate the overall quality of care your facility provides.

Seamless Integration Capabilities

Seamless integration is incredibly crucial when connecting healthcare CRM systems with other software applications. We’re talking about vital tasks such as healthcare EMR integration, billing systems, and the incorporation of third-party tools. Such robust integration capabilities are crucial in ensuring interoperability, efficient data exchange, and consistency across diverse platforms. Seamless integration also fosters a unified healthcare management ecosystem.

 

Benefits of CRM in Healthcare Industry

As a healthcare organization, you can use CRM systems to better understand your clients and streamline daily operations. Here are some benefits of CRM software for healthcare industry:

Enhancing Patient Experience with CRM Software in Healthcare

CRM software development in the healthcare sector vastly improves patient experience by enabling personalized interactions, efficient communication, and seamless care delivery. With tools like patient portals, appointment scheduling systems, and secure messaging platforms — CRM empowers your patients to engage more actively in their healthcare journey, resulting in their higher satisfaction and better adherence to treatment plans.

Healthcare CRM tools will also help you facilitate proactive patient outreach, including appointment reminders and follow-up communications. This, in turn, makes your patients feel valued and supported throughout their healthcare interactions. This comprehensive approach ultimately boosts overall patient satisfaction and loyalty to your medical facility.

Reducing Medical Errors

Healthcare CRM systems play a vital role in reducing medical errors by granting healthcare providers access to accurate, up-to-date patient information. With centralized patient records and automated processes for documentation and medication management, these systems help you minimize errors resulting from illegible handwriting, miscommunication, or incomplete medical histories. It also speeds up the process of assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, as your doctors and staff no longer need to deal with physical records when reviewing patient information.

By enabling comprehensive patient assessments and treatment plans, hospital CRMs contribute to improved clinical decision-making and patient safety, ultimately reducing the incidence of adverse events and medical errors within your medical facility.

Securing Sensitive Data

Another key benefit of CRM systems for the healthcare sector is their ability to reliably secure sensitive patient data. These systems implement robust security measures, including encryption, access controls, and audit trails, to safeguard your patient’s information from unauthorized access, breaches, or cyberattacks.

By adhering to strict compliance standards, such as HIPAA regulations, healthcare CRM software ensures that your patient data remains confidential and protected, thereby instilling trust and confidence in both patients and healthcare providers.

Managing Patient Data Efficiently

Medical CRM systems enhance patient data management by organizing information from diverse sources—such as electronic health records (EHRs), diagnostic tests, and treatment plans—into a centralized platform. This integration allows you to swiftly access comprehensive patient profiles, facilitating informed decision-making and improved care coordination. By eliminating data silos and redundancies, CRM software also boosts the efficiency, accuracy, and accessibility of patient information, ultimately elevating the quality and continuity of care within your medical facility.

Optimizing Internal Hospital Tasks

Healthcare CRM software enhances internal hospital operations by automating administrative tasks, streamlining workflows, and optimizing resource allocation. By automating routine tasks and standardizing processes, CRM software allows your staff to devote more time to patient care, thereby improving overall workflow management and operational efficiency within your facility.

Enhancing Medical Service Feedback

Healthcare CRM systems facilitate the collection and analysis of medical service feedback from patients, enabling continuous monitoring and improvement of care quality. Through patient satisfaction surveys, feedback forms, and sentiment analysis tools, CRM software gathers valuable insights into patient experiences and areas for improvement.

This feedback loop empowers you to identify trends, address concerns, and implement strategic initiatives to enhance patient satisfaction, loyalty, and retention, ultimately driving continuous improvement and excellence in your healthcare delivery.

Why Do You Need CRM for Healthcare Projects?

Many of the functions of healthcare CRM systems can help administrators and physicians better understand their patients and enhance the effectiveness of the medical services they offer.

Better Understanding of Customers’ Needs

First, healthcare CRM software empowers your health organization to gain valuable insights into your customers. These tools analyze data to identify patterns related to patients, including:

  • Behavior trends
  • Appointment regularity
  • No-show rates
  • Physician referrals
  • Effectiveness of outreach channels

This information is instrumental for doctors to improve patient interactions and provide better care. Also, in the case of high-risk patients, timely scans or blood tests can significantly affect their health. To prevent such delays, you can implement healthcare CRM systems to schedule automatic reminders for appointments.

These reminders are sent via emails, phone calls, and text messages and help to ensure your patients receive the necessary care on time. Once patient details are entered by your hospital staff, the CRM software manages them efficiently.

Gathering Patient Feedback

A healthcare CRM platform also helps you gather patient feedback and understand their experiences. This feedback is important to help you further enhance patient services and improve the overall patient experience for both doctors and administrators. The healthcare CRM automates the process of sending and collecting feedback, streamlining the entire operation.

Help With Marketing Campaigns

From a marketing standpoint, healthcare CRM systems also help you acquire new patients by providing data for the creation of targeted marketing campaigns. This allows you to reach your ideal patients based on demographics and health requirements. Additionally, streamlined referral management can also help you convert leads into loyal patients, while an improved online presence can enhance patient outreach through CRM analytics.

Building Patient Loyalty

Healthcare CRM systems can also help build patient loyalty by providing personalized communication and engagement materials so that you can create and nurture strong relationships. CRMs in healthcare also help create a more proactive system for follow-ups when it comes to appointment reminders. Overall, CRMs help you to enhance the coordination of patient care and increase responsiveness to patients’ needs.

Enhanced Billing Process

Another key benefit is an enhanced billing process, especially with integrated billing systems that can make for faster and more accurate processing of claims. This creates an automatic reduction of administrative tasks and paperwork through automation. Additionally, a smoother billing process also paves the way for you to improve your facility’s revenue collection and financial management.

Better Resource Allocation

Resource allocation is another key area of benefit in healthcare CRMs, as data-driven insights help you to identify areas for improvement and improve resource allocation. Data science is becoming increasingly important and in demand in the healthcare industry, especially as more decision-makers learn the value it offers to medical service providers.

Healthcare CRM Development Partner: How to Choose?

When selecting a healthcare CRM development partner, there are several factors you need to consider in order to ensure successful software implementation and utilization.

Industry Experience and Expertise

First, the provider’s expertise in the healthcare industry is critical. They should have extensive experience in healthcare CRM development, must possess a deep understanding of healthcare workflows and regulations, and must understand the specific needs unique to medical environments. This knowledge ensures that the CRM system aligns seamlessly with existing operational processes and complies with GDPR, HIPAA, and other relevant regulations.

Technology Stack

Additionally, it is important to evaluate the technology stack used by the development partner. The technologies they plan to employ must be modern, scalable, and secure. Ensuring this is vital in order to be able to handle the sensitive nature of healthcare data and to accommodate future growth. The software development provider should also offer customizable solutions to tailor the CRM system to the unique requirements of your healthcare facility.

Track Record and Client Feedback

Another important consideration is the provider’s track record and client testimonials. Reviewing case studies, looking at tech blogs and reviews, or speaking to past clients can provide insights into their capability and reliability. A provider known for excellent post-implementation support and training can greatly enhance the adoption and effective use of the CRM system by your healthcare staff.

Integration Capabilities

Finally, you should consider the integration capabilities of the CRM software with your other existing healthcare systems, such as EHRs, billing systems, and appointment scheduling tools. Seamless integration ensures that patient data is unified, resulting in a comprehensive view of patient information and streamlined operations. By carefully assessing these factors, you can select a dependable development partner that will deliver a robust and efficient CRM solution.

Pioneering Healthcare IT Solutions by Intellectsoft

At Intellectsoft, we believe that technology can elevate the quality of care you deliver. Our healthcare IT solutions empower you to:

  • automate operations
  • streamline decision-making
  • foster innovation

As a seasoned healthcare IT provider, Intellectsoft is a pioneering force in technological advancements in the healthcare sector.

Our solutions are backed by years of experience, in-depth technical expertise, and are designed to offer comprehensive tools for your healthcare business. Our software development solutions are specifically crafted to streamline your operations while giving you a unified view of your target audience. Whether you need help with hospital information systems or patient care solutions, we are committed to helping you create a custom solution that fits your needs.

If you’re thinking of creating a healthcare CRM, partner with us to leverage cutting-edge technology and a patient-centric approach. Our domain specialists will be happy to provide you with a comprehensive consultation on creating a healthcare CRM solution that streamlines your patient management tasks.

Final Thoughts

Healthcare CRM systems help ensure that you provide high-quality and timely patient care. It does this by automating appointment reminders and managing patient details efficiently. The systems also send notifications through emails, phone calls, and text messages, which helps avoid delays in prescribed medical scans and tests.

Healthcare CRM platforms also streamline the collection and analysis of patient feedback and aid you in enhancing service quality and patient experiences. Intellectsoft offers robust healthcare IT solutions that are designed to help you automate operations, boost decision-making, and drive innovation.

If you’re considering developing a healthcare CRM, Intellectsoft provides comprehensive consultation services that can help you create a patient-centric management solution.

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Maximize Your Business Potential with Cross-platform Mobile App Development https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/cross-platform-mobile-development/ Thu, 11 Jul 2024 12:26:12 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=26551 The concept of cross-platform app development can often be confusing. A major source of this confusion is the term “platform,” which can mean different things:...

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The concept of cross-platform app development can often be confusing. A major source of this confusion is the term “platform,” which can mean different things: hardware types like mobile phones or desktop computers, platform mobile development frameworks,or operating systems like Windows, Linux, iOS, or Android. This variety of meanings often leads to misreadings.

Let’s start by clarifying that cross-platform approaches differ between desktop and mobile devices. For mobile apps, the main idea is to use a single reusable codebase for all platforms. This isn’t always the case for desktop software and consoles, where different versions might require different codebases.

Additionally, some experts use “cross-platform” and “hybrid” interchangeably, but this isn’t entirely accurate for mobile platforms. In this article, we’ll highlight the benefits of cross platform mobile development and clarify the differences between these two types of mobile applications.

It’s also worth noting that progressive web applications (PWAs) can be considered “cross-platform” because they work across various platforms and operating systems through web browsers. While they can run on mobile devices, they aren’t built exclusively for mobile platforms. That’s why we won’t cover them here.

By the end of this article, you’ll have a clearer understanding of cross platform mobile app development frameworks and how it can benefit your projects. Let’s dive in!

What Is Cross-Platform App Development for Mobile Devices

When we talk about “cross platform mobile development,” we’re referring to one of the ways to build software for mobile devices and multiple platforms. Overall, there are three main approaches to mobile application development, each with its own pros and cons:

  • Cross-platform. This type of software works on different mobile platforms. What makes it special is that a cross platform app typically uses a single codebase. Most of the code is shared or reused for different mobile operating systems. Specialized frameworks enable this, helping developers reduce the limitations while still providing a “native-like” user experience.
  • Native. This type of application is written exclusively for one particular platform. It is designed to utilize all relevant software and hardware features available on that platform. Because developers focus on one mobile platform, the same code cannot be reused on other platforms.
  • Hybrid. This approach to mobile app development combines native and web technologies. Developers write the code in web development languages like CSS or HTML. Then, they wrap this code in a “native” shell. Hybrid apps are very similar to cross platform apps. The differences between them are often subtle. Because of this, many specialists treat them the same for simplicity.

cross platform mobile development

There are only two operating systems that dominate the industry of mobile devices: Android and iOS. Together, they cover over 99% of the market, making other operating systems almost irrelevant. That’s why, these days, when we talk about a “cross-platform mobile application,” we usually mean software that works on both Android and iOS devices.

