Why should we use Scorchsoft over another agency?
Scorchsoft is usually the right fit when your project has business importance, technical complexity, or a need for careful judgement. We are not just here to write code from a brief; we help you challenge assumptions, reduce risk, and shape the right solution before money is spent building the wrong thing.
We have over sixteen years of experience solving a wide range of technical and business challenges, from working alongside existing development teams and supporting legacy systems, to building complex features and integrating systems, processes, and applications.
If you are simply looking for the cheapest build-only supplier, we may not be the best match. If you want a team that can think commercially, communicate clearly, and deliver robust software that supports your wider goals, Scorchsoft is likely worth speaking to.
I am overwhelmed by what to do next. Do you have a guide to help me?
Yes. We work with clients from a wide range of backgrounds and technical abilities, so you do not need to have everything figured out before speaking to us. If you are unsure whether now is the right time to reach out, we are happy to listen, understand where you are in the journey, and see whether we can help.
If you are not quite ready to get in touch, we have also created resources to help you move forward. Our founder and Managing Director, Andrew, has written a book called Execute Your Tech Idea. It covers finding ideas, qualifying them, raising money, prioritising your project, project management, marketing, and more.
The book is written for non-technical readers and is relevant to internal tech tools, products, apps, web services, databases, IoT, web apps, and other software projects. It is useful for managers, professionals in established teams, and start-ups. You can get the book on Amazon UK, Amazon US, or other Amazon territories.
When you feel ready, you can contact us or request a quote.
How can I find out whether AI could disrupt my business?
If you are exploring where AI could create risk or opportunity, start with our AI disruption risk report. It helps you assess competitor threat, automation opportunities, data readiness, team adoption, and investment priorities, so you can identify where AI could affect your business and where you should focus first.
How do I know whether this is worth building?
A software project is usually worth exploring when the problem is expensive, frequent, strategically important, or difficult to solve with off-the-shelf tools. If the idea only creates a small convenience, or if an existing product already solves most of the problem, custom development may not be the right first step.
When we speak with you, we will help you test the commercial case, clarify the value, and decide whether the project is worth pursuing before you commit to a larger build.
What if I am not ready to build yet?
That is completely fine. Many clients speak to us before they are ready to start development. We can help you understand your options, sense-check the idea, identify risks, and decide what needs to happen before a build would make sense.
If the best next step is research, process mapping, prototyping, an AI disruption assessment, or no project at all, we will tell you. The aim is not to push you into development; it is to help you make a good decision.
What makes a project a poor fit for Scorchsoft?
We are not usually the right fit for projects where the only priority is the lowest possible cost, where there is no clear business owner, or where the requirements are expected to change without active collaboration. Good software needs clear goals, honest communication, and sensible decision-making from both sides.
If your project needs a thoughtful technical partner who can challenge assumptions and help shape the right solution, we are much more likely to be a good fit.
Can you give me a fixed-price quote?
Yes, we can.
We offer several ways to start a project. Some give you greater cost certainty, while others prioritise speed and help you reach a minimum viable product as quickly as possible.
The right pricing approach depends on what matters most to you. If the scope is clear and cost certainty is important, a fixed-price approach may work well. If the priority is speed, flexibility, or rapid learning, a more iterative approach may be better.
Either way, we will help you understand the trade-offs before you commit.
Can you give me a ballpark quote?
Yes. We will always try to give you a ballpark or approximate price as early as possible, usually during your first call or email exchange. A rough idea of expected cost helps you decide whether the project is commercially feasible before investing more time into detailed planning.
Ballpark estimates are educated guesses based on our experience, so the final cost may go up or down once we explore your requirements in more detail. The more information you can provide, the more accurate our estimate is likely to be.
We will also help you think about whether the likely investment makes sense against the value of the problem you are solving. If the commercial case looks weak, we would rather identify that early than encourage you into a project that should not happen.
I’ve got an idea. Where do I start?
Start by clarifying the problem you are trying to solve, who it affects, and why it matters. The idea itself is important, but the value usually comes from understanding the pain, the people involved, and what a successful outcome would look like.
