31.05.2023
Keeping up with tomorrow’s world: integrating with the NHS App
With the UK’s population continuing to grow and life expectancy increasing, already stretched NHS resources are being spread even thinner. The challenges are clear: advances in medicine and technology mean we’re seeing an increasing number of patients encountering complex, long-term conditions that require specialist attention from a team of consultants...
31.03.2023
FHIR UK Core Hackathon: improving patient visibility on virtual wards
Some of our team recently headed down to Digital Health Rewired in London to take part in the FHIR UK Core Hackathon with INTEROPen, answering a brief to hack virtual ward use cases. Our CEO Paul, and Healthcare Growth Director Pad, joined developers Ryan and Owen to take on the challenge...
22.03.2023
Virtual wards: keeping patients safe at home
Imagine a world where patients could receive the same standard of care from the comfort of their home, rather than being in hospital. With advances in digital health this dream is fast becoming a reality for patients and clinicians across the country...
15.02.2023
Introducing 6B’s latest recruit: Pad Burns
Here at 6B, we’re constantly on the lookout for fresh, exciting talent to complement our existing team and enhance the work we do. This week we’re thrilled to announce and excited to welcome Pad Burns to the 6B family, who joins the team as our new Healthcare Growth Director...
08.02.2023
Recommended best practices for provisioning, deploying and operating digital health systems
The Covid-19 pandemic put an insurmountable strain on the entire global healthcare infrastructure. To cope with growing demand and unprecedented patient needs, it was necessary for the healthcare industry to reimagine the way they delivered care...
19.01.2023
Understanding the NHS Supplier Conformance Assessment List (SCAL)
A duty to protect the public, sensitive patient data, technical safety concerns, and being able to guarantee digital products are fit for purpose - these are just some of the reasons why technology in healthcare is so closely monitored and regulated...
14.01.2023
Low code app development – how it works
Low code app development is a unique form of software development that offers access to different types of developers. As opposed to the traditional “high code” model that is used in professional software development companies by qualified and experienced developers, low code app development is a more accessible form that offers a different solution for software creation.
13.01.2023
What is customer service software?
Customer service software helps a business to streamline their communication and troubleshooting with customers into one platform. Certain tools are used and channels are established within the software to allow users to get everything they need from the business in one accessible place. Certain processes may also be automated to ensure consistent communication with users is sustained.
12.01.2023
What is a web app?
Web apps and websites are often confused with one another. In the world of software development, it is important to know the difference between the two, particularly so that the real benefits of web apps can be leveraged. As opposed to the one-way informational website, the web app is a more complicated piece of software that is accessed through a web browser and is connected to a database. Web apps are interactive and easily accessible to wide audiences.
12.01.2023
What are software engineering design patterns?
Software engineering design patterns offer solutions to software engineers for common problems found within projects. They aren’t pieces of code or templates that can be directly transferred into their work, rather they are blueprints for solutions that can be used to resolve issues. The design patterns help speed up the software engineering process by helping developers move past common roadblocks.
11.01.2023
Key considerations when designing an app
The best way to have an app created is to work with a software development company that offers bespoke development services. That way, proper care and consideration of what product should be created and how it should be created can be taken. There are key considerations that need to be taken into account when designing an app. In order to create an app that succeeds on the market and meets the business goals attached, certain aspects must be considered carefully.
11.01.2023
How to plan a software development project
Software development projects can be complex and nuanced matters. There is a lot that goes into any one development project and there are many different stages within the process. A stage that is commonly overlooked or deemed less necessary than it should be is that of planning.
10.01.2023
What is meant by software development consulting?
Software development consulting or software consultancy has been an approach on the rise over the last 5-7 years. The consulting market has grown year after year throughout the world and it continues to do so as the years pass. Mainly due to the great level of benefit the approach has to offer a range of businesses and companies. In this blog, we are going to explore software development consulting in more detail, explaining what it is, why the role exists, and how it can benefit you in your business.
09.01.2023
How to create software
Software is crucial in our modern world. As such, many people will want to know exactly how they can create software. Software that matches their needs, requirements, and vision. We all know by this point that having and using the right software is transformative in how you conduct business and meet your goals. In our digital age, having the right technological tools is an essential step in any business process.
