Custom Software Development (Switzerland): Costs and Benefits

Patrick Büchler
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Patrick Büchler
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Having custom software developed means to strategically digitize your processes and retain full control over functions, costs, and further development.

This is especially important:

  • You get a solution that integrates seamlessly into your existing systems and grows with your company.
  • Your investment remains predictable because functions, effort, and operating costs are made transparent from the start.
  • With an experienced partner, you ensure that your software runs stably in the long term and can be continuously modernized.

Why Companies Choose Custom Software

Imagine your processes are running on Excel spreadsheets, isolated solutions, or outdated tools. At some point, your software hits its limits: data is cluttered, interfaces are missing, and adjustments take forever. This is exactly where a custom software solution comes into play, one that precisely addresses the challenges and goals of your industry and translates them into concrete digital solutions.

Companies in Switzerland are increasingly opting to have their own software developed because they gain control, security, and competitive advantages. The software is tailored precisely to the company’s requirements, whether through a requirements specification or by jointly defining the goals. But the decisive question is: What does it cost to have software developed, and is it worth it?

Benefits of Custom Software Development

  • Perfect Fit

    Your own software is precisely tailored to your processes and requirements.

  • Flexibility

    Your own software can be extended at any time as your company grows.

  • Security & Ownership

    You retain the rights to the code and are independent of third-party providers.

  • Competitive Advantages

    With features developed specifically for you, your company stands out from the competition.

How much does custom software development cost in Switzerland?

The prices for custom software development are influenced by various factors and consist of two components:

  1. Initial Costs: Costs for the design, development, and implementation of a software. These can vary greatly depending on complexity and typically range between CHF 20,000 and CHF 200,000.
  2. Operational Costs: Costs that arise for the operation and maintenance of the software after implementation. These costs vary depending on the Service Level Agreement.
1. Software Type
2. Timeframe
3. Cost Range
Small Web App
1-3 months
CHF 30,000 to 80,000
Enterprise Tool (e.g., for production/logistics)
6-12 months
CHF 120,000 to 400,000
Complex Platform (e.g., MES or IoT integration)
12+ months
from CHF 400,000

Enterprise App for Stadler Rail

Enterprise App for Stadler Rail
  • 1 Project Overview

    Stadler Rail stands for the highest quality, sustainability, and most modern manufacturing technologies in the construction of rail vehicles. To ensure a high standard of quality control even with growing production, soxes and Stadler collaborated to develop a mobile application that digitizes and automates the entire inspection process.

  • 2 Challenge

    With the expansion of production and service, there was an increasing shortage of qualified specialists for inspections. The question was how to efficiently support these experts so that inspections could be documented more quickly and reports could be processed without delays.

  • 3 Solution

    soxes designed and developed a native Android app that digitally maps all relevant process steps. From the integration of order and vehicle data to image uploads and an intelligent speech-to-text function, all inspections are documented efficiently. Reports are generated automatically and are forwarded directly to the technician teams always mobile, on-site, and with the highest security standards.

  • 4 Result

    Since 2021, the Stadler Rail Inspection App has been in use worldwide and has reduced the processing time per inspection by approximately 30 percent. This allows experts to focus on their core tasks, while processes run significantly more efficiently. The result: less paperwork, faster maintenance, and greater security.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Custom Software Solutions?

Software Complexity

The degree of complexity is determined by the requirements for the software solution. A high complexity is present when the software application needs to handle complex analyses, evaluations, calculations, and security requirements. This calls for high-quality programming work.

Functionality and Design

The more functions a software is meant to represent, the higher the development effort. A simple web app with basic functions is realized much faster than a complex enterprise system with user management, reporting, interfaces, and automations. The scope of functionality is therefore the most important cost and time factor.

Software System Integrations

Custom software often needs to be connected to existing systems, whether it’s an ERP, a production system, or even machine controls in manufacturing. The more complex the integrations, the more development time is required. At the same time, this is where the greatest added value is created, because smooth data flows make processes significantly more efficient.

Quality and Security Requirements

Companies in regulated industries or with sensitive data have increased requirements for quality and security. This includes standards like ISO 27001, regular code reviews, data protection regulations (DSG/DSGVO), or security checks. These measures increase the effort but ensure that the solution remains stable, secure, and trustworthy in the long term.

Project Organization

How a project is managed strongly influences costs and speed. With an agile approach with clearly defined milestones, clients see regular progress and maintain full control over budget and functionality. At the same time, requirements can be flexibly adjusted without jeopardizing the entire project plan.
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Why Having Software Developed is Worthwhile

Prices for software programming vary widely. If you are considering having custom software developed, you should get a clear picture of the costs and benefits of your application as quickly as possible. To do this, sit down with experienced software developers and system architects. Custom software is an investment in the future of your company. It brings clarity to processes, reduces costs, and creates competitive advantages.

When choosing your development partner, it’s worth playing it safe. Since many software development projects are strategically important, we advise you to have certified professionals design and develop your software. In addition to more than 24 years of experience, soxes holds an ISO certification in software security.

Would you like to first learn more about soxes’ competencies in the field of custom software development or about our approach in general?

Frequently asked questions

  • How much does it cost to have custom software developed?

    Costs depend on the scope of functions, the technologies used, and the integrations. In Switzerland, small web applications start from around CHF 30,000, while complex enterprise solutions can cost several hundred thousand francs. At soxes, you'll receive a transparent cost estimate with clear milestones.

  • How long does it take to develop custom software?

    Depending on the project's scope, development takes between 3 months for smaller solutions and 12 months or longer for complex platforms.

  • Why is custom software worthwhile compared to standard solutions?

    Standard solutions are often cheaper to purchase but quickly reach their limits. With custom software from soxes, you get a solution that perfectly fits your processes, can be easily expanded, and gives you long-term independence from third-party providers.

  • What technologies does soxes use for software development?

    We work with modern technologies like .NET, Python, Angular, microservices, and cloud platforms (Azure, AWS). The choice depends on your specific requirements.

  • Can existing software be modernized instead of being newly developed?

    Yes. Many companies initially opt for a modernization if their existing systems are stable but technically outdated. In an analysis, soxes determines whether a gradual modernization or a new development makes more sense.

  • How is it ensured that my software is secure?

    soxes is ISO 27001 certified and relies on regular code reviews, security checks, and documented processes. This ensures that your software meets the highest security and quality standards.

  • Does soxes also handle maintenance and support?

    Yes. We not only develop software but also take on support, operations, and further development. Many clients hire us for the long term to ensure their applications remain stable and future-proof.

  • How do I avoid dependencies on individual developers?

    With soxes, you get an entire team instead of just one individual. We document every solution comprehensively so your company isn't dependent on the knowledge of a single person.

  • In what industries does soxes have experience?

    soxes has more than 24 years of experience in industries such as production, finance, insurance, medical technology, and the public sector.

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Sofia Steninger

Sofia Steninger
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