The following are answers to many of the common questions asked for custom software development.

Isn't custom software expensive?
Custom Software Solution is often less expensive in the long run than a standard off the shelf software. Off the shelf software has to be generic enough to fit all kinds of businesses instead of one specific business. Unless the prewritten software solution matches your needs perfectly, you will need to customize it to fit your business. Every moment you use software that does not match your business,you could be losing valuable time and money. We consider the cost of a custom software solution as an investment in your business future and it represents a substantial competitive advantage. When comparing costs between a custom solution and off the shelf software, we advise you to look ahead and consider scalability, and the costs of maintenance, upgrades, bugs, errors, etc.

Do most custom software projects fail or run over budget?
Most custom software projects fail due to poor communication, lack of clear specifications, and sometimes due to internal politics. Often times, the customer is expected to know everything and the programmers are just supposed to "execute" the client's orders.

From the beginning of the project, Bitnet Solutions maintains a very close relationship with our clients ensuring that all necessary communication takes place. We learn how you do business so that we can create a system for you without having to be told every single detail to succeed. We show you what the software will look like as it is developed, so there are no surprises at the end. When working with Bitnet Solutions, you talk directly with the people who are designing your software solution, rather than a salesperson that may over promise and under deliver. We have the experience to ask the right questions that help you get the most out of your software investment.

How much does custom software cost?
Custom software is a programmatic approach to a process that is currently done manually. Because each process is different, so is the program that replaces it. The size and complexity of the project greatly affects the cost. Just as your business differs from others, so do software that those businesses use, so without knowing your requirements, it is impossible to give exact figures on how much custom software is going to cost. Our custom software's are licensed not sold. We charge license fees for our software modules which include programming, project management, training and other labor components to complete your solutions. After we do our need analysis we prepare detail quote showing the estimated amount of license fees to design and implement your system. So for detail license fees Contact us so that we may more fully discuss the details of your needs.

What information is required to provide a price quote?
In order for us to provide a price quote to you, we must fully understand the processes that the program will be designed and develop. We will need accurate hard or soft copy samples and the sample data that is used in existing system.

What is unique about Bitnet Solutions software development process?
First, we don't start from scratch on every project. Our clients benefit from our framework of prewritten software, modules and components. This allows us to deliver more value to each customer in less time. We will carefully study your business processes and when needed, we make suggestions based on experience simplifying and improving business processes. We don't expect our clients to have all the experience and foresight that we have.

Our approach has been developed from consulting with businesses on similar projects and designing their software. We come up with ideas, suggestions, and useful features to help you save money now and down the road. All you have to do is present us with your list of problems, dreams, and the things that make your business unique.

Why not buy software and then customize it to fit my business?
When you buy an off the shelf software you may experience a lot of frustration. After you spend your money, you will begin to realize that it does not fit the way you do business. The problem is that off the shelf software is written for everyone, but not for any one business. With an off the shelf software you will waste your time either working around extra features or adding the missing features that your business needs. If you choose to customize an off the shelf software, you will be forced to redo all of the customizations every time you upgrade to the latest version.

We believe that what makes your business unique is your competitive advantage. Why not have "smart software" which works the way your business works and enhances your competitive advantage. When you decide to have Bitnet Solutions design custom software for your business, you will instantly get the features that you need and all the upgrades will be done automatically.

Why not buy a vertical solution software?
A vertical solution software is a program that is written for an entire industry, not your business specifically. If you can use a vertical software solution successfully it can be much more rewarding than a generic off the shelf software. We tend to work with companies that can't use a vertical solution, or are struggling with one. We have replaced them with our solutions. If you're in a new industry, or are an industry leader, there may not be any vertical software written that can handle your business. However, if after performing a needs analysis Bitnet Solutions finds a vertical software that matches your business well, we will recommend that you buy it.

Can I try out your custom software to see if it matches my needs?
There is too much configuration and labor involved in our custom systems to economically provide a trial. The best way of trying out the software is to look at the existing systems written by Bitnet Solutions. After you see our existing software and how we have solved problems for others, you will gain an understanding of what we do, and how we can help you. Then we can talk about the unique aspects of your business that and how we will approach a software solution for you.

How long does it take to develop the software?
Each program is unique and presents its own unique programming challenges. It is important to understand that a computer does not process information in the same way a human does. Human logic does not necessarily translate into computer logic. In other words, a process that is simple to a human may be complex to program, but a process that is complex to a human may be simple to program. A program may take as little as a day or as much as six months to develop. We will work with you to develop the program as quickly and cost-effectively as possible to meet your requirements.

Do you test your software?
Yes, all software must be tested during development. We will take all reasonable steps to ensure that all bugs are eliminated prior to delivery. However, no developer can test software as well as an end user can. Any reported bugs will be addressed in a timely manner.

Do you provide the source code for the software?
Typically the source code is not provided, but it is available for a fee negotiated prior to development.

Can all the services be customized?
Yes, all of our software can be customized.

Can I add modules at a later time?
Yes, any new functionality can be added at anytime, with minimal impact on the rest of the application.

