In recent times, ISVs are developing almost exclusively on cloud platforms rather than traditional architecture. But while it holds endless benefits, developing in and migrating to the cloud can present a new set of obstacles for ISVs to overcome. Below are some of the most common challenges as well as how you can get past them.
Infrastructure
Organizations in the software industry face tight budgets and deal with a cost-sensitive market, so deciding to build a cloud that runs their production software is a major development to consider. It’s important that the decision maker takes into consideration factors such as security, compliance, availability, reach, and IP protections, as these are all intrinsic to their processes. One tactic for resolving possible infrastructure issues is by isolating each server individually, this way if one of them fails, the cloud solution remains functional.
Virtualization
The first step to navigating your cloud journey is evaluating your data needs. Can it reside on a virtualized server, or does it require something more traditional? Would it be more practical for your company to implement a single or multi-tenant environment? Security is a vitally important factor for ISVs, so they do well to examine and document how data is isolated from that of others. Data that is either at rest or in transit should also be highly secured.
Organization
Many ISVs face obstacles concerning the organization of their company. Security and adherence to compliance are of high priority to these organizations, but often Operations would only see the need for security, while Development would focus exclusively on the creative end. This miscommunication was realized to be the root of many problems for a company producing software. Thus came about the DevOps movement.
Automation
Choosing the proper tools for automation can lead to less procedures for your team, increased speed, and decreased set up time. Utilizing automation for release management can lead to less errors and therefore free up more time for your team. In order to verify your product’s availability, ISVs should use automation tools to conduct regular testing with simulated disaster situations.
User Interface
Smartphones and other mobile devices have created a slew of new opportunities for organizations throughout the tech industry, but with it has also come a series of difficult decisions to make. ISVs must be able to develop flexible solutions for their users, so as to adjust to the ever-changing needs of the software industry. To simplify their product, ISVs do well to make reporting issues, finding assistance, and training users only one click away for their customers.
While ISVs may face many challenges in their industry, the benefits of heeding such advice are numerous. By establishing best practices like the ones mentioned above and implementing technology fit for your organization, ISVs can optimize their processes and enhance their product, even on a tight budget.