Main Advantages of Cross-platform Mobile App Development

  • One code for all platforms. The main concept of cross-platform mobile apps is using a single codebase, fully or partially, on all target platforms. While “reusable code” has its limitations, it also leads to several further benefits.
  • Lower costs to cover platforms. “One code fits all” is a cost-effective approach that maximizes a limited budget. With cross-platform development, there’s no need for two dedicated teams to handle separate Android and iOS versions. Plus, native app developers charge more and are hard to come by. Using a single team with one stack of technologies for both platforms not only simplifies the process but also significantly cuts costs.
  • Less time to deliver a final software product. Using one codebase and one team simplifies the software development process compared with managing two teams at the same time. For example, managers do not need to synchronize the progress of two teams to release the software product on iOS and Android at the same time. Two native versions of an app would mean double coding, double testing, etc.
  • Larger user coverage. Thanks to cross platform mobile development, an application can reach more users. This approach offers a sufficient level of compatibility for different operating systems. It also maintains some level of “native” experience, so users feel more comfortable with their interaction with an app. That’s why cross-platform development is preferred if a project’s budget is not large enough to build two separate native applications.

Popular Cross platform Mobile Development Tools and Technologies

Over the years, developers have created many tools for building cross-platform applications. Here are the top 5 most popular frameworks that are currently used for mobile solutions for this purpose:

cross platform frameworks

React Native

Pros: React Native, created by Meta in 2015, has taken the app development world by storm. Its ability to render React components to native platform UI components gives the power to create slick, customized, and responsive user interfaces. It also supports operating systems for smart TV, such as tvOS and Android TV, and virtual reality devices.

Flexibility, modular architecture, and extensive third-party library support are just a few of React Native’s appealing features. These traits make it an attractive choice for many cross platform app developers, enabling the creation of some of the most famous and profitable mobile apps, including Facebook, Skype, Shopify, and Microsoft Office

Cons: While React Native provides the significant advantage of cross-platform development and a vibrant community, it does come with several drawbacks. Performance can be an issue, especially for complex, resource-intensive apps, due to the JavaScript-native code bridge. Limited native API support often requires custom native modules or third-party libraries, adding to the complexity. 

Flutter

Pros: Its versatility and performance make it a popular choice, as seen with apps like Google Pay and eBay. Flutter offers great performance and a native look to apps. Flutter also supports smooth animations with a stable refresh rate of 60/120 frames per second, depending on the device. Unlike other frameworks, Flutter has its rendering engine for drawing widgets, not relying on web browser technology.

Cons: On the downside, Flutter’s use of Dart can be a hurdle. Frontend developers might find it easier to switch to React Native, especially if they have React experience, while Java or C# developers may find Dart more familiar. Due to the Flutter engine, initial app sizes can be relatively large. Although Flutter’s ecosystem is growing, it’s not as extensive as more established cross platform frameworks like React Native. 

Apache Cordova

Pros: Apache Cordova is a go-to framework for mobile platforms, supporting Android, iOS, and Windows Phone. It lets developers build mobile apps using familiar web technologies like CSS, HTML, and JavaScript, making it easy for web developers to transition to mobile development. Using native WebView allows seamless integration with native device capabilities through plugins. Companies like IBM, Walmart, and Adobe use Apache Cordova in their stack.

Cons: Performance can be an issue since it relies on WebView, which might not match the speed and responsiveness of native components. Its focus on mobile platforms is somewhat restrictive compared to cross platform frameworks supporting a wider range of devices and OSs. Additionally, managing plugins for native functionality can add complexity and potential compatibility issues.

Ionic

Pros: Though Ionic focuses on building hybrid apps, it ranks as the fourth most popular cross-platform framework. Ionic supports Android, iOS, and the Universal Windows Platform. It combines web code like Sass, CSS, and HTML with native code, providing flexibility. Ionic’s extensive library of pre-designed components and powerful CLI make creating visually appealing, functional apps easy. Using Angular or React for app logic enhances development with structured, scalable code. Southwest Airlines and Airbus Helicopters are famous adopters of the Ionic framework. 

Cons: Ionic apps can face performance issues compared to fully native apps, especially for complex or graphics-intensive applications. The reliance on web technologies means that app performance is tied to WebView performance. Despite Ionic’s strong cross-platform capabilities, developers may still need to write platform-specific code for the best performance and user experience.

Xamarin

Pros: Xamarin, maintained by Microsoft, rounds out the top five popular tools for building cross-platform apps for Android, iOS, tvOS, watchOS, the Universal Windows Platform, and macOS. It allows cross platform app developers to reuse and share code across platforms using C# and .NET, which is especially beneficial for those familiar with Microsoft’s ecosystem. Xamarin ensures apps have native performance and access to native APIs, making them feel and function like native applications. Siemens and Pinterest use this framework.

Cons: Xamarin apps can be larger in size. While this framework offers strong cross-platform capabilities, it has a steeper learning curve for developers who need to become more familiar with C# and NET. Additionally, some advanced platform-specific features might require writing custom native code, which can limit the benefits of code sharing. Dependence on Microsoft’s tools and ecosystem might also be a drawback for some development teams.

Tips For Developing Mobile Cross-platform Software

There are several factors you need to consider before deciding to create cross platform apps.

  • Your target audience. Should you cover both Android and iOS? Is it better to narrow down your audience?
  • Your budget. Will it be enough for two teams or only one?
  • Your potential development team. Does it have enough specialists? What tech stacks do they use?
  • Your time to market. When would be the optimal time to release your software? Can a team meet this deadline?

Do marketing research. Analyze your plans. Find answers to these questions before moving to development.

To sum up, you should consider cross-platform development instead of a native app development approach when:

  • You lack budget for two native apps;
  • You need to release your software as fast as possible;
  • You need to cover both Android and iOS at the same time.

However, the benefits of cross-platform app development come at a price. If you decide to develop a cross-platform mobile app, you need to consider certain drawbacks.

  • Lower performance compared to native apps.
  • More testing is required to ensure compatibility with several versions of different mobile operating systems.
  • Inability to use the full extent of hardware and software features provided natively.
  • Higher maintenance requirements to adapt to system updates on all target platforms.

Properly choosing cross-platform mobile app development technologies can mitigate all those drawbacks to a certain degree. A skilled team will be able to maximize the selected framework and other tools to ensure good quality.

Conclusion

As you can see, cross platform mobile development process can be confusing at first glance. But once you learn more about it, you become impressed by its numerous advantages. Modern frameworks for cross-platform development are supported by such IT giants as Google, Microsoft, Meta, and many others. Thanks to the efforts of the loyal community, these tools have become very effective in delivering native-like experience across various platforms.

At Intellectsoft, we have skilled specialists in various cross-platform technologies. We offer a wide range of mobile app development services to create software for Android, iOS, and Windows Phone. Whether you want to release your application on all these platforms as separate native apps or just one, we can deliver the solution. Contact us and tell our solution advisor what kind of native or cross-platform mobile application you want.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can cross-platform apps offer the same performance as native apps?

Cross-platform apps have come a long way and can offer performance close to native apps, especially with modern frameworks like React Native. While native apps are still the best in terms of performance and user experience, cross-platform development is a great alternative. It allows for quicker development, lower costs, and easier maintenance. For many businesses, the small drop in performance is worth these benefits, making cross-platform development a smart and efficient choice.

What is the cross-platform development cost?

The cost of cross-platform development varies based on several factors, including the complexity of the app, the required features, expertise of the cross platform app developers, and the chosen cross platform frameworks. Reach out to our team to explore the development process and prices for your project.

Are there any security concerns with cross-platform development?

Yes, cross-platform development can have security issues because of shared code and third-party libraries. However, working with a tech partner like Intellectsoft can help you avoid these risks. We conduct regular audits, use trusted libraries, follow consistent security practices, and leverage the expertise of our development team.

Can existing native apps be converted to cross-platform apps?

No, the developer needs to rewrite an existing native application to a cross-platform technology. This process, often referred to as application migration, employs cross platform frameworks to create a cross platform solution that works on multiple platforms.

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Generative AI Explained: What It Means for Your Business https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/wha-is-generative-ai/ Mon, 01 Jul 2024 11:26:02 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27705 Imagine a future where your business can foresee market trends, personalize the customer experience with detail that makes the uncanny valley seem like a minor...

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Imagine a future where your business can foresee market trends, personalize the customer experience with detail that makes the uncanny valley seem like a minor bump, and lead product innovation with previously unimaginable precision. 

With generative AI, that future is already here.

This technology is laying the groundwork for entirely novel business ventures and strategic approaches and has been heralded as a generational technological innovation. 

key industries AI

The global generative AI market is growing exponentially. Currently standing at an impressive $44.89 billion, it’s on track for significant expansion across multiple industries, including retail, banking, insurance, and marketing teams. 

The question now becomes, is the industrial revolution of our time? Or is it another blip in the business product life cycle? This article looks at how AI has become the future of business transformation and why it’s here to stay.

What is Generative AI?

We’ll let you in on a little secret. The introduction to this article was written entirely by generative AI (don’t worry, the rest of this article is 100% written the good old-fashioned way). 

Generative AI is most widely known by the public at large for its ability to create the written word and the production of stunning images from a mere text prompt. Types of generative AI like ChatGPT and Gemini have become household names. 

Just like ‘Google’ changed how we search online, or how ‘Facebook’ redefined the way we market our products, they’re changing the very face of business itself.

But beyond writing a few lazy articles for college students or creating interesting artwork, what exactly is generative AI?

Generative AI refers to a type of Artificial Intelligence that can generate completely new and unique content, from texts and images to music and even code. Generative AI learns how to do this after being trained on a set of human-generated data in a process known as ‘Machine Learning,’ or ‘ML’ for short. 

ML and deep learning allow AI to learn patterns and features from data, enabling it to generate new content based on what it has learned from human datasets. 

Once fully trained, it can ‘generate’ new content without explicit human input.

Why It’s Important

For businesses, the generative AI market translates into turning the cogs of creativity without constant human oversight. Picture the freedom to design processes that run themselves while your team focuses on strategy over routine tasks. 

It means allocating your resources with laser precision and making informed decisions based on foresight rather than hunches.

Generative AI is catapulting companies into a future brimming with uncharted potential, offering tools not only for survival but also for reimagining what’s possible in commerce and service offerings.

For business, embracing generative AI is like opening doors to rooms unknown: vital if staying ahead of the curve isn’t merely an aspiration but a business imperative.

How Does Generative AI Work?

Generative AI technology uses numerous sophisticated neural network architectures and algorithms to learn from truly massive amounts of human-generated data and create new and unique content. 

These architectures work side by side and generally include Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs), Variational Autoencoders (VAEs), transformers, and foundation models. For those interested in how they work together, we’ll explore them in more detail below.

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs)

Generative Adversarial Networks, or “GANs,” are like a high-stakes game between two rival chess players. One player, the generator, develops new data points and creates fresh pieces to put into play. 

The other player is the discriminator. It has an eagle eye for detail and judges whether those newly minted data points look authentic when squared against true data.

The two go back and forth, refining moves until what they’re producing could pass for genuine at first glance. This dynamic duo has found its niche in business operations where creating something new yet convincingly real can be quite valuable.

Variational Autoencoders (VAEs)

Think of VAEs as diligent librarians. They excel at organizing information into more manageable, compact forms while ensuring that nothing critical is lost in the process. 

When you need them to find or reconstruct particulars from this condensed library to create something new (perhaps a document that’s never been written before), they’re on it with remarkable accuracy. 

Here, you can see why their potential in fields where every detail matters, such as finance and healthcare, is so high.

Transformers and Foundation Models

Transformers pay close attention not just to the words spoken but also how they relate to each other for a full grasp of meaning. That level of discernment is invaluable for machines meant to understand human language nuances and translate or respond accordingly.

Meanwhile, foundation models are like multitasking prodigies, initially nurtured on diverse data diets. These adaptable systems readily shift gears across various jobs without missing a beat. 