How your custom software is managed?
Our custom software's are made up of a number of individual "modules" or mini applications, each of which manages a different business function, like sales or inventory. Each module interacts with all the other modules to update them or notify them of an activity. For example, when a product is ordered, the Sales Module notifies the Inventory module of the order and then subtracts the quantity ordered from the current inventory.

What support are you providing after I take delivery of the final software version?
We offer a 6 month free maintenance on every software piece delivered. After the free maintenance period a separate maintenance contract (for Software) might be made if necessary. The final version of your software will be delivered to you with complete documentation on how to install, use and maintain it. However, we cannot be held responsible for future changes to hardware or software such as newer versions of Operating Systems, DBMS and Programming Languages the system is written in, that may cause the program to discontinue functioning as designed. In such cases, we will be available to upgrade the software for a reasonable fee.

What industry experience do you have?
We have experience in the health, financial, manufacturing, garments, education and product distribution industries.

What programming technologies are you experts at?
We cover the range of today's technologies like C/C++, C#, Java, Perl, VB Script, Java Script, PHP, ASP, JSP, HTML, XML, XSLT, .NET, Oracle, MS SQL, MySQL, Open Source and other industry leaders.

What sort of contract do you require?
Most often, our services are fixed-bid contract, although other arrangements, such as contract under time-and-materials, can also be made. Rates vary based on the services provided and on the duration of the contract.

I didn't find an answer to my question here. What is the best way to contact you?
Phone or email during regular business hours is best. After hours, send an email or leave us a voice message and we will get back to you the next business day.

The following are answers to many of the common questions asked for Network solution.

What are managed services?
Managed services are a set of tools and services that can be used to monitor and maintain the health and performance of your network and proactively eliminate problems before they have the chance to affect system uptime.

What is network monitoring? Can you see everything I do on my computers?
Network monitoring refers to using devices and programs to monitor the status, health, availability and performance or various devices on a network. This monitoring looks at things like network connectivity, error logs, processor and disk usage and virus definitions. It does not allow someone to see data or what a user might be doing.

What is a MSP?
MSP stands for managed service provider. This refers to a company or individual who is capable of providing proactive maintenance.

What does patch update mean, and do I need it?
Patch updates are fixes or updates that are released by a software manufacturer to correct security or feature flaws in programs. Bitnet Solutions offers complete patch-update and testing services for Microsoft and other products including Windows, Office and Servers. We test and verify each update before deploying it to your system.

I have data cabling in my office, how do I know if I need to upgrade?
The only way to be certain is to have a technician come and evaluate your current network and electronically check the wiring. If your connection to the Internet or your server seems slow or is unreliable, bad wiring is a likely suspect. Bitnet Solutions uses only the best products and accessories when installing wiring to ensure the longest possible lifetime and maximum performance and reliability.

I know someone who can fix my computers, why shouldn't I just use him or her?
Computers are a business essential and continuity critical tool for your business. While your brother/sister/uncle/cousin might be a short term solution, it is much better in the long run to employ professionals. Most people who can "do computers" are not trained in how to get the most security and reliability out of computer systems. It is a much better business choice to spend a bit more money now to have trained experts install and configure your computer systems thus avoiding having to pay in lost productivity due to downtime later on.

What is OEM software?
OEM software is software that was designed to be bundled with new equipment when it is sold. For example, the version of Windows on any new PC from any computer manufacturer or reseller is OEM software. Retail software can be removed from one computer and installed on a new one within the terms of the license agreement for a particular program.

I already have a copy of Microsoft Office; can I use it on my new PC?
Please see the question about OEM software. If it is an OEM version, the answer is no. If it is a retail version, however, the license may be transferred to a new computer if the software is removed from the old one (depending on the license agreement for the version of Office you have). For more information please refer to the End User License Agreement (EULA) on your Office disk.

Can I stop my employees from accessing MySpace or other areas on the Internet?
Yes, there are many simple and affordable ways to prevent your employees or anyone else on your companies network form accessing pornographic or any other material you feel is inappropriate. There are many appliances and services available to do this, so please call us and we can find the solution that is right for you.

Viruses crashed my computer can I get any of my data back?
In almost every case the answer to this question is yes. There are companies, like Bitnet Solutions, that can recover data from computers that have been attacked by viruses. It should be noted that it is never possible to guarantee full data recovery, but it is rare that most if not all of the data from a dead computer can be recovered.

Can Bitnet Solutions help my business?
If your business has a computer, then we are one of your helping hands. We have a wide-range of highly skilled and certified technology specialists who support small and mid-size business branch offices of larger businesses. Usually our clients have between 5 and 99 users at a site and cannot justify the time and expense required to manage an IT staff. Especially when our outsourced IT specialists have access to a team of IT experts that in-house staffs don't. All businesses need IT professionals who are up-to-date on the latest technology from Microsoft, Cisco, and other hardware and software companies.

Companies find it cost effective to use our on-site or remote support on an as-needed basis for tasks such as server configuration, email migration, system upgrades, site relocation, or hardware troubleshooting.

