While a one-size-fits-all approach may have cut it in the past, organisations today face layered challenges such as legacy systems, shifting market conditions, regulatory pressures, and growing customer expectations. In this context, customised solutions aren’t just helpful – they’re essential.
Nowhere does this apply more than in the world of software development, says Carla de Abreu, newly appointed Senior Portfolio Manager at Dariel Software. “Businesses today need tailored solutions that address their unique strategies, goals, and pain points. But offering it is not enough – it should be an integral part of your sales approach to gain that competitive advantage.”
De Abreu, who has vast experience in sales, operations, and technology at the likes of e4 and VAT IT, says today’s organisations are businesses that face a multitude of complexities – many of which can be alleviated by working with a consulting technology provider. “This offers so many advantages that empower businesses to focus on growth and innovation. Additionally, working with a consulting provider can lead to significant cost savings. By outsourcing projects, businesses reduce the overhead costs of hiring, training, and retaining full-time employees. This also allows for more flexible resource allocation, optimising operations without adding financial risk.”
These are the reasons she believes partnering with a consulting technology provider helps organisations get the competitive edge they need.
A superior experience
Working with a consulting technology provider like Dariel means tapping into a team of experts who understand your industry’s complexities and are equipped to deliver solutions tailored to your needs. “This approach is critical if a project is to succeed. In the case of software development, developers and clients operate as a team. In complex environments, where business needs evolve faster than traditional project cycles, that shared understanding between client and development team becomes a key lever for long-term success,” says de Abreu. “These valuable insights benefit both parties – the client gets a better solution, the developers can identify potential stumbling blocks early on to reduce the likelihood of costly mistakes and delays, and both parties benefit from greater efficiency.”
A better client experience
Open dialogue and continuous feedback also allow clients to help create the best solution possible while focusing on products and strategies that are more in touch with the broader market’s needs. “This minimises missteps and ensures market relevance. A consultative approach means there is a willingness to pivot or even radically change strategies in response to market demands or technological advancements,” explains de Abreu.
“This approach transcends short-term revenue targets. Instead, the focus is on solid foundational elements – fostering a good customer relationship and market relevance to ensure the client’s longevity and sustained market relevance. By consistently delivering value and staying relevant, consulting providers become an integral part of their clients’ success stories, fostering trust and lasting collaboration.” she adds.
Getting back to core business functions
By outsourcing non-core functions to consulting providers, organisations can redirect internal focus to strategic decision-making, product differentiation, and long-term capability building – areas that demand attention but are often sidelined by day-to-day operational noise. “This allows your internal teams to focus on what they do best, improving productivity and overall efficiency. Letting the experts take care of software development and data management frees up much-needed resources for you to prioritise core business objectives,” says de Abreu.
In fast-moving markets where speed and agility can make all the difference, consulting providers can implement solutions far more efficiently, enabling organisations to reduce time-to-market. By identifying risks early and employing proven project management methodologies, consulting providers can mitigate potential challenges, ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget. “This approach lends itself to a more responsive business model that can spot and seize new opportunities at the right time,” she says. “And when engineering principles are integrated into technological solutions from the get-go, it means those solutions are not only practical but also aligned with your organisational goals.”
People-centred innovation
In the competitive world of software, the synergy between product development, sales and marketing is essential. “When these teams operate in isolation, there is the danger of a disconnect that damages trust between teams, employees, and customers. Regular strategy sessions and clear communication between sales, marketing, and product development is crucial. Not only does this ensure better products and client relationships, but also improved company culture and synergy.”
Though a consultative approach is people-centric its core, it has the added benefit of ensuring financial success as well, says de Abreu. “The most impactful IT solutions I’ve seen weren’t built on flashy tools or shortcuts – they were built on a deep understanding of the problem, smart collaboration, and teams that care about outcomes. That’s what drives success, and it’s how I believe we should all approach building technology.” It’s also a reminder that real innovation comes from getting the fundamentals right – not just the technology stack, but how we engage with the work, the people, and the problems we’re trying to solve.