Crafting eloquent chatbot responses, translating languages seamlessly, and generating articles and reports with finesse all streamline customer interactions perfectly.

Real-World Applications of Generative AI in Business

Practical use cases for these models stretch across multiple industries and offer tangible benefits. 

  • GANs play a significant role in making virtual worlds within video games and VR spaces more captivating, elevating the user’s enjoyment. 
  • VAEs contribute to e-commerce by refining how online shops suggest items that shoppers might like. 

And when it comes to transformers, they’re behind the scenes of those smart chatbots replying swiftly and helpfully on many customer service platforms.

When a business brings these sophisticated generative AI tools into its fold, They have the potential to completely change and refine existing processes for the better. 

Businesses typically witness marked improvements in efficiency. Products and services feel more tailored to individual needs, and there’s a noticeable leap forward in creativity across different sectors of their business.

Benefits of Generative AI

Generative AI is reshaping the way industries operate, introducing levels of efficiency and scalability previously out of reach. Picture your business not just keeping pace but setting the tempo in a rapidly shifting market.

Let’s consider what these systems can do for you. They refine workflows to such an extent that “streamlined” seems like an understatement—they’re practically redefining process optimization. As your company expands, so does the prowess of generative AI. It adapts seamlessly, ensuring growth doesn’t become a bottleneck.

But here’s where it gets truly interesting: Customization.

Generative AI grants businesses the golden opportunity to craft products and services with precision, meeting each customer on their terms. In a day and age where customers rate personalization above even the products themselves, isn’t that exactly where any successful enterprise wants to be?

Impact on Industries

Let’s talk about how generative AI is making a mark across various sectors:

In healthcare, this technology acts like a turbo-charged assistant in drug research. It zips through the data on molecular interactions that used to take an age to process. For patients, think of it as having a guardian angel who develops treatment plans suited just for them while boosting recovery and health outcomes.

Switch gears to retail, where shopping becomes less about sifting through endless aisles and more tailored-to-you showcases. Generative AI sifts through heaps of customer data quicker than any human could, predicting what buyers might want next before they even click ‘search.’

Over in the manufacturing industry, imagine designing new products not over months but days with the help of 3D models churned out by AI—getting these innovations onto shelves swiftly while also keeping warehouses smartly stocked by anticipating demand curves with minimal manual meddling.

The entertainment and media realm keeps viewers glued because generative AI learns what tickles their fancy. It’s a matchmaker between audience preferences and content offerings, which means stickier subscription numbers. Industry giants like Netflix have been implementing this tech for quite some time now with incredible results.

Lastly, fintech businesses find a sidekick in AI. Tedious tasks like punching numbers are automated, while risk calculations get sharper. Plus, these models act almost clairvoyant when peeking into market trends so firms can make smarter investment calls.

Business Value Contribution

Generative AI is shaping the operational dynamics of businesses, serving as a catalyst for creativity and efficiency.

Imagine the possibilities when time-consuming creative tasks are streamlined by smart systems that learn and improve. Suddenly, your team can fast-track new products from concept to customer’s hands without breaking a sweat.

Take design, for example. Now, powerful software tools infused with AI capabilities let you whip up designs at lightning speed. You get instant feedback, you adapt immediately, and what used to be an endurance race against competitors becomes more like a sprint.

The brilliance of this technology extends beyond speed: Think about diving into oceans of data that would otherwise drown mere mortals in analysis paralysis. 

With generative AI, insights come not just faster but sharper, too, enabling you to stay ahead of market trends and really ‘get’ what your customers yearn for before they’ve fully articulated it themselves.

gen ai stats

By 2030, forecasts suggest that AI-augmented decision support won’t just be a ‘should have.’ It will define business strategies across industries, with nearly half of all derived value hailing from these smarter systems, helping humans make bolder moves confidently.

Common Generative AI Use Cases

The effects of generative AI have already been significant across key industries, transforming traditional business operations with its innovative applications.

Here are a few of the common practical applications:

Content Creation

Perhaps no industry has felt the impact of Generative AI as much as content creation. Here, AI streamlines crafting written pieces, images, and various multimedia content. It’s a boon for marketing teams aiming to churn out captivating material with greater efficiency.

Customer Support

Whether they know it or not, around 88% of customers have already interacted with an AI-powered chatbot. Advanced chatbots and virtual assistants powered by this technology can field customer queries round-the-clock. This enhancement in service comes with the diminished need for human intervention. 

Security

The realm of cybersecurity benefits from simulated attack scenarios concocted by generative AI, serving as drills that bolster protective measures. It’s cheaper than penetration testing and unlike its human counterpart, the simulated attacks are relentless.

Predictive Maintenance

Foreseeing equipment failures before they occur is now possible thanks to AI capabilities. A tool for preventing unnecessary expenses and disruptions in industrial environments.

Cutting-Edge Diagnostic Systems

In healthcare, professionals can make more accurate diagnoses by analyzing patterns extracted from data collections, significantly advancing patient care. Perhaps one of the more well-known examples is the Cyto-AiSCAN AI, which is used to detect cancer. Interestingly, its original application was identifying pastries in a Japanese bakery.

Automated Financial Advisory

Personalized financial guidance is now available through AI technology. Clients receive advice based on thorough data analysis that can enhance investment strategies for both individual and corporate portfolios.

Choosing Your Tech Partner To Integrate Generative AI Into Your Business

Selecting the ideal technology collaborator is pivotal for a smooth and successful integration of generative AI into your enterprise. Intellectsoft distinguishes itself as an authoritative provider of robust AI development services.

For more than a decade, Intellectsoft has steered clients through the intricate process of digital revolution. Recognizing the essential role that AI plays in bolstering business profits is second nature to us. 

Our knowledgeable developers are at your service, offering bespoke solutions meticulously developed to meet your unique needs.

Explore our services and discover the transformative impact generative AI can have on your operations: Intellectsoft AI Development Services.

Final Thoughts

Tech trends can be fleeting, yet there’s a sense that generative AI has staked its claim in the digital terrain with more permanence than Google+ or the Facebook phone ever managed. 

Weaving this technology into your business framework might just unlock innovative strategies and ensure your offerings maintain their edge in an ever-competitive market.

Generative AI development stands at the forefront of change, regardless of industry boundaries. Consider it an industrial revolution 2.0—one that promises to redefine how we approach our businesses and markets.

As adoption grows, expect to witness new industries emerging from this technological boon. Here at Intellectsoft, we’re not waiting for tomorrow. We’ve already embraced what feels like the next chapter.

Is your enterprise prepared for what’s unfolding? Reach out to our specialists today and discover how seamless integration can be under expert guidance.

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CRM vs ERP: Choosing the Right Solution for Your Business https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/crm-vs-erp/ Mon, 24 Jun 2024 19:42:28 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27690 Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) are both crucial systems for any business, regardless of size. Zendesk, a pioneer in customer service...

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Customer Relationship Management (CRM) and Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) are both crucial systems for any business, regardless of size.

Zendesk, a pioneer in customer service solutions, simply states that these systems become indispensable as organizations develop: 

“Given enough time and growth, most organizations will need an ERP and a CRM.

But what do these 3 letter acronyms actually mean? How do they ensure the success of your business?

There’s little disagreement regarding CRM and ERP use in the business world. Approximately three-quarters of all businesses employ an ERP system to interact with customers in real-time, while two-thirds adopt a CRM within their early years.

These numbers mean that both technologies are widely adopted and also signal recognition of the strategic value inherent in such systems.

Each addresses different aspects of operations; yet when used together, they create powerful leverage for any company’s progression in terms of efficiency, scalability, and competitive edge.

What is a CRM?

CRM, short for Customer Relationship Management, refers to the systems designed to keep track of a company’s engagements with current and future customers. CRM systems act as a central hub where all customer-related information is stored, making it easier for businesses to nurture their relationships with clients.

With CRM software in place, repetitive tasks are automated, which allows employees to focus on providing higher-quality service. This enhances the efficiency of processes from marketing campaigns right through to sales activities and after-sales support.

By keeping detailed records of customer interactions, CRMs provide valuable insights that help tailor communication and services precisely matched to client needs. The ultimate aim is to foster stronger connections with customers by being relevant and responsive – attributes known for driving loyalty and repeat business.

Effectively employed CRM tools enable organizations not just to manage contacts but also to make strategic decisions based on solid data analysis. Such informed decision-making can lead directly towards more successful outcomes both internally within operations management as well as externally regarding market presence.

The Benefits of a CRM System

Implementing a CRM offers several key advantages for business:

  • Elevated Customer Support: CRM tools act as an aggregate for customer information from both outside and inside the organization. Information is consolidated into one accessible platform, which allows for a more personalized service experience
  • Boosted Sales Performance: Analytics information provided by the CRM means sales teams can identify promising leads and trends with far greater precision. When focusing on these prospects, they greatly increase the chances of turning inquiries into profitable outcomes.
  • Improved Customer Retention: Access to trends analysis performed by the CRM provides valuable insights into consumer behavior. A business may utilize this knowledge to retain its client base, and also increase brand loyalty.

What is an ERP?

Enterprise Resource Planning, better known as ERP, is a comprehensive software platform that helps businesses manage and connect the many facets of their operations. 

Think of it like the central nervous system for a company’s data and processes. It brings together finance, supply chain management, operations, reporting functions, manufacturing capabilities, and human resource tasks under one roof.

The key aim of having an ERP system is to break down silos between departments. By allowing free-flowing communication within an organization, and with its business partners, ERP ensures everyone has access to up-to-date information they need when they need it.

This kind of coordination can significantly boost decision-making abilities as you have all your actionable data in one accessible spot. 

Additionally, by streamlining workflows and automating certain administrative tasks through this centralized approach, companies often find marked improvements in efficiency and productivity.

ERP also plays an important role in helping organizations keep pace with compliance requirements set by various regulatory bodies. Tasks are made simpler when all relevant info is easily reachable within a unified system.

The Benefits of an ERP System

ERP systems unify multiple aspects of a business into a single interface, which simplifies many day-to-day operations:

  • Cost Efficiency: Streamlining processes and reducing the costs of administration and operations with an ERP leads to significant savings.
  • Improved Productivity: Naturally, when all tools used by the business are integrated into one single system, efficiency and productivity are greatly enhanced. 
  • Better Decision Making: An ERP system provides operational data in real-time, meaning strategic planning and decision-making can be made based on accurate and consolidated information.

CRM vs ERP: The Key Differences

The major difference between CRM and ERP systems lies within their core function in the business:

  • CRM focuses primarily on the “front-end” or “front-office”. It manages the interactions with customers and sales prospects across various communication channels.
  • ERP, in contrast, focuses on integrating “back-end”, or internal information across the entire business.

This CRM vs ERP table illustrates the difference between ERP and CRM more clearly, and compares the typical use cases for each system:

CRM vs ERP: the key difference

ERP vs CRM: Exploring the Similarities 

CRM vs ERP

At their core, ERP and CRM systems serve as pivotal instruments for organizational achievement due to a shared foundation in several key areas:

Centralized Data 

CRM and ERP stand out for their ability to bring data under one roof. This centralization provides data for decision-makers who need current and uniform information across all business units.

Efficiency in Operations

Streamlining internal processes with ERP and CRM systems creates an environment where time-consuming tasks are automated, teams work cohesively, and the overall machinery of your company operates without unnecessary friction.

Insightful Reporting 

In terms of analytics with ERP vs CRM, both types of systems provide powerful reporting utilities that peel back layers on operational dynamics and customer engagements. These insights are fuel for developing forward-thinking strategies that align with both market trends and resource allocation.

Productivity Enhancement 

At their essence, ERP and CRM tools increase customer engagement, but ERP platforms orchestrate resource management. Both paths lead toward elevating organizational productivity, not incrementally but significantly.

