Over 70% of software projects face issues after launch, ranging from bugs to performance drops. In many cases, these problems aren’t due to bad code. They come from not asking the right questions once the software is live. Once your software goes live, the job isn’t finished. You’ll still need support, updates, and clear communication from your development team. Knowing what to ask after launch helps you keep everything running smoothly and avoid problems later.
Here are some important things to discuss with your Software Development Company Houston after the project goes live.
Is Post-Launch Support Included?
Your software might run into issues after launch. These can include bugs, errors, or unexpected user behavior. Support after launch helps fix problems quickly and keeps your users happy.
Ask these questions:
- Will you fix bugs that show up after launch?
- How long is support available at no extra cost?
- Do you offer help during weekends or holidays?
- What’s the usual response time if something breaks?
Why it matters
Not all companies offer the same level of support. Some give you 30 days, others 90, while a few charge right away. Knowing what’s covered helps you plan better and avoid surprise costs.
What Are the Maintenance Costs?
Even if your software works well today, it will need updates to stay smooth and secure in the future. That’s where maintenance comes in. But it’s not always included in the original project.
Things you should know
- Do you charge monthly or yearly for maintenance?
- What does your maintenance cover? (e.g., updates, small fixes, performance checks)
- Can I choose what to include or exclude in the plan?
Why it matters
Software isn’t something you launch once and forget. Regular care helps it stay updated, compatible, and safe. Make sure you understand how much you’ll be paying and what you’re getting in return.
How Are Future Updates Handled?
As your business grows, you may want to add new features or improve parts of your software. Knowing how to request changes and how long they take can save a lot of time later.
Here’s what to ask
- How do I request a new feature or change?
- Do you charge hourly or offer fixed packages for future work?
- Will the same team work on future updates?
- How quickly can you handle change requests?
Why it matters
A clear update process means you won’t be stuck waiting weeks for a small fix. It also gives you more control over how your software improves over time.
Do You Offer Performance Monitoring?
A software product might look perfect on the surface but still have speed or performance problems behind the scenes. Slow load times or downtime can drive users away.
Ask these performance-related questions
- Do you track uptime, speed, or load time?
- Will I receive monthly or weekly reports?
- Do you monitor the server or just the app itself?
- Can you suggest changes to improve speed?
Why it matters
Real-time performance tracking helps catch issues early. If your app slows down or crashes, monitoring tools can tell you why—and your developers can fix it fast.
Can You Help With User Feedback Integration?
After launch, users will start giving feedback. Some will point out bugs. Others will suggest ways to make things better. Good development companies don’t just build software—they listen to users too.
Ask about user feedback like this
- Will you help review feedback from users?
- Can you suggest improvements based on what people say?
- How do you track and organize feedback for future updates?
Why it matters
Listening to users helps make your product stronger. Your developers should be able to guide you on how to turn feedback into useful updates.
How Do You Handle Security Updates?
Online threats keep changing, and even a small gap in security can lead to serious damage. After your software goes live, it needs regular checks and updates to stay protected.
Important points to ask
- Do you check for security risks after launch?
- How often will you apply patches or updates?
- Will I get a report when updates are made?
- What happens if a new threat is found?
Why this matters
Even strong software needs regular care to protect your users’ data. A trusted Software Development Company Houston will know how to keep your system secure long after launch.
What Happens If We Want to Scale?
As your business grows, your software needs may grow too. That might mean more users, more features, or better speed. Scaling your app should be part of your long-term plan.
Questions to discuss
- Can the current software handle more users or traffic?
- How do we plan for future updates or expansions?
- Is the system flexible enough for new tools or features?
Why it’s important
You don’t want to start from scratch if your business grows. A good software development company Houston will design software that grows with you and supports your long-term goals.
Who Will Be Our Point of Contact Going Forward?
After the project ends, knowing who to talk to becomes more important than ever. You may not need help every day, but when something goes wrong, you need to know who’s responsible.
Clarify these things
- Who should I contact if something breaks?
- Is there a support team or a dedicated person?
- How can I reach them—email, phone, chat?
Why this matters
You don’t want to explain your whole project every time you ask a question. Having one person or team who knows your software makes everything easier and faster.
FAQs
Do I still need my development team after launch?
Yes. Even after launch, you’ll need them for updates, bug fixes, security patches, and performance checks. Software is always changing, and it needs regular care.
What is a maintenance plan, and do I need one?
A maintenance plan covers tasks like fixing bugs, updating software, and keeping it safe. It helps avoid downtime and keeps things running well.
What if I want new features six months after launch?
You can add features later. Ask your Software Development Company Houston if they offer update packages or hourly work for new requests.
How can I make sure my software stays fast and secure?
Regular updates, performance checks, and strong security practices keep software stable and safe. Ask for monthly reports and be involved in reviews.