If you share your idea through this form, one of our team will respond within one working day by email or phone. If you would prefer to speak to us directly, call 0121 724 0447, and one of the team will talk through your idea and project with you.
Scorchsoft is a collaborative business. We aim to build strong working relationships with our clients, and we are happy to help you understand whether your idea is worth exploring, what the next step should be, and whether we are the right fit to support it.
Can you build apps for both iOS and Android?
Often, yes — but the better question is whether your users genuinely need both platforms from day one.
Most of the apps we build support both iOS and Android. Many clients also want their applications to work across web and mobile devices, so we often use frameworks such as React and React Native or Flutter by Google to support multiple platforms efficiently.
That said, if speed, budget, or validation matter most, we may recommend launching on the platform that gives you the fastest route to evidence before expanding further. We base this decision on your users, technical requirements, commercial priorities, and long-term plans.
Do you build web applications too?
Yes. Scorchsoft has extensive experience building web applications, and we can develop new web apps or support existing ones.
Clients often come to us with specific ideas about how their web app or progressive web app should function, or with particular technologies they want to use. If you have preferences for your project, share them with us when you get in touch and we will let you know whether we can accommodate them.
How do you make sure you build what I want — and get it right?
We do this either by iterating quickly, so you can see progress and give feedback as we go, or by creating clear project documentation such as technical specifications, wireframes, and acceptance criteria.
Before we build, we also try to understand the reason behind the requirement. That matters because sometimes the requested feature is not the best way to solve the actual problem. Where appropriate, we will challenge assumptions, suggest alternatives, and help you make decisions that are easier to defend commercially and technically.
We have extensive experience delivering technically complex projects, and that experience has helped us develop a reliable delivery process. The aim is simple: clear communication, strong project control, and software that meets the agreed requirements.
What kind of support will I receive throughout the development process?
We support clients in several ways, including regular meetings, project updates, status reports, and direct communication with the project team. We want you to stay informed throughout the process, so you can have confidence in both the delivery and the decisions being made.
If you have specific expectations around project management, such as how often you want updates, what documentation you need, or what support you expect after launch, let us know. We will do our best to accommodate your requirements.
Can you continue my vibe-coded app from where I’ve left off?
Yes, we have worked with several clients who have done exactly that. They have vibe-coded a basic prototype, then reached a point where the requirements become too complex to move forward confidently. We often find that people can create a visual version of an app without a back end, but struggle when the application needs robust functionality, data handling, security, integrations, or scalability.
If you have vibe-coded something and want us to review it, send it over. We will take a look and let you know how we can help. In some cases, your existing work can act as a useful prototype. In others, we may need to rebuild parts of it properly, but your prototype still gives us a clear understanding of what you want to achieve.
We also have specialised project management methods for taking over partially built projects, and we offer a dedicated app project rescue service for situations like these.
Will I own the source code?
You will typically be assigned appropriate copyright or licence rights for the bespoke code we write for your project. We are transparent about intellectual property rights, and you will have the opportunity to review our code ownership terms before the project begins.
How do you keep my app and data secure?
Scorchsoft follows Cyber Essentials guidelines to help ensure our people, passwords, systems, and networks meet recognised security standards.
We do not publish every detail of our security setup, because that would rather defeat the point, but here is an overview of some of the key measures we take:
- Server code runs over HTTPS with a secure SSL certificate.
- Passwords are stored as hashed strings with a unique salt per user.
- Where appropriate, sensitive data can be protected using encryption.
- We use secure development frameworks such as Laravel, Flask, and ExpressJS, which help prevent common threats such as SQL injection, XSS, CSRF, and unauthorised file access.
- Debugging is only enabled on test servers, not live environments.
- Our code is regularly scanned for vulnerabilities using third-party security tools.
- Developers use SSH keys for secure access when deploying code.
- Hosted servers are backed up daily, both on-site and off-site in a secure UK-based location.
- We can integrate with secure content delivery networks such as Cloudflare or Akamai to help protect against DDoS attacks, improve performance, and hide server IP addresses.
- Payment handling uses PCI-compliant systems to protect cardholder data.