Integrating CRM and ERP

Combining your CRM and ERP systems has the potential to revolutionize your business operations by bringing together customer interaction and internal processes. 

To ensure a successful integration, it is essential to follow steps that will align activities, data, and processes throughout your company with the two separate systems.

1. Prepare for CRM and ERP Integration  

Begin by establishing a plan that clearly outlines your objectives. Set the boundaries for integration and determine beforehand the specific data to be exchanged between the two platforms. Develop an analysis detailing the effects of the transition, on existing procedures.

2. Keep Data in Sync  

All data between the two platforms needs to be synchronized. Use specifically designed tools and middleware that can automate and check this ongoing process and reduce data duplication during the ERP and CRM integration process. 

3. Align Workflows  

Creating an integration between CRM and ERP systems requires outlining procedures that cover areas in both platforms. For example, order fulfillment and customer service

The aim is to establish operations that eliminate the need for input, in transferring data or finishing assignments.

4. Testing and Validation 

Before the launch, make sure to examine the integrated systems. Confirm that data moves smoothly between CRM and ERP systems and that all processes are working correctly. Testing in real-life scenarios is crucial at this point in order to identify any integration issues before the integration goes to production.

5. User Training and Support  

Once the two systems are successfully integrated, synced, and functional with the business, it’s time to train your existing users and staff in the operation of the new platform.

Continuous support is crucial at this stage to help staff adapt to the integrated ERP and CRM systems.

6. Review and Iterate 

After the integration goes live, a post-implementation monitoring of the system is required. This includes soliciting user feedback on a regular and ongoing basis. 

This feedback should be used to make adjustments and tweak the environment, which will improve the integration over time. These regular adjustments will reduce in frequency over time.

ERP vs CRM: What Should You Choose?

When deciding between a CRM or ERP system, it’s important to consider your business needs. If you’re interested in building customer connections, enhancing service quality, and driving up sales numbers, a CRM is the way to go. 

It’s tailored to cater to your customers, improving interactions supporting marketing campaigns, and streamlining services—all of which can lead to increased sales.

On the other hand, if your company is looking for an all-in-one solution that integrates functional areas such as HR, logistics, or finance, then an ERP system might be more suitable. 

ERP excels at bringing together data and processes in one place. They are crucial for businesses aiming to improve efficiency while reducing expenses. 

Regardless of choice, a CRM or ERP system handles management tasks more efficiently. These systems simplify intricate operations across your organization and enhance collaboration among different departments.

Choosing a Trusted Custom CRM Development Partner

Should you wish to experience enhanced employee efficiency, improved customer satisfaction, and consistent increases in sales performance, consider integrating a CRM platform into your business strategy.

Intellectsoft stands as a comprehensive software development company enriched by years of crafting CRM solutions tailored for businesses across the spectrum. 

Whether you’re migrating to a brand new platform, or requiring a CRM built from the ground up, our experts at Intellectsoft are equipped with the knowledge, expertise, and experience to support you through the entire process.

Summing Up

When deciding between a CRM or ERP system, it’s important to consider your company’s requirements and long-term objectives. 

Whether you aim to enhance customer interactions or optimize workflows, grasping the differences between CRM and ERP is crucial for making a well-informed choice.

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A Comprehensive CRM Implementation Guide in 2024 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/crm-implementation/ Tue, 11 Jun 2024 16:45:32 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27675 “CRM is your GPS to a better route on your Business Development journey.” ― Bobby Darnell Companies that use customer relationship management (CRM) systems have...

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“CRM is your GPS to a better route on your Business Development journey.”Bobby Darnell

Companies that use customer relationship management (CRM) systems have experienced a 47% increase in customer retention rate, a 21% improvement in productivity, 16% higher customer retention, and a 17% boost in lead conversions. So if you are a business owner looking to improve customer relationships and streamline internal processes, this article is for you. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the various aspects of custom CRM implementation, from the process to its benefits.

While it takes 13 months to see an ROI from this tech investment, the $45 per dollar spent is well worth the wait.

Advantages of a Custom-Built CRM

Because every business is unique, custom solutions offer tailored features that can create the best experience for their specific customers. Unlike ready-made CRMs, which come with unnecessary features, choosing custom solutions allows you to build the exact functionalities your teams need, saving money in the process.

Big brands have already adopted custom-built CRMs in favor of pre-made ones.

For example, Apple and Uber use custom-built CRMs to drive sales and customer engagement.

Amazon’s own CRM captures customer data at the point of purchase, instantly customizing the user experience and providing a full view of the customer journey. This helps reduce returns and cart abandonment.

Similarly, Tesla started using its own CRM in 2019. Today, the company boasts the highest customer satisfaction rate in the car manufacturing industry according to Consumer Reports. Ninety-one percent of Tesla owners are more likely to rave about their vehicles than other brands, partly due to their in-house developed sales software.

Overcoming Challenges with Tech Partner

While custom-built CRMs can present challenges such as higher costs, longer development times, and maintenance complexities, these can be effectively managed with the right approach. To circumvent these challenges smoothly, partner with a software provider specializing in custom software, such as Intellectsoft

What is a CRM Implementation?

Beyond just setting up software, CRM implementation is a strategic move towards better understanding and managing your interactions with current and future customers. It’s a holistic process that entails meticulously configuring the software to align with your unique business needs, ensuring that every customer interaction is captured, analyzed, and leveraged to foster stronger relationships. Your CRM implementation plan shall begin with a deep dive into your business-specific requirements and goals.

Choosing your CRM development partner is next, and it’s a decision that should not be taken lightly. This is where expertise meets execution. Partnering with a company that not only understands the intricacies of CRM systems but also appreciates the unique challenges and opportunities within your industry can make a significant difference.

Before hiring a developer, make sure they are capable of tailoring the CRM to fit your unique business requirements. A one-size-fits-all approach simply does not apply to CRM systems. Your development partner must also bring the training aspect to the table. Onboarding your team to effectively utilize the CRM system according to their respective roles is a pivotal part of the implementation.

And the final step, which is not an endpoint but a commitment to continuous evolution. Regular monitoring and evaluation of the CRM system’s performance against your objectives allow for timely adjustments and optimizations.

Let’s explore the details of the implementation steps in the next section.

CRM Implementation Process: 6 Steps to Success

CRM implementation is a multifaceted undertaking that necessitates a roadmap marked with critical milestones to ensure a smooth transition and alignment with your business goals. This roadmap is not just a path but a strategic blueprint for transforming customer relationship management within your organization.

Below are the six essential steps to navigate this journey successfully:

Step 1: Identify CRM Goals

Delineate what you aim to achieve, whether it’s enhancing customer engagement, improving customer interactions, optimizing sales processes, or refining marketing strategies. Having crystal-clear goals sets a targeted direction for the implementation process.

This stage is crucial as it establishes the foundation for the entire process. Setting objectives early on guides the entire procedure so that every decision aligns with your business aspirations.

Step 2: Consider Required CRM Integrations

Assessing your current operational workflows and technology stack is imperative before introducing a new CRM system. Evaluating the current ecosystem shows potential problems and chances to streamline. It confirms the new CRM system can blend into it.

This is where you pinpoint the applications your CRM needs to synchronize with, such as email platforms, social media channels, and customer service tools. The goal is to establish seamless data flow and functionality across all operational areas. After all, a CRM is supposed to enhance efficiency and provide a unified view of customer interactions.

When you have created a cohesive ecosystem where data flows freely, you will be able to provide your team with the insights they need to make informed decisions.

Step 3: Choose Your CRM Development Partner

The right partner not only brings technical prowess but also possesses a deep understanding and extensive experience in the following:

Data Management

A good CRM software vendor delivers cutting-edge techniques like advanced data management, predictive analytics, and smart automation. They must be knowledgeable in tapping into the latest technology trends, such as Big Data, AI, Machine Learning, and Blockchain, to stay at the forefront.

Software Integration

Choose a company that can enhance your technological foundations through the development of robust microservices, dependable API structures, and seamless data integration techniques. You can propel your strategic objectives forward if they are capable of creating comprehensive enterprise applications or leveraging enterprise app integration solutions to streamline your operations and foster innovation.

Legacy Application Modernization

Outdated software not only poses significant security risks but also demands high maintenance costs. Engage leading experts to conduct comprehensive reviews of your systems and upgrade them with cutting-edge tools and technologies for enhanced performance and security.

Step 4: Customize for Tailored Solutions

Customizing a CRM system involves adjusting features, functionalities, and interfaces to align with your workflows, user needs, and overall business strategy. It requires a detailed checklist that enables you to create a configured design that delivers on its promise to enhance your business operations and customer relationships.

Instituting a governance framework will also provide guidelines on how the CRM system should be used and maintained. This typically includes standards and procedures for data management, user access, customization, and system updates that guarantee your CRM initiative’s long-term sustainability.

Step 5: Empower Teams with Training

The success of a CRM implementation heavily relies on user adoption. It’s not just about knowing which buttons to click but also understanding how to leverage the system to enhance customer interactions and drive business growth.

Providing comprehensive training sessions ensures your team is well-equipped to unleash the full potential of the system. This empowerment not only enhances efficiency but also fosters a culture of continuous improvement.

Step 6: Ongoing Assessment and Adaptation

No enterprise is static, so your CRM system shouldn’t be either. Establish an iterative process that ensures it remains agile, responsive, and aligned with your evolving business needs. For example, conduct weekly performance reviews of your CRM system to track its efficiency. Also, consider utilizing CRM analytics tools should be utilized to gauge user adoption and the system’s effectiveness in achieving business goals.

Always be open to incorporating new functionalities as the CRM vendor releases updates or your business needs shift. Regular employee feedback can also be invaluable in spotting areas of the CRM system that need tweaking for better performance.

Navigate these steps with precision and strategic foresight, and you will pave the way for a CRM implementation that not only meets but exceeds your expectations and drives your business toward enhanced customer-centricity and operational excellence.

Remember, effective CRM implementation is not just about technology but also about strategically aligning such technology with your business goals and customer needs.

Importance of CRM Implementation

In essence, CRM implementation is an investment in a strategic framework that transcends mere technological adoption by representing a strategic pivot toward a more engaged and insightful business model. It empowers your business to:

  • be more responsive, agile, and customer-focused
  • deepen the understanding of customer needs, preferences, and behaviors
  • anticipate customer desires and tailor interactions to individual expectations
  • build enduring relationships that drive loyalty and growth
  • commit to operational excellence
  • enable teams across sales, marketing, and customer service to work more coherently and efficiently

A well-implemented CRM system provides a unified platform that fosters collaboration and enhances the ability to act on data-driven insights. Consequently, you will achieve improved internal workflows, better customer experience, and a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Benefits of CRM Software Implementation

While implementing a CRM system is considered an operational upgrade, it’s actually a strategic investment that yields a high return over time in terms of catalyzing business growth and customer rapport improvement.

These are the changes your organization can expect post-implementation:

Precision in Sales Forecasting

CRM systems offer a granular view of sales trends and customer behaviors. This predictive prowess enables your business to craft strategies that are both responsive and anticipatory. As a result, you are staying a step ahead of market dynamics.

Enhancement of Customer Service

With a comprehensive CRM, customer interactions are no longer siloed but part of a continuum. Hence, support teams are able to deliver personalized and contextually relevant assistance. Doing so not only boosts customer satisfaction but also nurtures loyalty and retention.

Efficiency in Communication

Yet another advantage is breaking down barriers between departments, which streamlines internal communication and collaboration. Such a unified approach ensures that all team members are on the same page, marching cohesively towards common business goals.

Automation of Repetitive Tasks

Liberating your team from the mundane and routine everyday tasks allows them to focus on initiatives that drive business growth. This shift optimizes resource allocation while boosting employee morale as they engage in more meaningful and impactful work.

