It's 11pm on a Friday. Your ERP won't start. Your custom software provider assured you everything was under control. But now, you face the harsh reality: there are hidden costs and problems they didn't mention in initial meetings.
Unexpected Scope Changes
One of the most common hidden costs are scope changes. Many SMEs face this when they discover their initial needs weren't as well-defined as they thought. According to our experience in custom software projects for Spanish SMEs, 40% of projects experience a 25% budget increase due to scope changes.
Ongoing Maintenance
Custom software isn't a product you deliver and forget. It often requires ongoing maintenance to adapt to new requirements or correct errors. This is a cost many providers omit when presenting their initial proposals. On average, maintenance can represent up to 20% of the project's total cost annually.
Negotiation Strategies with Providers
Keys to Effective Negotiation
Negotiating with custom software providers can seem daunting, but it's essential to protect your company's interests. Here are some key strategies: 1. Clearly define your requirements from the start; 2. Request a detailed cost breakdown; 3. Ensure you include penalty clauses for deadline breaches.