- Staff receive security training, follow strict internal policies, and work under NDA.
- For enterprise projects, we can offer security and vulnerability audits using industry-standard penetration testing tools.
These steps help protect your project at multiple levels.
Scorchsoft works with a wide range of technologies, so the exact security approach may vary depending on the project. If you have specific security requirements or preferred technologies, let us know and we will confirm whether we can accommodate them.
How long will it take to build and launch my app?
Timelines vary depending on the project and the delivery approach. Some projects benefit from a slower, more methodical process and may take three to six months. Others can move much faster, with a first version delivered in as little as four to eight weeks.
The right approach depends on the complexity of the project, how quickly decisions can be made, how much detail is already known, and how available you are to support a rapid, iterative process. Your feedback speed matters too, because software projects move faster when both sides stay engaged.
We can talk through the options with you and recommend the best fit for your project.
Do you provide ongoing support, maintenance, and updates?
Yes. We offer a range of support and maintenance options. Baseline support covers essential updates and remedial work, while our advanced packages can include comprehensive support, maintenance, agile retainers, change requests, and ongoing product development.
If you are unsure which option you need, tell us about your requirements and we will recommend a suitable package or create a tailored support plan.
Can I make changes to my app after it has launched?
Yes. Just because we have built something does not mean it cannot change. For example, we can make parts of your app editable through a content management system, so your team can update content themselves. If you have additional features in mind, we can often extend the application over time as part of your product roadmap.
Some future changes depend on architectural decisions made early in the project. We may need to build certain features in a particular way to support later extensions, so it is worth discussing your longer-term goals with our technical team as early as possible.
The more you tell us about your future plans, the better we can advise you on how to structure the application for growth.
What programming languages and frameworks do you use?
Scorchsoft has a broad development team with experience across a wide range of technologies. For mobile applications, we often use front-end frameworks such as React Native and Flutter. We can also support native mobile development where it is the right fit.
For back-end development, we commonly use Python, PHP with Laravel, and Node.js. However, our team has worked with many other back-end languages and technologies, so these are not the only options we can support.
We follow best practice to support scalability while avoiding unnecessary technical overhead. Our goal is to recommend the technology approach that best suits the size, scale, purpose, and future direction of your application.
If you do not have a preferred technology stack, we are happy to advise you. If you already have one in mind, tell us and we will confirm whether we can support it.
Can we connect our existing web systems, tools, websites, CRM, or other platforms?
Yes. We have extensive experience integrating third-party systems and existing platforms. Before we start, we need to understand what you use, what you want to achieve, and whether the systems involved can support the required level of integration.
We usually audit the systems we plan to connect with, so we can check compatibility and identify any risks before development begins. While we have a strong track record with third-party integrations, this step helps ensure the solution will work effectively for your needs.
Please contact us about your requirements, and we will advise on what we think is possible.
I want to take payments. How does this work?
Payment handling can seem straightforward, but the best approach depends on what you are selling, where you are selling it, and how users will access your product.
For example, if you have a mobile app and want to accept in-app payments, the type of product or feature you are selling may determine whether you can use providers such as Stripe or PayPal, or whether you need to use Apple or Google’s in-app payment systems.
Our team can help you understand the options and recommend the best approach for your situation.
Are you able to work with our existing technical, design, or marketing team?
Yes. We have extensive experience working alongside internal technical, design, and marketing teams.
The best collaboration model depends on your team’s working culture, how you prefer to communicate, the technologies you use, and the kind of support you need from us. If you are unsure how we could work together, one of our team can talk through the options and help determine whether we would be a good fit.
Do you offer graphic design and interface design services?
Yes. Scorchsoft has an in-house design team that creates visual assets, branding elements, and user experience-led interfaces for complex applications.
We already have designs. Can you work with those?
Yes, we can often work with third-party designs if they are production-ready. If they are not quite ready for development, we can help turn them into production-ready designs as part of our service.
If you are unsure, send us what you have created so far. We will review it, advise on the best way forward, and let you know whether we can work with the assets you have supplied.
Do I need to worry about GDPR?
