To determine software application cost, if clear cut functionality and requirements is listed out then to an extent we can bid a cost .
But there still lies a doubt about how accurately the cost can be predicted.
An application development can be with few noisy coins or with fancy currency notes. But, by the end of the day what matters is if the output obtained is worth your pay.
Before an application is created, questions such as “ What will be the cost ?“ “Could u tell me the estimate” will be a usual question and consultants come across these queries more often.
Software application cost is purely based on features, complexity and platform used. Also there will be significant difference between engaging a freelancer, off-shore development team or a prominent developer.
The features and requirements can go on elaborating from time to time. Even if the feature seems to be small, only a developer might be able to say the depth of the feature and its impact on the neighboring feature.
Thus features can help determine software application cost to a great margin.
Complexity is a byproduct of the software features. On a single look certain modules within the application can look simple but it will be severely coupled making it complex.
This may further consume more time and proportionally affect the cost.
The cost with respect to features and complexity is managable at any point in time. But, when it comes to who handles your software development and what their charges might be is an important decision affecting the cost chart.
Prominent developers are usually opted since its risk free. Also for the fancy brand name to be told when telling to a 3rd person. But do we really dig up on how much effort these big-shot people have put or if that’s the maximum productivity that we would have got???
Approaching a start-up or freelancer is like stepping on stumbling stone.
There will be no clarity regarding when the project will reach its beta stage or even if it would reach to that extend.
It’s always better to go to an intermediate firm. These companies will have skilled technical side to broaden the concepts in all aspects followed by strong interactive methodology. Thereby making sure that they are available to solve the griefs of the client at any point of the day.
So the point here is, cost is directly proportional to functionality,complexity and the people handling it.