Highly Targeted Marketing Campaigns

Marketing efforts based on robust data analysis resonate with the intended audience, thus maximizing impact and return on investment.

As you can see, CRM software implementation touches every aspect of your business, from sales and customer service to internal workflows and marketing. This indispensable investment simultaneously propels operational excellence and promotes a customer-centric organization.

Wrapping Up

This guide has walked you through the essential steps in the planning, execution, and deployment of a CRM implementation strategy, underscoring the importance and benefits of adopting a CRM system tailored to your business needs.

Adding this software to your current tech stack guarantees to enhance customer relationships and elevate operational efficiencies. However, the system’s success greatly depends on the willingness of your team to adopt it. Statistics show that while 65% of businesses use CRM within the first five years of operations, less than 40% achieve full adoption. That’s why you should commission a vendor that is capable of training users from various departments of your company who perform different roles.

Partnering with a seasoned expert like Intellectsoft ensures not only a smooth transition but also an optimized integration of CRM into your business landscape. Our expertise in enterprise software development covers the full life cycle of application design, integration, and management.

We are experienced in deploying this technology through the construction, healthcare, dental, insurance, FinTech, logistics and automotive, travel and hospitality, and retail and e-commerce industries. Discover how our custom CRM software implementation helped a dental clinic scale new heights in this case study. For a deeper dive into how Intellectsoft can future-proof your business operations, visit our services page.

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How to Build a CRM: A Step-by-Step Guide https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/how-to-build-a-crm/ Tue, 28 May 2024 13:16:26 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27670 Starting a business is easy, but achieving success can be challenging. To run a successful business, you need the right mix of tools and solutions...

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Starting a business is easy, but achieving success can be challenging. To run a successful business, you need the right mix of tools and solutions that set you apart from the competition. And because customers are the ones who will have the final word on whether your business is worth supporting, it’s essential to focus your energies on connecting with them and giving them a positive experience. 

Why Your Company Needs CRM Software?

The best way to retain customers and grow sales is by prioritizing your customer experience (CX). This means investing in customer relationship management (CRM) software. A CRM lets you broaden your sales pipeline, learn more about your customers, and deliver more value to them over the entire customer life cycle. From sales and marketing to customer service, CRM software is an essential tool that will benefit several departments in your organization. 

The global CRM market is also projected to experience a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12% between 2023 and 2030, according to a report from Fortune Business Insights. With so many companies taking advantage of the benefits offered by CRM software, you don’t want to get left behind.

Investing in CRM software is money well spent. Your return on investment (ROI) after adopting a CRM software will more than justify the money you spent on the adoption. According to a Nucleus Research report, the average ROI after implementing CRM software is $8.71 for every dollar spent! That’s nearly nine times the amount of returns compared to the initial investment, which is a strong argument in favor of using CRM software for your company. 

If you haven’t yet found CRM software for your business, then this article is the perfect starting point. We will make a case for why you should get CRM software, cover the steps to build a custom CRM, and look at some of the challenges you might face when adopting new CRM software. 

Let’s dive right in.

Building Your Own CRM: Worth It?

Now that you’re convinced about the need for a CRM platform at your business, the next step is deciding what kind of CRM software you want to work with. While many businesses choose to build custom CRMs, it’s not absolutely necessary to do so. You can also shop for an off-the-shelf solution to help manage customer relationships. 

Building a custom CRM platform requires time, money, patience, skill, and knowledge. Unless you have plenty of these resources to spare, it’s not advisable to take on the challenge of building a custom CRM for your business. 

Instead, it would be much wiser to evaluate the prepackaged software solutions to see which most closely matches your business needs. It will save your company the expense of designing the software while still bringing you the most desirable benefits of using CRM platforms. 

However, if you have an extremely specific list of requirements, investing in a custom CRM software for the long term would be better.

Let’s look at the options available for companies looking to implement a CRM platform. There are three main types of CRM software available today, and we shall examine each in turn.

1. Ready-Made CRM Platform

The first option is a ready-made, off-the-shelf CRM platform. There are dozens of these on the market, including extremely popular and widely used ones like Salesforce, Zoho CRM, or Freshsales Suite. 

The reason why these CRM software are so popular is because they are extremely convenient to begin using. You simply choose a pricing plan that works for you and train your team members to use the software. In just two simple steps, you’re ready to launch your new CRM and start reaping the benefits.

These ready-made CRM platforms come with a fixed list of features and a fixed amount of storage space. So unless the features list covers every single one of your business requirements, it’s not a good idea to go for a ready-made CRM software. They lack flexibility in terms of features and functionality, and the limited storage space makes scaling up operations tricky. 

Another drawback of ready-made CRM software is that they can often be unjustifiably expensive if you have a large team, because they usually charge per user license. 

Those who have found an effective CRM solution with ready-made platforms are lucky, but the rest of us need to keep looking for a more appropriate solution.

2. Custom CRM System

If you want to have more flexibility in terms of features and a greater degree of control over the functioning of your CRM platform, then you can opt to create a CRM that is customized to your specific needs. This is the smart option if you have a large team and complex requirements to meet with your CRM.

When you build a CRM from scratch, you can be sure that it will seamlessly integrate with your other business tools to deliver maximum value from its position. Other benefits of opting for a custom CRM system include being able to enforce more robust security measures, and being allowed to add more users at no extra cost. 

If you have the appetite to create custom-built software, you can address every single need you have, without spending money on extraneous features you never use. For many companies, regardless of size, a custom CRM system is the best fit.

3. Customizable CRM Software

Some companies are trapped in between ready-made CRM solutions that don’t have enough versatility and custom-built CRM platforms that take a long time to develop, What these companies need is a happy middle ground in the CRM market, where the available software is as easy to set up as its ready-made alternatives, but offers a level of flexibility closer to custom-built softwares. They will find what they are looking for is customizable CRM software. 

Despite the similar sounding names, there is a clear difference between custom-built and customizable CRM software. While the former is built entirely from scratch, the latter allows users to add or remove modules and workflows to the pre-existing CRM platform’s structure according to their needs. With custom-built software, no two solutions are identical, but with customizable software, the base product remains the same and only certain additional features and cosmetic elements change. 

If your company is looking for a level of customization in its CRM platform, but doesn’t want to invest the time and money that goes into developing a new software, customizable CRM solutions are your best bet.

Seven Steps in Creating a CRM from Scratch

If you’ve scanned all the CRM software available in the market and not found one that matches your needs, there’s no need to fret. You can build a custom CRM software for your business, no matter the size of your company. Many small businesses have turned to CRM solutions to improve their performance, with a Grand View Research market report saying that 91% of all businesses with 10 or more employees have already invested in CRM software

If you approach the project with a well-planned strategy, then building a CRM doesn’t have to be a daunting task that drains your company’s resources. Instead of a burden, your custom CRM software can empower your employees to perform at a higher level. 

Here’s how to approach the task of creating a CRM that is tailor-made for your company, laid out step-by-step.

1. Pre-Operational Stage

The first stage of building your own CRM platform is the most important, even though it might seem like it’s the stage where the least work gets done. This is the point where you need to clearly state the purpose of your CRM platform. That means listing the goals you wish to achieve by using the CRM platform, the users who will benefit from its adoption, and the specific benefits it will grant your business.

For example, some pre operational goals you can set for your custom-built CRM platform include:

  • Streamlining sales processes and boosting sales numbers
  • Increasing customer retention rate by identifying reasons for customer churn
  • More productive lead generation and more efficient lead management
  • Improving CX and raising the overall customer satisfaction rating of your company

As you can see, CRM systems are very versatile tools that can be put to various uses. Depending on the use case for your CRM platform, you will then be able to decide what type of CRM software you wish to implement. There are three main categories of CRM software, each with its own dedicated purpose. Let’s look at each type of CRM platform, and how they can be used.

  • Collaborative CRM System: Improves teamwork and communication within your company by promoting clear and transparent data exchanges. These types of CRM platforms have features like collective communication channels, file sharing capabilities, and activity streaming functions. 
  • Analytical CRM System: As the name implies, these types of CRMs help with making plans and drawing insights based on customer and sales data. These types of CRM platforms must have analytical processing capabilities and data mining functions.
  • Operational CRM system: This type of CRM platform is designed to make business processes run smoothly. They increase employees’ work efficiency by automating important but time-consuming marketing and customer service tasks, like lead generation or sending follow-up emails to customers.

Each type of CRM platform serves a different purpose. Still, it’s important to remember that it’s possible for a single platform to cover all these bases when you are building a CRM from scratch. You can mix-and-match different features and create a comprehensive CRM solution for your business.

2. Choosing a Development Partner

Once you have a clear vision of what you want your custom CRM software to look like, you can move on to the next step. This involves finding the right partners that will develop the software with you. At this stage, there are two options available to you. Either you go for in-house development, or you decide to rely on outsourcing the software development task to a qualified third-party.

In-house development can be tricky, especially if you don’t already have the right developers and software engineers on your payroll. While you get full control over the software development life cycle (SDLC), it comes at a high cost, which can also possibly include the cost of hiring new developers.

On the other hand, outsourced development grants you access to a pool of specialists who are well-qualified to help you design a company CRM platform. You can scale up the size of the team if you need to without having to worry about making new hires while outsourcing the CRM platform’s development. From their turnaround time to the quality of their work, third-party developers can add great value to your CRM solution’s SDLC.

If you’re convinced about hiring the services of an outsourced, third-party software developer for your custom CRM platform, then ensure you choose the right one. The development partner you decide to work with should have previous experience in building CRM software for your industry. Look at their past projects and go over reviews from earlier customers to get an idea of the quality of work they create.

3. Choosing Your CRM’s Features

Now that you have your development partner by your side, your custom-built CRM software will start to take real shape. This is the point where you meet with your software developer, and finalize the list of features to be included in the final product. The features list doesn’t have to be exhaustive. Make sure to review different combinations of features to see which ones will lead to a minimum viable product (MVP) that satisfies your company’s needs. 

Your final list of CRM software features depends on several factors: the nature of your industry, the size of your company, and the tools that are already in your technology stack. Because of these variables, no two custom-built CRM platforms are exactly the same. However, here is a short list of some commonly found features that are often included when building your own CRM software:

  • Contact management
  • Interaction tracker
  • Email marketing
  • Scheduled reminders
  • Sales automation

This list is not a complete features list by any means. Every CRM platform has up to three different modules, each with its own suite of features. The three main modules of a CRM platform are the sales, marketing, and customer support modules. When building your own CRM solution, you can pick and choose which modules you would like to include in your software, and to what extent.

4. Calculating Costs

Once you’ve created a shortlist of features and modules you want in your CRM platform, calculating the total cost of the project becomes much simpler. With clear deliverables and a framework to operate within, your software development partner will be able to provide a transparent quote with no hidden costs. 

Depending on how far you are willing to stretch your budget, you may even be able to include a few additional features at this stage. Alternatively, you might find the costs are rising too high, and will have to decide which features to forgo while developing the CRM software.

5. Designing UI/UX

There’s no point in spending money on creating a comprehensive, bespoke CRM solution for your company if your employees are unable to use it. Choosing a list of features especially because they will help employees fulfill their roles is only the start. You also need to house those features in a user-friendly CRM software. 

Your CRM software’s user interface and user experience (UI/UX) are a critical component of its ultimate success. A poorly designed UI/UX will drive users away, preventing them from accessing the many benefits of your CRM software. While functionality is a top priority when building a CRM from scratch, aesthetic appeal and ease-of-use should never be overlooked either.

