The most common first question is: What does it cost? Honest answer: It depends. That sounds like an excuse, but it's the heart of the matter. Custom software isn't an off-the-shelf product, it's work tailored to your problem. Still, you can get a ballpark figure without anyone taking a shot in the dark.
Why there's no fixed price
A fixed list price would mean every project is the same. It isn't. A small interface between two systems is something completely different from a full application with user management, permissions and ongoing operation. Anyone who quotes you a flat price up front without knowing your project is selling you either too much or too little.
What the price is made of
- Scope: How much does the software need to do? Every additional feature is time.
- Complexity: A simple form is built quickly. Logic with lots of special cases isn't.
- Integrations: Is it connected to other systems, an interface or a marketplace? That takes extra effort.
- Operation: Should I also host, monitor and maintain the solution, or do I hand it over completely?
Rough ballpark figures
Without knowing your project, just as a reference point: Small interfaces and extensions are often in the low four-figure range. Custom applications are well above that, depending on scope, in several stages. The price isn't due all at once, it's spread across the development.
How I set the price
After a short conversation you get an effort estimate, meaning an honest range. Once the concept is in place, you get a binding quote with scope, milestones and price, before the first line of code is written. You know in advance what you're getting, and in the end the code belongs to you, completely.
What lowers the price
- Clear scope: The more precisely it's clear what's needed, the fewer expensive detours.
- Stages instead of everything at once: You see results early and can steer while it's still cheap.
- Standard where standard is enough: Not everything has to be custom. When it's worth it is covered in Custom solution or standard software?
In short
No fixed price, but no flying blind either. After a conversation you have a range, after the concept a fixed quote. And if your budget doesn't match what you want, I'll tell you early instead of letting it get expensive.
Describe your project in a few sentences and you'll get an honest assessment. Fastest via the contact page.