09.01.2023
Web developer vs software developer – what’s the difference?
The roles of web developer and software developer are common and important ones in the overall field of tech and digital development. They are similar roles in many ways, but they do have fundamental differences that separate them too. In this blog, we are going to talk more about these two roles, specifically in relation to what makes them different.
08.01.2023
What is embedded software development?
Embedded software development is a particular subset of software development that involves software developed for and implemented in devices and hardware different from typical computers. Examples can include simple systems such as traditional calculators and more complex systems, such as smart cars.
08.01.2023
Common software development tools used
Throughout the process of software development, there are many tools used. Thanks to modern technology and the advancement of software itself, there are more tools than ever at the disposal of developers across the planet. Each development team will have tools they prefer and use more often than others. There will also be a variation of tools available for each tool type, all of which upgrade and change frequently. Overall, this means that the world of software development tools is pretty vast.
07.01.2023
What are deliverables in software development?
Deliverables are different to goals or objectives. Where goals and objectives outline what we want to be achieved, deliverables help structure how these goals are going to be achieved. They can be seen as metrics for progress. In this blog, we are going to discuss deliverables in software development a little more, including examples and an explanation of why they are so beneficial to the field.
07.01.2023
What is the best data migration strategy?
The right data migration strategy must also be chosen for the right project, to make sure the best possible chance of success ensues. There are two main data migration strategies, the big bang approach and the trickle approach. In this blog, we are going to discuss each of these approaches in more detail and examine which one is the “best” for particular projects and teams.
06.01.2023
What is the data migration process?
Data migration, in its simplest form, is moving data from one place to another. There are different types of data migration and the process generally takes place when a system is being updated or upgraded. While data migration appears to be quite a straightforward process on the surface, it is a process that comes with a lot of challenges and potential pitfalls. It must be handled carefully and with adequate consideration in order to be successful and avoid these pitfalls.
06.01.2023
What is the Agile software development life cycle?
Agile is an approach within software development that focuses on creating high levels of collaboration with tech clients and optimisation of all processes for efficiency. It is a modern approach to development that has risen steadily in popularity across the world. Many clients may specifically seek out an Agile team for their projects due to its reputation for success. Within the Agile software approach, there is the Agile software development life cycle. This is the model which gives structure to the approach and informs how Agile projects are carried out.
05.01.2023
What is the role of software?
The term software is bigger than we might think it is at first. When we are talking about software, we are talking about a global giant that holds power in many arenas. More than just a collection of computer programmes, software is something that can transform, improve and grow anything it touches.
05.01.2023
What are Agile principles?
Agile is a popular software development methodology. It is a modern approach that prioritises flexibility, adaptability to change, and customer satisfaction. Developed in response to the high levels of failure throughout software development projects, the Agile approach has risen in power and popularity ever since its debut in 2001 with the Agile Manifesto. There are key 12 principles in the Agile Manifesto. These tenets of the methodology offer guidance on how an Agile project should be conducted to follow best-practice, and we are going to explore them right here.
04.01.2023
SQL vs MySQL – what’s the difference?
Data is a critical element in the world of software and software development. In the modern world, nearly everything runs on data. Therefore, it is important that we have the tools and resources we need to navigate, analyse, and explore that data whenever we need to. Two major components of data analysis are SQL and MySQL. Despite having nearly identical names, they are two different things that serve two distinct purposes. Knowing the difference between the two is key to understanding how to work with data effectively.
04.01.2023
Monolithic vs microservices
Two important architecture types in software development are monolithic and microservice architecture. They are two separate approaches with two significantly different end results. To understand exactly what kind of architecture you want for a software development project and what that will look like, it is key to have a good understanding of these two concepts.
03.01.2023
The CTO roles and responsibilities explained
CTO is the highest tech position within a company and they are responsible for making important decisions regarding a company’s actions and strategies. To get into such a role, a person will have typically been working in the tech industry for at least 10-15 years, to acquire the experience and expertise needed for such a role. In this blog, we are going to explore the CTO in more detail, looking and what the role is and what typical responsibilities are included therein.