6. Testing and Quality Assurance

Now that your CRM software’s features and design have been finalized, the only thing left to do is make sure the software is working as intended. Before you launch your CRM solution, you need to conduct strict testing to identify bugs and glitches in the code. Software testers play an important role in any development team, and the ones working on your CRM platform will be the ones who ensure every feature is functioning the way it should.

7. Launch and Support

After completing every step mentioned above, you’re finally ready to launch your new CRM. This is a landmark moment for your company, and to ensure your launch goes well, you must work with your development partner and create a clear strategy for migrating data from existing systems into the new CRM. 

Remember, your CRM platform is software, and software tends to become outdated within a few months. That’s why, like every other software product owner, you will now have to provide ongoing support to your CRM platform’s users. This includes regular security updates to protect data stored on the CRM platform, new features that users have been asking for, or simply routine updates to improve the quality of UX on the platform. As long as your CRM platform is in use, you will have to keep supporting the users with regular software patches.

By following the seven steps listed above, you will see that creating your own CRM system isn’t as complicated as it seemed when you first considered the notion.

Challenges in Developing a CRM Platform

It’s extremely clear that adopting a CRM platform can do wonders for your business in many key areas like sales figures and customer satisfaction. These are good enough reasons to create your own CRM. While the end result will be beneficial for your organization, it’s quite likely that you will encounter some challenges along the way.

Here are four major obstacles to achieving runaway success with your new CRM software.

1. Difficult to Implement

CRM software is a relatively new entrant in the field of business tools. As such, there is a prevalent resistance toward its adoption among professionals, particularly salespeople. A HubSpot survey found that 50% of all sales managers say a CRM is too difficult to implement in their organization.

2. Partial Adoption

Carrying on from the previous point, incomplete adoption of CRM platforms across the company can also lead to poor results. All the stakeholders need to be using the CRM for it to deliver maximum value. If a portion of the employees do not use the CRM platform, the other half who do will find it extremely difficult to communicate and share important information.

3. Manual Data Entry

The number one issue with CRM platforms is that manual data entry is extremely painstaking and has a high chance of errors. However, today’s generation of smart, artificial intelligence- (AI-) enhanced CRM softwares are able to automate those tasks, bypassing the loudest complaint against CRM platforms.

4. Calculating the Success of a CRM

Because a custom-built CRM platform is built at great expense, it’s only natural that you want to be able to measure its performance. This can be complicated, since certain aspects of a CRM’s performance are subjective. Also, your ability to measure the CRM platform’s success is tied to how clearly you stated your goals at the beginning of the SDLC. Only when you have a clearly marked frame of reference will you be able to judge the performance of your CRM system. 

Another important prerequisite to calculating the success of your CRM platform is defining user personas and mapping their journeys during the pre-operational stage. This allows you to compare the actual user experience to your theoretical user journey and identify areas where your CRM platform’s performance can be improved.

By working closely with your development partner and encouraging wholehearted participation from every other stakeholder, you can overcome most of the common challenges in developing a CRM platform.

How Much Does it Cost to Build a CRM System?

A custom CRM system is an investment in your company’s future. It’s a solution that can scale with your company as it grows, enabling you to deliver a high level of customer service and employee productivity through your operations. 

With the high ROI rates seen with CRM platforms, you can be sure you will get your money’s worth from your custom-built CRM system. This raises an important question— how much will it cost you to build your own CRM platform?

At the risk of sounding vague, there is no definitive answer for that question. 

The total cost of building your own CRM software can range from anything between $50,000 to $500,000. There are a number of factors at play that influence the cost of your CRM software. These include:

  • Number of core, standard, and extra features in your CRM platform
  • Number of roles who will access the CRM platform
  • Size of your development team
  • Expertise level of your development team
  • Additional expenses beyond development, like project management and quality assurance

When working with third-party developers, you will get a more accurate quote after arriving at an MVP for your CRM software.

Wrapping Up

If you’re ready to enjoy greater employee productivity, higher customer satisfaction, and steady sales growth, then it’s time to invest in a CRM platform for your business. Intellectsoft is an end-to-end software development company with years of experience designing CRM solutions for companies of all sizes. Whether you are simply migrating to a new platform or developing a CRM system from scratch, the experts at Intellectsoft will be able to guide you every step of the way.

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Explaining the Software Development Team Structure https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/software-development-team-structure/ Mon, 20 May 2024 11:26:27 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27656 We live in a world shaped by software developers. Every day, billions of people around the world use apps, games, websites, and other software products...

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We live in a world shaped by software developers. Every day, billions of people around the world use apps, games, websites, and other software products without really thinking about the teams that created them. But business owners can’t afford to overlook software development trends. 

Enterprise software plays a big part in finding success in a digital world. If your business is looking for software solutions to make operations smoother, you will need to keep abreast of emerging technologies in software development—and assemble a great development team.

Why Your Business Needs a Software Development Team?

Software developers and engineers have an inside joke: “Building software is like building cathedrals; first you build it, then you pray!” However, getting together a software development team with the right technical know-how can remove the uncertainties of the process. This makes it crucial to work with seasoned professionals with experience in products that are in line with the latest software development trends.

Software development is what transforms ideas into tangible digital products. It’s a process that includes ideation, creation, design, and launch of software, along with providing ongoing technical support for the software’s users. Naturally, such technical responsibilities need to be fulfilled by IT experts, which is why businesses need to assemble a qualified team that is up to date with software industry trends.

Across the world, software development trends indicate that companies spend more than $1 trillion on enterprise software every year. These software solutions help companies become more efficient by reducing costs and streamlining business processes.

Revenue of the software market worldwide from 2016 to 2027, by segment.

Whether it’s a customer-facing product or a tool for internal use, you should contact experts to help design software solutions. According to TechReport, 84.7% of software companies specialize in enterprise application development, so you will have plenty of options when looking to recruit your software development team.

What are the Major Factors That Influence the Software Development Team Structure?

Every software development project is unique. That’s why you should tailor the structure of your software development team according to each project’s stated goals and objectives and the trending technologies in software development. When assembling your software development team, there are four main factors you should consider.

Let’s take a closer look at each one of these.

Project Type and its Complexity

It’s counterproductive to assemble a software development team before the nature of the project is made clear. 

Before finding team members, ask yourself what kind of software product you want. If you are experimenting with a new idea and only want software as a proof-of-concept, a smaller team of five or fewer members will be more than enough. However, if your product is much more complex, like a market-ready e-commerce app with third-party integrations, you will need a much larger team.

As the scope of a software development team increases, so does the required team size. Software developers come in many stripes, from generalists to specialists, with hybrid developers in between. A niche software product with very specific functions will require specialists on the team, whereas a more generic product can be created by generalist and hybrid developers.

Development Budget

Good software costs money. It’s a simple fact, and the sooner you accept it, the easier it will be for you to get the most out of your software development budget. With the funds available, you can either hire full-time developers directly or contract the services of third-party software developers. It’s up to you to decide which is more cost-effective for your company. 

Once a software development project has an allocated budget, you need to find ways to maximize its usefulness. Consider focusing on high-priority features first or limiting the size of your team. When you try to pack in too many features or hire a large team without planning out each member’s roles, your expenses will go up. 

It is, therefore, advisable to ensure that the project’s budget, scope, and team composition are all aligned perfectly before starting the software development process.

Time to Develop a Project

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is good software. Rushing a software development project is a surefire way to end up with a buggy product that doesn’t perform how it should. Looming deadlines are a reality that every software development team deals with on a regular basis, but effective time management makes the process of delivering the product much less stressful.

You should carefully consider the timeline of your project when assembling a team. If you have a small software development team, you should account for the project taking longer. Larger development teams might be able to complete a project in less time, but such teams will also need to be managed closely to ensure cohesion. 

Sometimes, if you have a very tight deadline for an urgent project, you will have to bring senior specialists on board to help achieve quick results.

Size of the Project

In software development, project size refers to the number of features and functionalities that need to be added to the product. The more feature-rich a software product is, the bigger the project becomes. This means you must hire more team members to complete it successfully. 

Every additional feature added to a software product could require a specialist developer on the team to ensure it works properly. If your team is made up entirely of generalist developers, it might be smarter to limit the size of the project. 

There are two ways to account for project size during software development. In the first approach, you list out the features you want to see in the finished product and then hire a team to bring those ideas to life. On the other hand, you can assemble a team first and then work out what features will be included according to the team’s composition, specializations, and capabilities.

All of the factors mentioned above are essential when putting together a software development team. You should begin hiring software developers for a project only after its scope, size, budget, and timeline have been finalized.

Modern Software Development Team Structure

Once you have a clear understanding of all the factors that will influence your software development team’s composition, you’re almost ready to begin. 

But first, you need to decide on what approach you will follow for software development. The two most common approaches are the traditional method, which is sometimes also called the waterfall method, and the second is agile development.

The approach you choose will add clarity to exactly what roles your team will need to fill. From the coders who prepare the foundational structure of the software to the testers who comb the finished product for bugs—there are many roles in a modern software development team that need to be filled with competent professionals.

Product Owner

In software development teams, product owners are a vital link between engineers, developers, and clients. They work closely with the client to understand their business needs and define the project’s overall scope. The other important responsibility product owners have is to monitor the development team’s progress. 

The product owner’s job is to schedule tasks for developers, ensure timelines are being met, and also ensure that the promised deliverables are all being met. As the key point of contact for clients and stakeholders, product owners need to be well-informed about the customer’s product, market, and business needs. 

Business Analyst

The business analyst’s role appears to be superficially similar to that of the product owner because they both need to work with the client and development team. However, the key difference between the two is that business analysts focus much more on the technical aspect of software development, while product owners have to focus on customer satisfaction.

A software development business analyst’s main job is to work with the client to understand their business needs and then identify areas where software development can make a positive difference for them. They also need to be aware of software technology trends to create a list of requirements to take to developers, which eventually become the list of features and functions in the finished software product.

Project Manager

Software development is a team-based activity, and every team needs a captain to energize their efforts. Whether you’re using a traditional or agile approach, that captaincy role can be filled by a project manager. Project managers are the driving force behind the software development team and oversee the entire development process.

The project manager is responsible for assigning tasks to team members based on their strengths, enabling communication between them and other key stakeholders. It’s also their job to ensure that a project proceeds as planned, according to budget, and on schedule with all the promised deliverables.

Software Architect

Designing software is complicated, with many moving parts and unforeseen complications. Every team needs a software architect to navigate the complexities of software development. This will usually be the most senior software engineer on the team, and they will oversee the rest of the development team’s work and make executive decisions regarding software design. 

The software architect is the person who selects which tools and platforms the team will use to complete the project. One of their key responsibilities while overseeing the software’s architecture and components is ensuring the product is secure, meets all of the client’s technical and functional requirements, and is relevant to the current trends in software development.

Software Developer

The main body of your team will be made up of software developers. These are the team members whose output helps create the software product from the ground up. Whether you are building an entirely new software solution or making changes to an existing one, you will need to hire experienced software developers to do the job.

Every team will have a mix of developers. There are front-end developers who work on the user-facing portions of a product. There are also back-end developers who work on the inner workings of an application by writing code and devising algorithms. Then, you have full-stack developers who can work in any capacity for software development. 

Whatever the type, a successful software developer needs to be technically proficient and well-versed in a variety of computer programming languages.

Software Testing Engineer

It’s essential that your software development team includes testers if you want to create a product that users value. Software testing engineers act as your quality assurance (QA) team during development. In traditional development approaches, the testing engineers conduct tests toward the end of the software development life cycle (SDLC). 

However, when following the agile approach, testing is conducted alongside other development approaches in short sprints.

As QA testers, these engineers have to ensure the software performs according to the client’s requirements. They identify both functional and non-functional defects in the software, reporting on their findings to the developers and helping refine the product over multiple iterations.

