When we find ourselves in software development, quality means more than simply being free of errors. While detecting and fixing bugs is a fundamental part, software quality consists of several factors that ensure an application works well, provides a good user experience, and meets pre-agreed standards. Below, we describe the most important aspects that contribute to quality, which we can find within the processes and products offered by Applica:

Functionality: Functionality refers to the software’s ability to perform the specific tasks it was created for. For example, a Fintech app should be able to manage accounts, generate financial reports, and accurately calculate taxes. If such software fails to make payments or calculate taxes correctly, its functionality is compromised, which consequently affects the level of reliability.

Reliability: Reliability is the software’s ability to function without failures and in a stable manner under normal conditions. Continuing with the previous example, an indicator of reliability within a financial application could be that it is accessible and clear at all times, with well-protected and secure data, and without unexpected downtimes. This, in turn, directly contributes to the product’s usability level.

Usability: Usability refers to the ease with which users can interact with the software. A mobile banking application, for instance, should be intuitive so that users can make transfers or pay bills without needing technical assistance. If the application has a complicated design or requires multiple steps to complete simple tasks, its usability is limited, which can negatively impact the user experience and affect product acceptance.

Efficiency: Efficiency goes hand in hand with usability and is measured in terms of performance and resource usage. For example, when considering the data and information displayed by a financial application, it requires high processing power to accompany user action requests. If transactions or screen updates are delayed or consume excessive memory, causing other programs to slow down, the software’s efficiency is poor, negatively impacting the user experience.

Maintainability: Maintainability is the ease with which the software can be updated or corrected. For example, a commercial software development project could involve adding new types of products. At Applica, we always seek the best strategy for software scalability to facilitate updates and adaptations without performance issues or significant long-term costs.

Security: Security is essential to protect user information and data. In the case of a financial app, it must safeguard customers’ credit card information, include verification steps, and request appropriate documentation. If the software lacks proper encryption and protection against cyberattacks, its security is compromised, which could lead to data theft and a loss of user trust.

At Applica, software quality is based on the careful integration of essential components that allow us to develop products that meet the client’s aspirations and stand out for their reliability, usability, efficiency, and security. We are dedicated to addressing each of these aspects with care and precision at every stage of development, ensuring that our software not only meets current needs but also provides a solid and long-lasting solution over time.

By Milagros Schmidt