28.12.2022
Agile advantages and disadvantages
Agile is a term that has become synonymous with software development. It is a mindset that has revolutionised how software development teams across the globe work. We are even seeing the term adopted by other sectors and markets to increase productivity, efficiency and success. However, an Agile approach isn’t suitable for every project or every team; it’s by no means a one-size-fits-all approach that will work perfectly for everyone.
27.12.2022
What are environments in software development?
“Environments” in software development are the different phases a piece of work moves through before it goes live to its target audience. They are used to test that all work functions as it should before it is deployed and to make sure that any changes made to a piece of software don’t break the live version.
23.12.2022
Agile in software development
Agile is a very popular modern approach to software development. Agile was developed in direct response to the high failure rate of software development projects. A group of developers wanted to create an approach that would allow others to succeed in their projects and be happier while doing so.
01.12.2022
What is a feature in software development?
“Feature” is a term frequently used in the realm of software development. In fact, feature-driven development is a subcategory of development methodology, commonly used in reference to MVP and prototype creation. So, what does it mean? What are features, exactly?
30.11.2022
How to become a software engineer
Software engineer is a slightly different title to software developer, if you need a further explanation of this difference you can read about it in our relevant guide. When we are referring to a software engineer in this blog, we are talking about a specialised role of software engineering that demands a certain high-value skillset and works within larger teams in general.
30.11.2022
What is bespoke software?
There are many types of bespoke software commonly created across the world. Many companies now opt for bespoke software services as they give them a competitive edge over others in the industry. Having software that is specialised and tailored to fit exact business needs is a real advantage over off-the-shelf options. In fact, there are many advantages of bespoke software.
29.11.2022
Types of software development companies
Not every option for development will be the same and it is important to know the difference so that you know you are choosing the right option for you. This can cut down on a lot of unnecessary time doing your own research and help you zoom straight to picking the software company you need and getting the product you want. So, to help you in that process, let’s look at the types of software development companies in more detail.
19.11.2022
What is an offshore software development company?
Offshore software development is a practice increasing in popularity across the world. Due to how competitive and fast-paced the software market currently is, businesses worldwide are always thinking of ways to get ahead. When it comes to software development, a way to get ahead is to call in resources from outside your own country and move the development process further afield.
18.11.2022
Who owns software developed for your company?
As a company working with software developers, it's natural to worry about ownership issues, copyright issues, and other legal matters surrounding the software. The question of who owns the software built for your company is a tricky one. However, it is also something you can straighten out much more easily by knowing the right information and knowing a little more about your rights.
18.11.2022
How much does it cost to develop software?
Many individual people, startups, and established companies all want to know how much it costs to develop software before they begin any kind of process for themselves. That makes a lot of sense. It might seem like there should be a very simple answering rubric to this question, with different price tags for different software packages. Unfortunately, it isn’t as easy as that.
17.11.2022
How long does it take to build custom software?
The answer to the question of how long does it take to build custom software is a tricky one. There isn’t one definitive answer for every situation and that can be frustrating for some people. Of course, if you are about to embark on a journey of custom software development with a software development company, you will want to get an idea of how long this process is going to take.
17.11.2022
What is an MVP in software development?
MVP is an important term in software development. It stands for “minimum viable product” and it refers to a piece of software that is released by a software development company prior to a final product’s launch. It is something that works and can be used by customers or a testing group, however, it will have limited functions and capabilities as compared to the projected final product.
16.11.2022
A guide to finding the best company for software development
If your company or business is considering outsourcing your tech needs to a software development company, chances are you are worried about making the wrong decision. Opting for bespoke software carefully created by a software company can be a big leap for many people, especially if you don’t know exactly what you are looking for. In this blog, we want to help you find the best company for software development.
16.11.2022
What is software maintenance?
It is easy to think that software development ends once a product is completed and launched, but this isn’t the case. The software development lifecycle also critically includes the process of software maintenance, by which a system is maintained, analysed, updated, optimised, and kept up to scratch by a software development company. Often in a separate team known as managed services, software development companies (or the good ones, at least) make sure that a product they have built and launched stays true to client needs as time goes along.