UI/UX Designer

The UI/UX designer is a vital member of every software development team because they are responsible for curating the user experience. While front-end developers focus on the functional aspects of user-facing features, the UI/UX designer has control over how users will interact with those features.

A UI/UX designer creates every software’s visual interface. While developers have to ensure the product is functional, UI/UX designers are more interested in making the product appealing and engaging for end users. They need to have an eye for design, attention to detail, and be well-versed in using design tools.

DevOps Engineer

No software development team is complete without DevOps specialists. The DevOps engineer ensures collaboration between the developmental and operational arms of the team. They need to be well-versed in both the technical requirements of software development and the business needs of the client.

DevOps engineers are the ones responsible for the ongoing maintenance of a software product, even after the end of a development cycle. They are the ones who set up pipelines for continuous integration and continuous delivery after software has been finished. If a software product starts to display marked improvements with each successive iteration, that’s a sign that their DevOps engineer is doing a good job.

Software Development Teams vs. Development Approaches

Due to the multifaceted nature of software development, it’s worthwhile to consider different approaches to find which one works best for your needs. Projects that are smaller in scope can benefit from a sequential approach, but if there’s a chance of scope creep or the project has an extensive scope to begin with, then an agile methodology will work best.

There are several key differences between traditional (waterfall) methods and agile methods. 

Let’s take a closer look.

Traditional/Waterfall Development Agile Development
  • The development process follows sequential phases
  • The development process is broken up into two-to-four-week sprints
  • It is more suitable for projects with limited scope and minimal changes
  • It allows for scope changes and adapts to them during the development process
  • It does not involve much client participation apart from accepting deliverables
  • Requires client input and participation throughout the SDLC
  • Testing is conducted after a round of development
  • Testing is conducted simultaneously with the development
  • Follows a fixed-price model
  • Prices depend on time and scope of the project and can fluctuate during the SDLC
  • Top-down management, with a project manager overseeing results
  • Team members manage themselves, taking responsibility for their own deliverables
  • Teams are larger with no upper limit
  • Teams are smaller, with a focus on coordination and synchronization

Now that you’re familiar with the key differences between waterfall and agile development, you can make a well-informed decision based on your approach before assembling a software development team.

How to Build a Successful Software Development Team?

Once you’ve assembled a team and chosen a development approach, all that remains is to give the team the best possible environment to accomplish their goals. Successfully leading a software development team involves careful planning, smart recruitment, and cross-functional collaboration. To create the conditions for success in software development, you should follow these best practices:

  • Encourage transparent, effective, and productive communication between team members.
  • Establish clear goals and expectations and make them clear to every stakeholder on the project.
  • Empower team members to make decisions that support the team’s objectives.
  • Hire the right mix of developers, including generalists and specialists, so that every member is comfortable with their workload and caught up with the latest trends in software development.
  • Promote team cohesion, build trust between team members, and foster an attitude of shared success.

Summing Up

Software development teams perform a critical function, designing the digital tools used by consumers to connect with companies. Investing in enterprise software is a sound business decision, especially for a company that wants to enable a digital transformation in its operations. Putting together a software development team staffed by experts to fulfill each role helps create products that benefit both businesses and their customers.

It takes technical expertise to create a well-made, popular software application. If you wish to develop software for your business, you should work with a company known for excellent end-to-end software development like Intellectsoft. 

From web and mobile applications to customized software solutions, Intellectsoft has over 15 years of experience in helping companies achieve their goals with software solutions. Regardless of your industry, Intellectsoft can help you develop software technology that boosts your business’ performance and delights your customers.

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Best Software Development Trends to Follow in 2024 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/software-development-trends/ Fri, 19 Apr 2024 11:58:42 +0000 https://www.intellectsoft.net/blog/?p=27616 Constant development and innovation are at the core of software development. It is constantly evolving and always in flux. Influenced by emerging technologies, global and...

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Constant development and innovation are at the core of software development. It is constantly evolving and always in flux. Influenced by emerging technologies, global and societal demands, among other factors, software development is one area where people have to keep abreast of software development trends, news, and challenges.

In this article, we will discuss the best software development trends to follow in 2024. Staying updated on the latest software development trends allows industry players and developers to maintain a competitive edge and deliver fresh and cutting-edge solutions every time.

The Evolving Landscape of Software Development

An interesting shift happened globally post-pandemic in 2021, during which the IT sector reentered a growth trajectory after having suffered numerous project delays, cutbacks, and retrenchments during the pandemic. The post-pandemic world saw enterprises big and small recognizing the need to adopt a digital culture. After being caught unprepared when the world went into lockdown, businesses now know better than to stick to the old ways in order to keep the lights on, come what may.

Gartner reports that 91% of businesses have now launched digital transformation initiatives, with 87% of more senior business leaders highlighting that digitalization is a top priority for them. Additionally, 89% of companies have also reportedly adopted a digital-first business strategy moving forward. 

In terms of software development, Statista projects that the market is likely to garner revenues reaching $738.96 billion by 2025. Enterprise software is set to dominate the market with a projected market volume of $312.80 billion in 2025, followed by application development software ($193.30 billion), system infrastructure software ($151.20 billion), and productivity software ($81.66 billion).

Infographic of revenue in the software market by segments, USD billion

Statista also predicts that the global software developer population will hit 28.7 million this year. In terms of working arrangements, it appears that 41% of developers have continued to work remotely despite the IT industry prioritizing a return to office culture overall. 

What’s Trending in the Software Development Industry in 2024?

Among the top software industry trends in 2024 are technologies like artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cloud computing. Development, Security, and Operations (DevSecOps) practices, as well as microservices architecture are also among the latest trends in software development.

Overall, the current trends in software development are driven by previous changes in the IT sector. As mentioned, the shift to digital has catalyzed a lot of change within the industry and has since transformed the way software is developed, deployed, and maintained.

Additionally, Agile development methodologies have gained wider acceptance, allowing for shorter development cycles amid hybrid and remote work. Just a decade ago, much of this would not have been possible without the increased collaboration among teams and departments facilitated by modern technology today.

As such, many of these software engineering trends are tied to the drive toward increasingly optimized current workflows, facilitating the shift to digital, and continuing to adopt and develop emerging technologies in software development. 

Let’s take a closer look at some trending technologies in software development.

1. Increased AI and ML Integration

On top of the list of the latest trends in software development is the recent uptick in the adoption and integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) across industries. Both technologies are now widely used by software development companies across the globe to enable data-driven decision-making in businesses as well as to build predictive analytics algorithms.

Regardless of business size, we’ve seen a surge in AI and ML integration all the way from small digital marketplaces to tech giants. This integration is projected to stay on a steady growth course in the coming years. AI, in particular, is expected to surpass half a trillion dollars this year. With a CAGR of 38.1% from 2022 to 2030, the AI market is projected to become a $1.87 trillion-dollar industry by 2030.

In addition to ML, among the top AI development software technology trends include:

  • Automated Machine Learning: AutoML will be incredibly useful in simplifying incredibly complex data sets across industries
  • Generative AI: Data generated by businesses will soon be used to create original content, including videos, images, and sounds
  • Natural Language Processing (NLP): NLP is set to enrich communication between algorithms and users with more advanced natural language understanding
  • Ethical AI: Designed to bridge the gap in trust between users and technology  by reinforcing cybersecurity measures, boosting confidence in automated systems
  • AI-as-a-Service (AIaaS): Companies will begin leveraging cloud-based platforms for a variety of AI services.

2. Application of Blockchain Technology Beyond FinTech

Blockchain technology itself is not new — but this time, tech experts see blockchain disrupting the software development sector in 2024 as it goes beyond fintech.

Businesses from various industries are beginning to understand the usability and value of the technology and are starting to implement it — especially since blockchain offers incredible security thanks to decentralization. 

The rise of decentralized systems in different software development sectors like the media, publishing, supply chain tracking, and healthcare is expected to continue on its trajectory moving forward. This is because blockchain’s decentralized nature makes it transparent, virtually unhackable, and incorruptible.

Developers are continuously finding new ways to create custom software development around blockchain technology, driving the blockchain market toward a CAGR of 58.90% with a projected value of $20 billion by the end of 2024.

3. Increased Investment in Progressive Web Apps

Like blockchain technology, progressive Web Apps (PWAs) are also not new — they’ve been around since their introduction in 2015. However, it is now gaining widespread adoption and acceptance, with a CAGR of 31.9% and a projected market value of up to $10.44 billion by 2027.

It also seems that the tech industry has caught up to PWA technology, especially given the exponential increase in mobile usage over the past decade. PWAs offer an opportunity for website owners to improve their website’s user experience and aesthetics by giving them a more app-like feel.

The development scene is seeing more site owners investing in PWAs. Previously, converting to PWAs wasn’t so common, which is why Pinterest made headlines for converting. Following an analysis of areas that caused poor site performance and retention, Pinterest went through an overhaul by rebuilding the website using React and converting it into a PWA. As a result, the site enjoyed a 40% increase in time spent on the platform and 44% more revenue. This was back in 2017.

4. More Companies are Embracing Low-Code/No-Code Development

It’s no secret that developing software can be a lengthy and tedious process. Low-code and no-code development offer developers a much faster and easier way to create apps with minimum coding, allowing teams to ship in record time.

Gartner has previously projected that companies of all sizes will begin to embrace low-code development, with the adoption rate set to exceed 50% through 2026. Experts suggest that the key drivers that will accelerate the adoption of low-code and no-code development are:

  • Increase in the number of business technologists
  • Growing levels of enterprise-level hyper automation
  • Composable business initiatives

“Organizations are increasingly turning to low-code development technologies to fulfill growing demands for speed application delivery and highly customized automation workflows,” shares Varsha Mehta, Senior Market Research Specialist at Gartner. 

Basically, these development types allow teams to develop apps with a limited budget and much shorter timeframes. Low code platforms function similarly to purpose-built Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) or platforms that are specifically designed to address varying needs and challenges. Some popular low-code platforms include Mendix, Appian, and Visual LANSA.

Some examples of low-code use cases are:

  • Leveraging an existing SaaS infrastructure with customized features according to what a specific business needs
  • Transitioning to a cloud-based relational database from traditional spreadsheets
  • Converting legacy applications into modern versions

5. The Emergence of FinOps and GreenOps

The cloud computing landscape is currently ushering in the emergence of the FinOps and GreenOps movements, counting them among the latest software development trends. Given the fairly recent upheavals with regard to the way things work, more companies are recognizing how important it is to streamline operations and processes across the board.

After the pandemic, no one wants to get caught unprepared to adapt and keep up with customers’ and the market’s changing demands. Businesses are also putting more effort into sustainability while driving savings and efficiency at the core of business efforts.

In a nutshell, FinOps seeks to drive efficiency across various financial processes, whereas GreenOps focuses on implementing eco-friendly practices in line with long-term value creation. By integrating FinOps and GreenOps, businesses can work to increase their bottom line, comply with regulations, support sustainability efforts, and improve their brand reputation.

6. Serverless Computing

Serverless computing, also called Function as a Service (FaaS), allows developers to create applications and services without having to manage infrastructure, leading to better efficiency and cost savings. 

Among the leading providers are Azure Functions, AWS Lambda, and Google Cloud Functions. For example, streaming provider Netflix has started using AWS Lambda for certain functions within the platform. 

Lambda takes care of tasks such as user authentication,  encoding videos, and backend processes. This allows Netflix to scale its resources based on demand without needing to manage servers while providing a smooth user experience and cutting costs.

Spotify, on the other hand, uses Google Cloud Functions to handle tasks such as user authentication, processing user-generated content, and backend tasks for music recommendation algorithms.

7. Greater Reliance on Distributed Computing

Distributed computing is another software development trend that is gaining more popularity in 2024. Distributed computing is a way of data sharing by way of different computer servers connected as a group. 

