Software development can be challenging for most businesses, as even using other companies’ software comes with potential compliance issues. It often gets to the point where some company owners go for the bare minimum of licensing to get their software off the ground.
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The unfortunate thing about such a scenario is there was no need to cut corners. It can be surprisingly easy to make the most out of licensing and compliance, but it requires careful planning and the right mindset. Here are some reasons software should be as flexible as possible regarding software use, development, and distribution.
1 Making the maintenance aspect of the software development life cycle as easy as possible
First and foremost, the maintenance aspect of software development is usually considered the most challenging part of the life cycle. While it might be the last step, it’s also the step that lasts the longest, which means you’ll have to work hard if you intend to keep the attention of your target audience.
Flexibility in software development means the ability to make sweeping changes without putting in too much effort. Such a thing is only possible if you take the time to develop your software to make it as flexible as it can be upon release. You could potentially make such a thing easier to accomplish with the help of entitlement management systems, as they can help automate many aspects of the software development cycle. With many systems automated, it gives you more time and manpower to focus on flexibility.
2 Allowing end-users to more quickly trust your business
While it might be too much to expect end-users to read the EULA (end-user license agreement), it doesn’t change the fact that you can only gain the trust and loyalty of your audience if you earn it. You can only achieve their confidence by ensuring the product they receive is worthy of their faith.
Typically, you can accomplish such a task not necessarily by releasing a fantastic piece of software off the bat but by keeping a close eye on the flexibility of your software. Depending on their feedback, you’ll be making significant changes, and such a thing helps your business twofold. First, it shows that your company is willing to make changes. Second, it shows that your business will make changes based on user feedback. These are the keys to success and the reasons why flexibility is so vital.
3 Offering a roadmap ahead
Flexible software means the potential for significant upgrades and new releases down the road. When you grow the trust of your audience, they start to confide more in your business and offer more helpful feedback instead of just being negative for negativity’s sake. Flexible software provides a roadmap ahead as it gives you a direction you can take to expand and improve on previous projects.
Conclusion
There’s no reason not to focus on flexibility in software development. There isn’t too much effort involved, and it leads to many more benefits down the line. So flexibility should be a top priority no matter the scenario.
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