15.11.2022
Is custom software development worth it for small businesses?
Software development investments will be on the minds of many small businesses. In launching and growing any business, software will be an essential element. It can often be the factor that determines whether a business succeeds or fails. Before they invest a penny, most small businesses will be wondering whether custom software development will be worth it for them, or whether they should simply opt for a pre-packaged software option that is ready to go. So, let’s explore that question further and give you our thoughts on the matter.
15.11.2022
What is enterprise web application development?
In this current market of high competition and fast-changing trends, it is important to get ahead. The only way to do that is through high-quality, bespoke applications that increase efficiency, connection, and opportunity. Enterprises, no matter how big, can easily fall behind their competitors if their range of digital outreach is not up to scratch. As such, many enterprises will carry out an internal process of web application development, or they will outsource a software development company to do it for them.
14.11.2022
Advantages of off-the-shelf software
There are disadvantages to being aware of this form of software and we have another blog concerning this matter in our Insights section. Aspects such as lack of scalability, tricky integration, and update costs should all play a part in your decision-making process. However, in this blog, we want to discuss the advantages and positive potential that off-the-shelf software might have for some people so that you may have both complete sides of the argument.
14.11.2022
5 advantages of bespoke software development in the UK
Many companies and businesses choose to invest in bespoke software development due to the main advantages and positives it can bring to them. Of course, at 6B, we are big believers in the power of bespoke software. We know the transformative and revolutionary effects the process can have on any business or company. So, we thought we would create this blog to talk more about them.
11.11.2022
Should you hire a freelance software developer or a software development company?
When implementing new software in your business, you will be presented with many options. The software development market is vast and there is a wide range of options to go with. In this blog, we are going to talk more about how you can decide specifically between hiring a freelance software developer or a software development company.
10.11.2022
What is black box testing?
Black box testing is in direct comparison with white box testing, which doesn’t deal with input-output functionality but deals with code, design, security, and deeper layers of software. If you are interested in learning more about white box testing, you can check out our own blog on the topic.
08.11.2022
What is microservice architecture?
Microservice architecture is an approach within software development that focuses on building loosely coupled, independently deployable components which ultimately come together to make one complete service. Rather than having one monolithic product, microservice architecture allows developers to build independent parts of a complete product that won’t affect or counteract each other.
01.11.2022
NHS Digital Technology Assessment Criteria (DTAC) and what it means for technology suppliers
In an industry as tightly regulated as healthcare, the introduction of new technology brings about its own set of unique challenges. Where other industries have been quick to realise the benefits of technology, healthcare has traditionally lagged behind...
27.10.2022
Disadvantages of off-the-shelf software
There are quite a few disadvantages of off-the-shelf software that are important to discuss. Not so that we may dismiss the option entirely, there are, of course, advantages that remain and the option may be what works for certain businesses at certain times. To get a full picture and understand the full context behind off-the-shelf software before you make your own purchase, however, understanding both sides of the equation is important.
26.10.2022
5 common software development services in 2022
Having so many options out there is great for a range of people. However, it does also contribute to a feeling of overwhelm and confusion for many. With the software development market becoming so large and complex, many people are left wondering what it is exactly that software development companies do. In this blog, we are going to talk to you about five of the most common software development services in 2022 and what they are.
25.10.2022
Top 4 software development methodologies
There are many software development methodologies out there, each with their own positives and challenges for each team behind them. There certainly isn’t only one way to look at a software development challenge and there isn’t only one way in which people are developing.
14.10.2022
What is a RASCI matrix?
A RASCI matrix is a valuable tool used in software development project management. It is a framework that helps to define the roles and responsibilities of a project before it begins. The intention of using such a matrix is to make the project more efficient and productive and to keep a team working seamlessly together.
13.10.2022
What is Waterfall testing?
The Waterfall model is an approach to software development. It is a systematic and methodical approach that sees development teams flow through linear stages, without returning to or repeating any previous stage. Just as the water flows through a waterfall in a continually-moving, never-looking-back fashion, development works in the same way through a Waterfall approach to development.