As such, large volumes of data that may be too much work for just one server can be spread across multiple servers and thus be processed much more quickly. Distributed computing allows applications to scale accordingly by just adding servers as needed. 

Overall, distributed computing improves performance while minimizing costs. Best of all, a system failure in one server will not affect others — allowing for continuity of operations should something arise.

8. Increased Focus on Cybersecurity with DevSecOps

Development + Security + Operations is DevSecOps. In a nutshell, it’s an automation, platform design, and culture approach. It also integrates security as a crucial and shared responsibility throughout the IT lifecycle. 

Many more companies are beefing up their cybersecurity programs with DevSecOps, as it focuses on built-in security over security measures built around data and apps. DevSecOps prioritizes early detection of potential risks and fixing these vulnerabilities before they become more significant issues.

DevSecOps breaks down silos between different teams and puts security at the forefront of all commit and pull requests. Compliance is also of utmost importance in the DevSecOps pipeline, and as such, compliance and security checks are always integrated.

9. Ushering the AR/VR Era

AR and VR are no longer confined to just video games and entertainment. For clarity, whereas AR uses real-life elements supplemented with computer-generated content to create an interactive and dynamic user experience, VR is entirely a virtual, immersive simulation. 

More and more businesses are seeing the value of these technologies in 2024 and are using them to create real-world simulations for customers and stakeholders, as well as interactive training programs for employees. 

For example, large pieces of tech or machinery that cannot realistically be brought into a trade show fair can be rendered via VR or AR, allowing customers and stakeholders to “experience” what it’s like. The same applies to prototypes that may not yet be ready but already have a defined blueprint.

Also, training programs can be enriched with demonstrative and hands-on training through VR and AR, allowing staff to perfect muscle memory without even having to operate the real thing right away (like heavy machinery and other equipment).

10. Microservice Architecture

Microservices architecture in software development refers to a different approach to software development. Microservices focus on creating single-function modules with specifically defined interfaces and operations.

This is in line with Agile and DevOps and has really picked up in recent years. Microservice architecture is small in scale and independent, allowing smaller development teams to write and maintain services much quicker and more efficiently. 

In such an architecture, each layer of service is separated from the codebase, making it easy to manage. This allows developers to update and manage an app or service without needing to rebuild or redeploy the whole thing.

11. AI in Healthcare

AI offers to the medical sector what a Deloitte study revealed to be among the top three goals of AI in healthcare: Improved efficiency, lower costs, and enhanced products and services.

One of the practical ways AI can help support these goals is by developing AI software that can improve symptom analysis through patient data, automatically detect medication errors, and automate administrative tasks overall. 

Venture capitalists have also reportedly invested over $8.5 billion in the top 50 healthcare AI firms, highlighting the current importance of AI in healthcare.

12. NFT Tokens in Cryptocurrency

NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, are digital elements connected to the Blockchain. They are called such because they are non-fungible, meaning that they’re completely unique and not interchangeable. 

No two NFTs are similar, and this concept has pushed it to become a significant trend, especially concerning Blockchain-based payments in recent times. It is already one of the most common payment methods in software development outsourcing, possibly because it allows for fast, secure, reliable, and transparent payment between people. 

NFTs are projected to grow exponentially and reach $211.7 billion by 2030, with a growth rate of 34.2%. NFTs are built on smart contracts or self-executing lines of code, allowing for speedy and secure transactions.

13. React Native Continues to Thrive

The programming React Native has emerged at the top of the hybrid development market. This is because it allows developers to create high-quality cross-platform applications using a single codebase.

This allows teams to work much faster and more efficiently, cementing its status as an important tool for businesses looking to maximize their reach and streamline workflows. 

14. The Switch to 5G Technology

Alongside the rapid 5G rollout — experts predict that over 1.4 billion devices, or 15% of the global total, will be connected to this network by 2025. 

This is because 5G is more efficient than 4G. It is a new network architecture that seeks to redefine how people communicate and connect digitally, leading to enhanced user experiences. The 5G architecture is also expected to accelerate the growth of innovative technologies like the Internet of things and Artificial Intelligence (AI).

15. The Popularity of IoT is on the Rise

The widespread adoption and growth of smart devices calls for more IoT solutions, ushering in an era of more connectivity — allowing people to bridge the gap between the physical and digital. 

According to research, the global IoT market is projected to grow to $650.5 billion by 2026 and at a CAGR of 16.7%. This is because IoT has found several applications due to the rise of related technologies like AI, ML, automation through edge computing, and more.

City governments exhibit another welcome use of IoT solutions — from enhancing security to traffic congestion reduction, the goal is to streamline urban living and optimize city infrastructure with technology. Healthcare IoT gadgets are also facilitating early disease detection, providing people with better chances of recovery and healing.

16. Python Developer Demand Expected to Rise

Machine learning and data science continue to dominate several industries, causing an increased demand for experienced Python app developers. Python is often considered the ultimate Swiss knife of programming languages, as it is capable of performing numerous tasks and handling complex jobs.

Python also continues to remain versatile and relevant. From web design and app development to machine learning models, the programming language allows developers to complete projects efficiently. Among the key areas in which Python may experience an uptick in usage are game development, AI and ML applications, IoT, web and mobile apps, and automation and robotization. 

17. Web 3.0 Continues to Evolve

It is said that Web 3.0 holds the future of the Internet, as it is continuously being propelled by the latest technologies and software development processes. 

The three basic IT architecture tiers of Web 3.0 are:

  • Interaction: This refers to the content, hardware, and software that users communicate with
  • Computation: This makes up the logic to enable the interaction between users and the above elements
  • Information: Refers to the data and structure required for computing functions to be done accurately and efficiently.

Web 3.0 apps are characterized by complexity and interactivity and go a step beyond the static pages we got used to in previous web versions. JavaScript development is used to create Web 3.0 apps, making them both dynamic and responsive. 

Currently, Web 3.0 applications are already available on desktop browsers and some high-end mobile devices like smartphones with OLED panels. However, tech experts anticipated a much higher volume of Web 3.0 apps and compatible devices moving forward.

18. Cloud-Native Technologies Continue to Evolve

Cloud-native technologies and cloud-based architectures allow one to design, construct, and operate cloud-developed workloads, taking full advantage of the cloud computing model. Cloud-native prioritizes agility and better speed, allowing organizations to create strategic solutions that can support their business growth.

In 2024, cloud-native technologies will continue to evolve and increase in usage as cloud-native implementation allows developers to develop and execute scalable applications. Cloud-native apps work across modern and dynamic work environments, such as private, public, and hybrid clouds. This also covers microservices, containers,  immutable infrastructure, service meshes, and declarative APIs.

Additionally, with cloud-native stacks like DevOps and GitOps, developers can easily use continuous innovation and continuous delivery (CI/CD) to test applications while simultaneously pushing new code into production.

By leveraging cloud-native development, organizations can bank on built-in scalability and match any demand profile without investing in added infrastructure design or provisioning. Cloud-native development also allows developers to choose from various tools instead of being limited to in-the-box options.

19. The Advent of IoB (Internet of Behavior)

Personalization is an important driver of success in any business. The more effective your service is, the more your users will adapt their approach to your infrastructure. The Internet of Behavior (IoB) brings to the table important data like user behaviors, interests, and preferences from Big Data,  BI (Business Intelligence), and CDPs. 

Pulling from wearable devices, smart household electrical gadgets, and individual internet activity, IoB reveals valuable information on user behavior and their interests. IoB facilitates easier tracking, merging, and evaluating large volumes of data from various online activities and personal behaviors.

This includes things like social media habits and even commercial transactions. IoB is a little behind IoT in terms of momentum and adaptation. However, as consumers continue to gravitate toward personalization and businesses seek ways to give users a customized (yet still on-brand experience), it is highly likely that IoB will gain greater momentum. 

IoB is already being used by companies and startups. YouTube, for example, has begun to provide viewers with a more customized feed, much like Facebook and other social media platforms. Overall, IoB can help businesses resolve challenges that may hinder them from closing sales and acts much like consumer surveys without needing to expressly ask consumers about their preferences.

20. Edge Computing

Edge computing is called such because it processes data closer to the “edge” of the network or where it’s created—in an effort to greatly reduce latency and bandwidth use. According to research, the global edge computing market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 37.4% by 2027.  Fortune Business Insights projects that the global edge computing market will grow from $15.96 billion in 2023 to $139.58 billion by 2030. 

Edge computing is particularly crucial for IoT devices because they generate huge amounts of data. It can also improve privacy and security as data is kept locally. This is in opposition to centralized cloud platforms, which are not the closest to data sources. 

An increasing number of businesses have started to shift their analytics and decision-making from centralized cloud platforms to the edge.

This trend is largely driven by the observation that data captured at the edge often requires processing, storage, and analysis on-site, and it can’t always be done via cloud-based applications due to cost implications, uptime constraints, and latency issues.

Edge computing is an evolution of on-premise computing. It is technically an IT architecture that processes client data at the network’s edge, closest to the site of capture. By bringing computing closer to such data sources, edge computing is able to reduce latency and enhance real-time data processing capabilities.

Edge computing is particularly useful for applications that require immediate data analysis, such as autonomous vehicles and smart city technologies. In the field of healthcare, edge computing also ensures utmost data privacy and allows for AI-based real-time monitoring and close analysis of the patient’s condition. 

When applied in practice, this technology can transform traffic management by regulating traffic lanes, optimizing bus schedules, and even guiding autonomous vehicle flows.

21. Quantum Computing

The principles of superposition and entanglement are among the most fundamental quantum-mechanical phenomena used in quantum computing for data operations. Quantum computing is an even more advanced form of computing that uses quantum bits (called qubits) instead of classical bits.

The capacity to execute specific calculations much faster than classical computers is one of the primary advantages of quantum computing. As such, it has the potential to greatly revolutionize how machines solve intricate computational tasks, including cryptography, optimization, machine learning, and molecular simulation.

Quantum computing can be particularly useful in sectors like energy, finance, healthcare, and logistics, especially to address computational challenges that may be deemed too complex (even insurmountable) for classical computers. This includes simulating complex system behavior, decryption of cryptographic codes, and optimizing logistics networks that are incredibly large in scale.

That said, the development of quantum computing technology is still in its early stages. Researchers are currently actively engaged in building quantum computers and refining quantum algorithms, as well as software tailored for their operation. Leading companies are currently developing software to make quantum computing more accessible to a wider audience. 

These include tech industry leaders like IBM, Google, Microsoft, D-Wave, and Amazon. IBM is ahead of its peers with Quantum System One and Two, which uses powerful processors of up to 127 qubits. Microsoft, on the other hand, is focusing on topological qubits and integrating them into the already-up Azure cloud platform for wider accessibility.

Conclusion

Current software development trends are driven by the massive shift to digital, as well as the convergence between AI and new technologies that seek to improve our ways of working and living. 

Significant leaps are being made in the field of groundbreaking technologies like the Internet of Things, Internet of Behavior, and Web 3.0, as well as quantum computing — all of which can catalyze even more advancements especially when applied to city traffic, healthcare, finance, and other sectors.

Additionally, technologies that have been around for a while are now finding a firmer footing and are enjoying wider adoption. These include blockchain technology, NFTs, and PWAs, as companies see more use cases and security advantages.

Trusty programming languages like Python and JavaScript remain at the forefront of software development despite these trends. Still, newer ways of doing things — like serverless computing, edge computing, DevSecOps, FinOps, and GreenOps — are coming to the fore as workplaces continue to evolve and create new demands that developers need to address.

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Our team of experienced developers can handle projects of any type and difficulty. From simple web and mobile apps to cloud-based enterprise-level products, we’ll take your vision from the idea board and make it a reality. Get in touch with us today to consult with an expert!

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