Nowadays, software plays a key role in running daily tasks. Ready-made software may do the basics, but it often doesn’t fit how your business works. That’s where custom software comes in.
Whether you need an inventory management system for a small business or a tool to manage internal workflows, custom-built solutions give you full control. But one big question remains which is how much will it cost in 2025?
This guide gives you a simple breakdown of what affects the cost and what to expect based on your needs.
If you’re working with a custom software development company or seeking software development in Singapore, knowing the cost factors can help you plan smarter and avoid waste. Let’s explore what goes into the price of custom software today.
What Is Custom Software?
Custom software is built just for your business. You won’t find it in a store or online marketplace. It’s made to suit the way you work, not the other way around.
Many businesses grow and outpace basic software. You might need a system that tracks stock, sends order alerts, or handles many shop locations. These tasks stretch beyond what simple tools can do. In these cases, custom software lets you shape a system that fits your business just right.
A custom software development company will build your system to match your day-to-day needs. Whether it’s an inventory management system for small business or a tool that helps you manage projects, the process starts with a plan.
What Does It Cost?
There’s no fixed price, but here’s a rough guide based on real cases:
- Small systems – S$9,000 to S$11,000
- Mid-size systems – S$18,000 to S$22,000
- Large systems – S$23,000 to S$27,000
- Complex systems – S$28,000 to S$30,000
These prices can change based on features, design, and who builds it.
If you’re looking for software development in Singapore, your budget might also shift based on local market rates.
Also Read: How Custom Software Development Can Accelerate Your Business Growth
What Drives the Cost of Custom Software in 2025
When planning your software project, several key factors will shape the final cost. Let’s go through each one so you know what to expect.
1. Size of the System
The number of screens or functions matters. A basic system may need 10–25 screens. A mid-sized one might need 25–40. Large systems need more.
If you want inventory software then think about what pages you need. For example:
- Product list
- Stock levels
- Purchase orders
- Reports
The more pages, the more work.
2. Complex Features
Do you need the software to do more than store data? Will it run calculations, track orders or link to other tools?
The more features you add, the more hours it takes. A simple product tracker will cost less than a tool that forecasts demand or handles batch orders.
3. Design and User Experience
Design is not just about looks. It helps people find what they need and do their work faster. A clean layout makes the software easy to use.
Good design also helps your team avoid mistakes. And that saves time.
4. System Integration
Does your software need to connect to other tools or platforms?
You need to link your system to a delivery service, payment tool or supplier database. Some connections are easy while others are harder and need more time to get right.
For example, a custom software development company may take days to link an old system if there’s little support from the other side.
5. Data Transfer
Do you already use software now? If yes, your data may need to move to the new system. That means cleaning it, checking it and fitting it into a new setup.
This part is called migration. It can take time and raise the cost.
If you run an inventory management system for small business, you’ll want to keep your old stock records, order history, and customer data.
6. Location of the Team
Costs vary by country. Developers in the UK, Australia, or Singapore often charge more than those in some other regions.
That said, cheaper is not always better. Time zones, language and culture matter too. If you work with a local software development firm, you might find it easier to meet, test ideas and stay on track.
7. Flexible Scope
You don’t need to build everything at once. You can start with the key features and grow over time.
Think of it like building a home. You start with the rooms you need. Later, you can add a patio or a second floor.
If your budget is above S$30000, a good team can help you build a solid first version. Then, as your needs grow, you can add more features.
Why Choose Custom Software?
Ready-made software can be quick to buy, but it may not do what you need. You may work around the system, using manual workarounds or switching between tools.
Custom software fits your process. It’s built to solve your problems, not someone else’s.
Let’s say you run a small chain of shops. A generic system might show stock levels, but not across branches. A custom system can do that and more.
An inventory software tool made for you can:
- Show what’s in stock at each location
- Help staff reorder before items run out
- Track what sells best by season or day
That’s how custom tools help you save time and reduce waste.
Real Examples
Here are some common cases where custom software makes sense:
- A food supplier wants to track orders and deliveries in one place.
- A shop owner needs a full inventory management system for a small business with mobile access.
- A warehouse team needs alerts when items fall below set levels.
- A growing firm wants software development in Singapore to match local needs and rules.
These needs are hard to meet with off-the-shelf tools. That’s why many firms choose to build their own.
Conclusion
Custom software is an investment that gives back. It helps your team work faster, reduces manual tasks and supports your long-term goals. While the cost may seem high at first, the value lies in how well the system fits your needs.
Whether you’re building a simple inventory software or a complex tool for operations, knowing the cost drivers helps you plan better. A good custom software development company will guide you through the process and build a system that grows with you.
If you’re considering software development in Singapore or anywhere else, take the time to map out your goals and budget. With clear planning, your custom software will not just support your business but it will help it move forward with confidence.
At Genic Solutions, we specialise in crafting custom software that meets your exact business needs. From inventory management to enterprise systems, our Singapore-based team delivers quality solutions built to grow with you.
Partner with us today and discover how tailored software can transform your operations.
