SoftwareProduct

A software product is a packaged set of software assets designed to satisfy a specific user need or market segment. It can be a standalone application, a mobile app, a web service, or embedded software delivered to customers under a license or service agreement.

In addition to code, a software product includes documentation, installation materials, APIs, and often associated support services. Its development follows a product lifecycle that encompasses ideation, validation, requirements, design, implementation, testing, release, and ongoing maintenance driven by user feedback and market conditions.

Product management defines strategy, prioritizes features, and defines success metrics, while engineering builds to quality attributes such as functionality, reliability, usability, performance, security, and maintainability. Teams collaborate across architecture, user experience, quality assurance, and operations to deliver value.

Delivery models vary: traditional licensed software, software as a service (SaaS), freemium or open source with commercial support. Distribution channels include direct sales, app stores, or partner networks, with licensing terms ranging from proprietary to permissive or copyleft open source.

Evaluation focuses on adoption, retention, revenue, user satisfaction, and product health metrics like churn, engagement, and feedback. Legal and compliance considerations may cover licensing, privacy, accessibility, and regulatory requirements, while ongoing maintenance and updates ensure compatibility with evolving platforms.