Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How much will it all cost?
A: It is very difficult to estimate without talking to you about your requirements. Once your requirements are known, we document those in the form of a system proposal and usually provide a fixed price quotation. Initial consultations are free of charge, and you will receive good advice and a different view on your problem, so why not give it a try?

Q: We are not based in the North West, can JSD help us?
A: Your location does not matter, we are quite willing to travel anywhere for face to face meetings and can always use the internet when required to communicate with you or issue downloads. We have customers all over the country, and have produced national systems for corporations also.

Q: How long will it take?
A: Again this depends on your requirements. Please contact us for a free consultation.

Q: What types of system can you develop?
A: We can apply our hand to virtually any application. We listen to your requirements and apply our software development skills to give you a top class system. Your size does not matter either, as we can work equally well for the largest corporation or the smallest business. While we were originally set up to serve the small to medium sized business, all companies can benefit from quality software and good value.

Q: Can you redevelop an existing system?
A: Of course. You can work with your old system while development is taking place, then when the new system is complete and ready to go, in most cases we can transfer the data from your old system to the new, working over a weekend if required to minimize impact on your business.

Q: Can you look after Windows as well?
A: Yes!

Q: Can you look after my old system, produced many years ago using XXXX?
A: We are limited in the number of technologies we can maintain an in house expertise in, however if you do have a less common requirement, why not give us a try? If we can't handle your request, we normally know of somebody who can.

Q: I hear about software project failures in the press, will my project fail also?
A: You need a clear focus on what you require and what it is possible to get out of a computer. Equally we focus on the design from our angle also, and employ a small team of experienced specialists to meet your requirements. Focus and experience are the keys.

Q: We run Windows 98, is this a problem?
A: We recommend using one of the NT line of Windows operating systems, i.e. Windows NT, 2000, XP or 2003. Windows 98 is slower and less reliable, but doesn't need as much memory. However, it isn't usually a problem if you run Windows 98.

Q: I have two offices and want to share data between the two, is this possible?
A: Yes, you can do this using readily available technologies, typically using a secure Internet VPN (Virtual Private Network) connection and suitable database technology. Please refer to the section on Wide Area Networks on the small business page, and also the Databases page for further information..