The patent should be written so that the coverage of the patent makes this difficult. It should also claim and emphasize the important functions of the software that have value in the marketplace. The claims should be written so as to claim only the scope of your invention, not more and not less. The results of the thorough prior art search, along with the knowledge of the inventor and the market, can aid this process. If you want to expedite getting your software application to issue, make sure that the claims are for only one invention.
Many inventors try to put too much in a single patent application.
If there is more than one invention, substantial delays can result. Other ways to expedite the patent process include informing the PTO of the results of the prior art search so as to educate the examiner in your software technology area. If your software product is about to be manufactured and your company is awaiting funding, or if your product is being copied, a petition can be field to request special expedited status. As you continue the design process and find other ways to implement your invention, file more patents to develop a strategic patent portfolio. Do this even if you don't intend to use the new design or implementation to keep your competitors out.