Almost certainly. GDPR may affect your business if you have a website, store customer data, or process personal information. If you get it wrong, the consequences can be serious, so it is worth taking the rules seriously from the start.
We appreciate this is a complex topic, so we have written an article on how to prepare for GDPR with practical tips to help you understand what to consider.
Can you provide hosting for our website or app?
Yes.
If your website or app has modest resource requirements, we can host it on our managed servers. If you have specific hosting needs, high traffic expectations, intensive processing requirements, or require a more specialist setup, we can configure dedicated, cloud, or load-balanced hosting environments.
For example, if your application needs to handle high volumes of processing and global traffic, we may recommend a bespoke multi-server hosting setup using services such as Amazon EC2, CloudFront, Elastic Load Balancing, and S3 storage.
If you are unsure what you need, we can help you start with a suitable hosting setup and move to a more advanced configuration later if your requirements grow.
How will you handle project management?
The project management approach we recommend depends on your goals. For example, you may value a fixed cost and a detailed upfront planning phase, or you may prefer to move quickly and deliver a minimum viable product as soon as possible.
We also offer an approach called velocity sprints, where we optimise the process for speed and rapid updates. However, fast does not mean uncontrolled. Whatever approach we use, we still manage the project carefully.
If you speak with our team and share your aims, your project context, and what matters most to you, we can explain the different options and help you choose the best fit.
You can also find more information on our services page.
How does testing work, and am I involved?
Scorchsoft uses several testing approaches to improve reliability. These can include unit testing, development testing, regression testing, and internal release testing before we hand the product over to you.
At the end of a project, or at suitable points during development, we will give you the opportunity to carry out user acceptance testing. This helps confirm that the application meets your requirements. The timing and structure of user acceptance testing depends on the project management approach, whether that is waterfall, agile, or velocity sprints.
Yes, we involve you in testing. We value client feedback and want you to be actively involved in assessing the delivery, while also making sure you do not need to spend unnecessary time reporting obvious issues. Our team’s focus is on robust, reliable delivery.
Do you have a UK team?
Yes. We have a team of approximately 20 people based in the UK.
Does Scorchsoft write unit tests as part of the development process?
Yes. We can include automated unit testing in our development process and follow Test-Driven Development principles where appropriate. The level of testing depends on your preferences, the project requirements, and the right balance between robustness, speed, and cost.
How will you handle project payments from us?
We usually structure payments in phases that align with project milestones. This gives both sides a clear understanding of when payments are due and what each phase is expected to deliver.
Can I patent my app idea, and can Scorchsoft advise on software patents?
Scorchsoft’s team specialises in designing and developing software, but we are not qualified to provide legal advice, including advice on patents. For patent-related questions, you should speak to a specialist patent solicitor with software expertise.
Patenting software can be complex, costly, and time-consuming, especially if you want protection in multiple territories. It usually requires a strong case for patentability, significant financial resources, and a clear understanding of how the software is technically innovative.
That said, we may be able to support your patent solicitor by providing relevant technical documentation. If you decide to pursue a patent and your solicitor needs technical specifications, wireframes, or other information about your software project, let us know. We can estimate the work involved in preparing those materials.
If you are exploring ways to protect your idea, patents are not the only option. Many technology businesses also use trademarks, copyright protection, non-disclosure agreements, network effects, operational advantages, and ongoing innovation to strengthen their position. The Doblin ten types of innovation is a useful framework for thinking more broadly about competitive advantage.
If you speak with a patent solicitor and they identify anything they need from us, please get in touch and we will provide an estimate for the support required.
Do you have any book recommendations that could help me with my project?
Yes. Our Managing Director, Andrew, has written technology books to help people plan, qualify, and deliver software projects more effectively.
Execute Your Tech Idea gives you a practical guide to finding, qualifying, implementing, and launching a technology idea. It is written in plain English for non-technical readers and helps you understand the essential concepts without becoming overwhelmed.
The ChatGPT Guide for Business
The ChatGPT Guide for Business is a quick-start guide to effective AI use and prompt engineering in work and business.
It includes practical applications and techniques to help you use AI to improve productivity, support business communication, assist project management, strengthen marketing, and gain a competitive edge while using AI responsibly.
