Answers
How do you cost a bespoke software build?
In short
Cost a bespoke software build on team mix, duration, integration count and regulatory burden — not on feature lists. Most accurate quotes come after a paid 1-2 week discovery.
Short answer
Cost a bespoke software build on team mix, duration, integration count and regulatory burden — not on feature lists. Most accurate quotes come after a paid 1-2 week discovery.
What this actually means in practice
Typical UK day rates for senior engineers run £900-£1,500, with team sizes of 2-6 for most builds. A useful V1 typically runs £80k-£400k; a real platform with operational depth £400k-£2m+ over 12-18 months.
The most common pitfall
Comparing fixed-price feature quotes without an honest discovery phase.
What to do next
Pay for discovery; reject any fixed price that hasn't been preceded by real exploration.
Frequently asked questions
Does Forth Systems help with this?
Yes — Forth Systems works with banks, payment institutions, insurers and infrastructure operators on exactly this kind of work. Engagements start with a fixed-scope assessment so you see the shape before committing.
How experienced is the team?
Engagements are staffed by named, UK-based senior engineers — not a rotating offshore pool. References from the second line of comparable clients are available on request.
Where are you based?
Edinburgh-based, delivering UK-wide with onsite presence in London and across Scotland as required.
How fast can we start?
Most engagements start within 2-4 weeks of a signed SoW, faster where an existing supplier framework is in place.