From the recent studies, it has been identified that a large number of software development projects fail before completion. In fact, the failure percentage is high as 75%. Even if the projects are completed, they are not often being delivered in a timely manner. If you take a look at the failed software development projects, you will be able to identify some common characteristics in them. Below mentioned are some of the most common reasons out of them.
Unclear requirements
Before the software development project is started, it is important to take a look at the requirements and make sure that the development team is 100% confident about them. If the development team proceeds with unclear requirements, there is a high possibility to end up with failure. During the requirement gathering phase, it is extremely important to work along with the clients.
Then it is possible to gather clear requirements. On the other hand, all gathered requirements should be documented and get signed off by the client. If that can be done, there is a possibility to overcome most of the issues that development teams will face with unclear requirements.
Failing to review the progress of the project on a regular basis
After the kick off, it is important to review the overall progress of the project on a regular basis as well. Initial timelines and plans need to be updated along with time based on how the project is flowing. If this can be done, there is a high possibility to overcome unpleasant surprises that can take place in the long run. Several methods are available for you to follow in order to monitor project progress on a regular basis.
Following an appropriate software development methodology such as agile can be considered as a perfect example for such a method. Svitla Systems proven custom software Development Company follows agile mainly due to the above mentioned reason. Hence, they have been able to get rid of all the surprises, which can keep the project away from completion.
Resistance shown towards change
All software development projects should be flexible. If they fail to show any flexibility towards change, they will not get completed successfully on a timely manner. By nature, human beings show a resistant towards change. That’s why it is important to find a project manager who has a flexible approach while managing the project.
A large number of software applications are also available for the project managers to ensure the success of the project. This can deliver a flexible, and a rapid response towards instances, where change is needed. If those changes can be incorporated in a timely manner, there is a high possibility to end up with a successful project.
Lack of communication
Effective communication should be present throughout a software development project. Failing to communicate effectively can lead towards the failure of software development projects as well.
Effective communications range across internal communications as well as external communications. External communications with the client should be clear and concise. Likewise, there should be transparent communication within the software development team as well. Failing to maintain such a high level of communication will eventually lead towards failure.
Setting up unrealistic expectations
This can be considered as a common mistake done by most of the software development companies out there in the world. During the initial discussions, the companies are just interested in getting the client and signing the contract. In order to do that, they tend to set up unrealistic expectations, especially on project deadlines and impress the client. No software development company should do it. If it is done, they will find it as a difficult task to complete the project in a timely manner.
As a result, the entire development project will eventually fail. However, not all companies do this mistake. That’ why it is important to move forward with Svitla Systems proven custom software Development Company, which has been able to maintain a high reputation for successful deliveries.
Lack of effectiveness from the project manager
It is important for every project to be equipped with a great project manager. Failing to have a great project manager can eventually lead towards failure of software development projects. If the project manager is efficient, the development team will become a chaotic one. Hence, the developers will often get confused. The project manager should lead and guide the team from the front. If that can be done, there is a high possibility to deliver the software to the client in a timely manner, while ensuring positive results.
Not investing on the team
The software development companies, who are struggling to deliver successful projects must go ahead and invest time as well as money in the development teams. These investments can directly contribute towards the quality of the project that is delivered to the client at the end of the day. All the team members must be empowered in order to take the maximum use out of their strengths. On the other hand, it is important to listen to the employees and figure out where they need motivation. In addition, it is important to pay attention towards all the employees.
No employee should be left ignored. If that happens, there is a possibility for the work ethics to decline along with time. As a result, the output of the entire project will become worse. Unfortunately, most of the employers believe that employee development programs are a waste of money. But they are not.
Conclusion
As you can see, many different reasons can contribute towards the failure of software development projects. If you are engaged in a software development project, it is important to see if these reasons are present within the team or company. If yes, they need to be eliminated as soon as possible, so that there is a possibility to end up with successful deliveries.
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