It’s the era of software projects, be it mobile phone software Apps, front end developments or a current seasonal project it’s clear that there has been a lot of growth in the software development industry. This is good as it comes with a lot of pressure and competition from all corners. Also, is positive for overall industry growth.
Certainly, the past few years have seen a rise and healthy progression in the technology industry. For example, we have seen smartphones and Apps becoming our daily staples. Also, the manufacturers and developers have catered to all users’ tastes across the board. This is just one indication that everyone is fascinated with technology. You might say that the proliferation of technology has driven the tremendous growth seen in the software development industry as a whole.
In fact, it is an already common sight to see companies rise from nothing to multi-billion enterprises because of the software they invented. Clearly some sort of pressure and need to compete is a healthy and fertile playground for the industry. Therefore, it is no surprise that many projects come out, and many failing at the first hurdle. Additionally, the volume of start-up software projects is increasing and it’s logical to assume that the current rate of failure will hold at its current rate. Here are five reasons why software projects fail,
1. Poor planning for software projects
Poor planning is one of the main things that lead to project failure. You will set yourself up with unrealistic expectations that will throw the budget out of the window entirely. In addition, time-frame issues quickly catch up with you leaving a lack of room for flexibility or adjustments when it comes to milestone deliverables.
Therefore, companies should plan to the nth degree for their software projects, ensuring capacity is left for the unknown unknowns. In order to do this, the project manager will need to understand the entire project ‘end to end’ and have a clear handle on the deliverables at each stage of development.
2. Inadequate/ Insufficient details of the scope/ requirements in the software project requirements documentation
Lack of enough information and improper preparation with information can lead to the project getting stuck and even failed. This would usually be the responsibility of the Business Analyst (which could also be the account manager or project manager). If the person does not obtain sufficient information in the discovery phase it will affect the entire project. It is vital for the analyst to check any competitor’s software, analyse the market, check what new process is being implemented to specify how it is to be developed.
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Proper analysis of the market, competition and general landscape will close any loopholes in delivery. Remember, analyse the development cost and compare it to the pre-sale plan.
3. Rushed software projects and competition
It is a first-come, first-served race. The first one to market and make something unique and beautiful wins, whereas others lose. In reality, not everyone can think of unique Apps and many try to copy others which results in failure. They are rushing just to compete and not to give a quality end product.
4. Software projects fail because of lack of experience and flexibility
We should know when to accept changes during the project and when to agree to variations for the work that may not have been considered (or applicable) earlier. In fact, this is the only way to stay straight and on the plan if anything unexpected comes up. Additionally, the entire project can come to a halt if you can’t take fast decisions and verify what is in the scope and what’s out of it. Therefore, as a project progresses, more desired features and functionality can come to light and you (or your developer) need to assess these and decide whether to include in the first iteration or put it on the feature request queue for next time.
5. Software projects fail because of Improper test case coverage
The software testing team should have early engagement with the software development team. In fact, communication between the entire team is vital for the project. This is so they ensure that every detail of requirements and scope is captured in the test cases. What is more, improper test case coverage is one of the prime reasons for software project failure.
Software that doesn’t work is buggy or generally irritating for end users will not be successful. Full stop.
