With thousands of software development companies and software houses out there, it can be challenging to find the perfect match. It’s not impossible, though. All you have to do is follow this list of five crucial elements you should bear in mind when looking for a software development company. With all these boxes ticked, you’re on a straight course to a successful, long-term relationship.
As always, when you’re looking for a business partner, you have to do some research before you sign the dotted line. Software development is an important area of every modern company, and picking the wrong company can waste time and money. So, without further ado, let’s examine what you ought to remember about:
The best software development company: 5 elements
OUTSOURCING OR TEAM AUGMENTATION?
For starters, you have to think about the appropriate business model. In software development, there are two major models. The first one – outsourcing – works the same as everywhere else. There is an external software development company that provides services for you. This option is good when it’s your first software project, or you don’t have an internal IT team.
But what about team augmentation? Sometimes large corporations already have an in-house software development team. When new projects emerge, though, this team might not be sufficient. This is where team augmentation ups your game. That’s a blend of outsourcing and employment where you “hire” new specialists who temporarily support your team working on this new project. Both these models have some pros and cons. It all depends on your needs and capabilities.
AREA OF EXPERTISE
Although software development can be perceived as a relatively narrow field of expertise, it’s not. After all, we have web development, mobile development, video game development, and several other sub-branches. Before you make a decision, make sure you’re talking with a company that can really help you with your project. If you want to build a new mobile app, look for mobile development companies. This way, you can make sure the company of your choice has got whatever it takes to finish your app without unnecessary delays or complications.
THE SCOPE OF SERVICES
This point is related to the previous one, but here, we mean something a bit different. Our advice for you is to look for a company that can help you with software development and further maintenance and upgrades. Make sure you won’t be left on your own once the project is finished. After all, many apps and IT projects require regular maintenance and upgrades, not to mention dealing with potential glitches.
COMMUNICATION
Let’s be honest here; there has to be chemistry between two parties. If you find talking to your potential partners difficult or irritating, look for someone else. It’s the same situation with questions and doubts. If the company you’re negotiating with can’t provide straightforward, transparent answers to your questions, it’s not a good sign. Professional software houses understand that clients don’t have to know how the IT world works. Usually, it takes just 1-2 meetings to make a final decision about the quality of communication between your company and the software house.
AN AGREEMENT
Find a company that will have no problem signing an agreement with you. When it comes to software development, the agreement is essential. It should contain all the relevant conditions and parameters of the expected outcome. Make sure the contract you sign indicates both parties’ responsibilities and describes the result along with its functionalities and features.
If you’re looking for a software development company, see EL Passion.