We also recommend the following books:
This book is not just for start-up entrepreneurs. It is also useful for existing businesses launching new products. It covers effective ways to launch, test, learn, and reduce waste when developing a new technology product.
Building a product is only part of the challenge. Traction explains how businesses have used different marketing channels to achieve growth.
If you are a UK start-up exploring how to fund your venture, this book covers finance options including loans, accelerator programmes, angel investors, and equity investment.
I have a question that isn’t listed here
Please let us know.
Do you offer work experience?
We do not offer formal in-person work experience placements. As a small, busy team, we receive more requests than we could accommodate, sometimes several every day, so unfortunately we cannot support ad-hoc placements either.
Instead, we have created a Work Experience Guide to help students build practical experience independently. This is often a faster and more effective route. If you complete a project using the guide, you are welcome to send it to us. We can provide constructive feedback in lieu of an in-person placement and write a feedback letter that you can show to your school or potential employers.
This approach enables us to support far more people than we could through in-person placements alone.
How do we know whether AI is the right solution?
AI is worth exploring when it can reduce repetitive work, improve decision-making, speed up a process, personalise an experience, or unlock value from data that is currently hard to use. It is not always the right answer, though. Sometimes a simpler workflow change, better integration, or standard automation will deliver the same benefit with less cost and risk.
When we speak with you, we will help you understand whether AI genuinely adds value or whether another approach would be more sensible.
Should we build a bespoke AI system or use an off-the-shelf tool?
It depends on the problem, the data, the level of control required, and whether existing tools already solve most of the need. If an off-the-shelf product can deliver most of the value quickly and safely, we will say so. Bespoke development usually makes more sense when the AI needs to connect deeply with your systems, follow your specific business logic, use your proprietary data, or create a capability that gives you a competitive advantage.
Our role is to help you make a clear build-versus-buy decision, so your investment goes where it will create the most value.
Can you integrate AI into our existing systems?
Yes. We can integrate AI features into existing web applications, mobile apps, portals, CRMs, internal tools, and operational systems where the technical foundations allow it. This might include AI-assisted search, document processing, customer support automation, workflow automation, reporting tools, recommendation systems, or internal copilots.
Before recommending an integration, we look at your current systems, data quality, security requirements, user needs, and the commercial value of the proposed feature. That helps avoid adding AI for novelty when a simpler solution would do the job better.
What data do we need before using AI?
The data you need depends on the use case. Some AI features can work well using existing documents, system records, customer queries, or process data. Others need cleaner, more structured, or better-governed data before they can be useful.
As part of an AI discussion, we can assess whether your data is ready, where the gaps are, and what needs to be improved before AI integration would make sense.
How do you reduce the risk of an AI project failing?
We reduce risk by starting with the business problem, not the technology. Before building anything, we look at the value of the opportunity, the quality of the available data, the feasibility of the solution, the risks involved, and whether users are likely to adopt it.
Where possible, we recommend proving the idea with a small prototype, pilot, or focused AI Opportunity Sprint before committing to a larger build. This helps you test assumptions early and avoid spending heavily on something that looks impressive but does not change the business outcome.
Can AI help automate our internal processes?
Often, yes. AI can be useful where teams spend time reading, sorting, summarising, classifying, searching, rewriting, comparing, or extracting information. It can also support workflows where decisions are slowed down by manual admin or scattered information.
The best opportunities are usually found by mapping your existing process, identifying where time or value is being lost, and then deciding whether AI, traditional automation, system integration, or a process change is the right fix.
What next?
You are likely here because you have an idea, a technical challenge, or a business problem you want to solve. If you are still exploring, you may want to look at our capabilities, browse our case studies, or use our AI disruption risk report to understand where AI could threaten or improve your business.
If you are serious about moving forward, the best next step is a short conversation. We will look at what you are trying to achieve, what is driving the need, and whether it makes sense to explore further. If we are not the right fit, we will say so. If there is a simpler route than custom development, we will say that too.
Use the contact form or call us on 0121 724 0447. We will get back to you within one working day.
