There are a large number of custom software design companies in the Chicago area. All the way from very large firms who service government and Fortune 500 accounts
to "2 guys in a garage (which by the way, Google was only 10 years ago)".
A key consideration when engaging a development firm is the total lifecycle cost of the software, not just the initial development cost. Most studies have shown that the initial development is around 20% of the lifecycle cost or less. At a minimum, you have to add training, support, operations, maintenance, and enhancements. When considering your choice of firm, you need to determine if they will play a role in the product after its initial deployment. Will they provide enhancements? Support? Maintenance? Will they still be around as long as you expect to operate the software?
Another important issue is who actually owns the rights to the code. Unless specifically agreed, generally the development firm will own the code and you will only have an unrestricted right to use it. The firm could sell the program to others if it so chose.
