To end users, the difference between poorly designed software and well-designed software that contains bugs is minimal.
This is why developers should be judicious in their choice of a bug tracking system.
If you need a tracking system for an upcoming project, but you have questions about how to choose the right one, the answers below can help: Would an open source system work as well as a proprietary system? Depending on the needs of your project, an open source system could work as well as a proprietary system.
However, the latter should be chosen based on a full understanding of the limitations inherent in an open source product.
Typically, these limitations are:

• No customer service plan
• Less configurability and flexibility than a proprietary system
• Lack of value-added options such as custom reports and history trails
• Open source code that could attract hackers

Due to these limitations, most developers opt for a proprietary system.
What basic system options should you look for? Even when the right tracking options are in place, issue and bug tracking software need the following options to ensure projects run as smoothly as possible:

• Automatic email notifications when tasks are assigned
• Ability to send file attachments
• Ability to save the history of actions taken to resolve bugs
• Ability to generate custom reports

Without these options, bug and issue tracking software can make the tracking process less efficient.
How many users should the system accommodate? Unless you are certain that (a) your development team will not grow, and (b) clients will not request access to the system during the course of a project, it is best to choose a system whose level slightly exceeds the number of users you currently have.
For example, choosing a maximum user level of one hundred if you currently have fifty-eight users is smart idea, especially if you opt to sign a lengthy service contract.
Is a web-based system preferable to an in-house system? A web-based tracking system has at least two advantages over an in-house system: it costs nothing to install and maintain, and it never needs to be replaced.
The customer adds new tracking options as needed, and the provider takes care of system upgrades.
Most developers choose web based tracking systems for the financial and technical flexibility they offer.
What type of payment plan should you look for? If you choose a web-based tracking system, you will have three basic contract options:

• Signing a medium-length contract of roughly six months
• Signing a contract of one year, or longer
• Paying on a monthly basis

Signing a contract typically equates to a lower monthly price than paying on a month-to-month basis.
However, the latter option offers more flexibility.
If you need bug tracking software on an extended basis, signing a contract is probably the best option.
Conclusion The answers above address common questions asked by beginning developers about bug and issue tracking software.
Before you choose a tracking system, consult an experienced tracking provider about the right options for your unique needs.