12.10.2022
Functional vs non-functional requirements in software development
When it comes to software development requirements, there are two important categories, functional and non-functional requirements. To fully understand what we mean by defining requirements, we need to know exactly what one looks like and what form it can take. It is, therefore, crucial to understand these two categories and the differences between them.
11.10.2022
What is nearshore software development?
Nearshore software development is the process of outsourcing a software development company one to three hours away from your current location. As opposed to offshore software development, this requires choosing a company within your own timezone (or very similar) to carry out the software development you require.
28.09.2022
Software development acceptance criteria examples
In software development, our ultimate aim is always to satisfy a client. When a client approaches a software development company with a project, they have a set of ideas in their head about what they want for that project. If we can match these ideas to the best of our ability, we will have one happy client.
25.09.2022
Agile advantages and disadvantages
Agile is a term that has become synonymous with software development. It is a mindset that has revolutionised how software development teams across the globe work. We are even seeing the term adopted by other sectors and markets to increase productivity, efficiency and success.
25.09.2022
What is a proof of concept in software development?
Proof of concept is an important aspect of the field of software development. It is something that every developer and development team will use at some point in their lives. If it is something you aren’t using yet then you may be missing out on a big opportunity.
21.09.2022
Types of software: an easy run-through
Software is used every day by billions of people across the world. So much of our society now functions via software in its many different forms. But do we all know exactly what these different forms are? Despite our dependency on software, many of us don’t know what it means and what the different types of software actually are.
21.09.2022
ERP vs CRM: what’s the difference?
ERP and CRM software are two cherries on the same stem. They are different and they serve individual purposes, but they are connected. As such, some people struggle to understand the difference between the two. They also, therefore, struggle to decide which option is what they need for their own project and team.
17.09.2022
What is DevOps?
The software development methodology known as DevOps can be a tricky topic for beginners to get their heads around. It’s a highly effective and innovative software development method that has a lot to offer to a range of people, whether that be developers or clients of a software development product.
16.09.2022
What does SQL stand for?
Structured query language code, or SQL (often pronounced as "sequel"), is used by developers worldwide. It is the code for nearly all relational database management systems and has been since the late 1970s. SQL is a standard coding language used to interact with and query data within relational databases
14.09.2022
What is Agile Scrum methodology?
Agile and Scrum are terms that you will hear pretty frequently in the world of software development. Agile is a methodology that has taken the software industry by storm and we are even seeing it being adopted in other sectors as time goes by. However, many people still don’t know exactly what these terms mean and how they can be used to their maximum potential.
12.09.2022
What is custom software development?
Custom software development is the creation of bespoke, personalised software for a business or company. Instead of buying an existing software package, some businesses opt for software specifically designed and created for them by developers. In recent years, this has become increasingly popular. More and more businesses out there are recognising the importance of software both in their everyday workings and their long-term success. It is becoming increasingly known that packaged software doesn’t always cut it.
11.09.2022
MVP development for startups – how to do it and why
If you are a startup founder and you haven't considered MVP development yet, you are missing out on huge potential. MVP development offers a unique and profitable opportunity for tech startups. It can help you get your feet off the ground for the first time, without wasting all of your effort and money in the meantime.
10.09.2022
product owner vs product manager – what’s the difference?
The discussion of product owner vs product manager is an interesting and complex one. The two roles have a lot of similarities and that can certainly lead to confusion around separating and defining the two. Despite their similarities, product manager and product owner are different and have separate roles. The two job roles have different responsibilities, goals, and scopes despite their areas of overlap.
09.09.2022
What is the system development life cycle and why is it important?
The system development life cycle/systems development life cycle is an important process within the world of engineering and software development. Different sources provide a different idea of how many stages there are within SDLC and we will discuss that a little further down the line. However, the structure is what is both useful to know and efficient to use. This is got-to-know information for anyone in the field of development.