Outsourcing your IT needs to Bitnet Solutions is a smart economic choice for companies with 5-100 computers. Outsourcing still makes good sense and we will provide IT support or customize a service plan tailored to your needs.

Does Bitnet Solutions only support Microsoft technology?
Bitnet Solutions focus is Microsoft-based technology, but Bitnet Solutions has extensive experience in the design, installation, and integration of cohesive networks from a variety of top hardware and software vendors like 3COM, Adaptec, Cisco, D-Link, HP/Compaq, Dell Computers, IBM, Intel, Lucent, Linksys, Maxtor, Netgear, Toshiba, SMC Networks, Symantec, and Trendnet. Our IT staff supports the most common small business computing platforms including Windows XP, Vista, Windows7, 2000, Windows NT server/workstation, Novell Netware 3, 4, 5, Unix, DOS or Linux.

How can you enhance my network security?
We do it all the time and we take security seriously. Our security services include a comprehensive security audit, disaster recovery, virus protection and deletion, SPAM filtering, firewall technology, ISP relationships, backup strategy definition, and planning for secure commerce.

I have two offices that I would like to share data as one network. Is this possible?
With the use of a Virtual Private Network (VPN) you can not only connect two office networks as one, you also gain the ability to work from any location securely. A VPN makes use of the public telecommunication infrastructure, maintaining privacy through the use of a tunneling protocol and security procedures. The idea of the VPN is to give the company the same capabilities at much lower cost by using the shared public infrastructure rather than a private one.

Do you offer wireless solutions?
Yes, we have expert to setup wireless data communications e.g. 802.11a, b, and g WiFi. We'll give your business access to expert support for telecommuting, mobile applications, and networking.

Can Bitnet Solutions help our business relocate our IT infrastructure?
Relocating is tricky and requires careful planning. Our expert engineers can help you plan and manage a seamless move of your IT infrastructure to a new facility, including design and setup, project management, ISP and telecommunications carrier selection and coordination, and system upgrades - all with comprehensive ongoing support.

Do you offer new ways to improve my network's performance?
We conduct quarterly review meetings with our clients to look for new ways to help improve their operations, lower costs, increase efficiencies and resolve any problems that may be arising. Our goal is help our clients be more profitable, efficient and competitive with these meetings.

Do you provide detailed invoices that clearly explain what I am paying for?
We provide detailed invoices that show what work was done, why and when so you never have to guess what you are paying for. We also double check our invoices for accuracy before they are sent to you.

Do you guarantee to complete projects on time and on budget?
Projects are fixed priced and guaranteed to be completed on time, in writing. This is important because many computer guys will only quote "time and materials," which gives them free reign to nickel and dime you as well as take as much time as needed on completing a project.

Do you provide any reports that show what you did as far as all the updates, security patches, and status of every machine on our network so we know for sure our systems have been secured and updated?
Our clients get a detailed report that shows an overall health score of their network and the updates to their antivirus, security settings, patches and other important network checks (like hard drive space, backups, etc.).

Is it standard procedure for you to provide with written, network documentation detailing what software licenses we own, critical passwords, user information, hardware inventory, etc.?
All clients receive this in written and electronic form at no additional cost. We also perform a quarterly update on this material and make sure certain key people from your organization have this information and know how to use it, giving you complete control over your network. You should never allow an IT person to have that much control over you and your company. If you get the sneaking suspicion that your current IT person is keeping this under their control as a means of job security, get rid of them (and we can help to make sure you don't suffer any ill effects). This is downright unethical and dangerous to your organization, so don't tolerate it!

Do you have other technicians or staffs who are familiar with our network in case your regular technician goes on vacation or gets sick?
Yes; and since we keep detailed network documentation (basically a blueprint of your computer network) and updates on every client's account, any of our technicians can pick up where another one has left off.

Do you insist on monitoring an offsite as well as an onsite backup?
We do not encourage our clients to use tape backups because they are incredibly unreliable. We recommend our clients have some sort of online backup service.

Do you do periodical test restores of your backups to make sure the data is not corrupt and could be restored in the event of a disaster?
We perform a monthly "fire drill" and perform a test restore from backup for our clients to make sure their data can be recovered in the event of an emergency. After all, the worst time to "test" a backup is when you desperately need it.

Do you backup our network before performing any type of project or upgrade?
We do, and that's simply as a precaution in case a hardware failure or software glitch causes a major problem.

When something goes wrong with our Internet service, phone systems, printers or other IT services, do you own the problem or do you say "that's not our problem to fix?"
We feel we should own the problem for our clients so they don't have to try and resolve any of these issues on their own - that's just plain old good service and something many computer guys won't do.

Can I use Bitnet Solutions services without purchasing a yearly service contract?
Yes, you can use our services per incident whenever the need arises.

Is Bitnet Solutions available for IT support no matter what time of day I need help?
Wouldn't it be nice if problems only happened during business hours? But we know they don't and we're ready with 24/7*365 days remote, on-site and guaranteed 2-hour on-site emergency service in the Dhaka area.

I didn't find an answer to my question here. What is the best way to contact you?
Phone or email during regular business hours is best. After hours, send an email or leave us a voice message and we will get back to you the next business day.