Quick answer
A custom software project moves through discovery, a fixed-scope quote, design and prototyping, build in short sprints, testing, launch, and ongoing support. At LOLCorp a focused first release typically reaches production in about 4–6 weeks.
1. Discovery
We learn how your business actually works: the people, the workflows, the systems and the pain points. Good discovery is mostly listening, and it prevents building the wrong thing.
2. Scope and fixed quote
The findings become a written scope and a fixed price, so you know the investment before any building starts. This is where an instant quote can give you a realistic range even earlier.
3. Design and prototype
Before heavy engineering, we prototype the interface and agree the architecture. It is far cheaper to change a clickable prototype than finished code.
4. Build in short sprints
We build in weekly increments and demonstrate working software regularly, so you can steer as it takes shape. Automated tests run continuously from the first sprint.
5. Test, secure and launch
Security, performance and permissions are checked before go-live. Deployments are designed to avoid downtime, and monitoring is in place from day one.
6. Support and grow
After launch, you can take the system in-house, since you own the code, or keep us on through a maintenance or fully managed plan to keep it secure, fast and evolving.
What you need to provide
You do not need technical knowledge. You need a decision-maker, access to the people who use the current process, and honest feedback in each demo.
Before you start, write a requirements brief and use our checklist for choosing a partner. After launch, plan for maintenance and security. The whole journey is covered in the complete custom software development guide.
Need a website rather than software? Read how to hire a website developer.
Performance and accessibility are tested before launch; see Core Web Vitals explained for what good looks like.
Frequently asked questions
How long does a custom software project take?
Focused projects typically reach a first release in about 4–6 weeks. Larger platforms are phased so you launch early and keep adding capability.
Will I see progress during the build?
Yes. Working software is demonstrated regularly, so there are no surprises at the end.
What happens after launch?
You own the code and can run it yourself, or we can maintain and manage it under a yearly plan.
Ready for a realistic number? Get an indicative price in about a minute, with no sales call.
Get an instant quoteWritten by the LOLCorp engineering team from our experience delivering custom software for UK businesses. This is general guidance, not legal or financial advice.