18.08.2022
Integrating Epic into your digital health application
Technology will never replace the importance of human touch when receiving medical attention, but it can help enhance it. If systems aren’t connected and able to seamlessly exchange information with each other in a healthcare setting, it could have an adverse effect on clinical outcomes and patient safety...
11.08.2022
Digital transformation in healthcare
Digital transformation has been a buzzword that’s bandied about in boardrooms for some time now. It’s a process that, for many, has held the key to improving efficiency and meeting changing customer and market expectations. But today, digital transformation represents more than just a buzzword or an ideal; it’s no longer considered a ‘nice-to-have’...
04.08.2022
Focusing a product team on outcomes
If you want your team to have a greater impact on your business, its overall mission, and the customers you serve, you need to value the ‘why’ over the ‘what’; you need to focus on the outcomes of your work, the reason behind what you do, and not the outputs, the actions you take to get there...
28.07.2022
Why you should choose React Native for mobile app development
The mobile app market is constantly changing, and it grows larger by the day. As more users demonstrate a preference for using apps over desktop, their expectations rise and so do the demands placed on the shoulders of developers...
21.07.2022
How is digital transformation driven by customer experience?
Increased efficiency, lower operational costs, and better customer insights - these are just a few of the advantages organisations will benefit from when embracing technology. Digital transformation is all about embedding technology to drive fundamental change...
07.07.2022
What is NHS IM1 – Interface Mechanism?
Interoperability has been something high on the agenda of the NHS for a while now. With digital technology playing a more prominent role in patient treatment and new models of care emerging, there’s an obvious need for the better sharing of information across different systems...
30.06.2022
Common project challenges with working agile and how to overcome them
Since we’ve adopted an agile way of working, we’ve noticed a tangible difference in the quality of work we produce and the speed at which we’re able to produce it. Agile project management is inherently flexible; it encourages experimentation, embraces change of direction, and champions the ability to adapt to an ever changing scenario...
23.06.2022
Mobile app development for SMEs
If you’re an SME, you might be forgiven for thinking mobile app development is something solely for the big boys – the Facebooks and Spotifys of the world. Your content and the slick website you paid an agency to design a couple of years ago give your customers everything they need, right? You let them know more about your business’ origins, what products or services you sell, and list the multiple ways they can get in contact with you.
01.06.2022
How to drive agile adoption… with your team (part two)
Since the creation of the Agile Manifesto more than two decades ago, businesses across the globe have bought into the ethos of working agile. For software development teams like ours, these methodologies allow us to be more productive when working on projects and reduce the time between product launches.
26.05.2022
Google Analytics 4: everything you need to know
Since its launch back in 2005, Google Analytics has cemented itself as the gold standard for tracking website and marketing performance. Tweaks, improvements and iterations to the service have been the proverbial hoops for marketers to jump through over the years – but in April, Google announced that it would be making a removal.
19.05.2022
Do you have designs on a better looking website? Think WordPress
A whopping 43% of all websites use WordPress – including this one. The platform has long been regarded as a firm favourite among the developer community; it’s versatile, highly customisable, easy-to-use, and boasts countless plugins to meet a variety of needs.
12.05.2022
How to drive agile adoption… with your client base (part one)
We see the benefits of working agile every day. This way of working has transformed our operations, and established a path for sustainable growth. We’ve become more responsive to change and less susceptible to the volatility of sudden shifts in the market – like the pandemic.
05.05.2022
Using technology to streamline and scale your business
Business is a lot like life. It’s about moving forward. If you aren’t moving forward you’re doing one of two things: you’re either at a standstill or you’re regressing. If you’re at a standstill it means you’ve become stagnant, and regression means you’re in danger of being left behind.
21.04.2022
Why data analysis is key to enhancing digital customer journeys
As a business owner, you can’t predict the future or read the mind of your customers; there’s no crystal ball that will forewarn you of what future consumer demands look like. The good news is, data analytics is the next best thing to a crystal ball.
31.03.2022
Out with the old, in with the new: a deep dive into our Drivespeed project
Drivespeed Group is an automotive service provider, who offer bespoke vehicle supply solutions and services. Over the last ten years, the Group has grown significantly, but the systems they’re using haven't grown with them.
