If you’ve recently made the decision to invest in bespoke software (see our last blog featuring a checklist to help you decide) then the next stage is to find the best software for your project.
You may have the best software concept in the world, but poor execution could sound the death knell for your project and mean it never get’s off the floor due to time/money/specification issues.
Qss Technosoft has worked on bespoke software for a wide variety of clients, and we feel we’re well-placed to offer some advice about how to choose which developer to go for:
Most developers have a website, and many of these feature examples of their work. They probably won’t reveal a huge amount about each project they’ve worked on, as obviously they will want to respect their clients’ privacy and confidentiality, but these glimpses may be an indicator of the sort of projects and size that they can handle. Alternatively, or in addition to this, try asking the software development company themselves. Most are happy to explain their past work, or even give some quick examples—after all, it is their business. Focus on the challenges the developer faced with the projects and the solutions they put into place. Bespoke Software development often includes similar skills and techniques even if the resulting software appears to be somewhat different to your desired outcome. The development agency should be able to explain which parts of their examples are related to the challenges you face.
1. Know your mobile app requirements
The first step in making a decision is to understand your own precise requirements. You should be able to clearly define the exact things you are looking for in a mobile application. Now, this would depend to a large extent on the industry in which you work and the type of products or services you are trying to sell. Even if you are looking for a non-profit mobile application, you must have clearly defined functionality.
However, you can also check out the similar apps on the internet and mobile platforms and further can review what they provide. Obviously, you have to be different but the core remains the same. As there are so many apps available in the app market, you would be doing the same thing but in a different way in most of the cases.
2. Review The Portfolio
This will get you a basic idea about the person or the potential partner and their expertise in the particular industry. Ask them where to find the samples of their work and see how their finished products look. You can further ask them to explain more about these products and hence understand their true contribution to those particular projects.
3. Cost Effectiveness
Before choosing the company for mobile app development know the cost which will take for application development and you have not compromise with quality of the mobile application.
4. Look for a good portfolio
As the list of targeted companies is ready, it’s time that you look for a good portfolio. It is significant in identifying technical expertise, business domain, products engineered by them and much more. Collect information about the company’s previous projects, whether they have earlier worked on the project similar to yours as that can certainly boost up your confidence while processing for the work allotment.
5. Discussion on Coding
The quality of code has a direct influence on the quality of software being built. Businesses should discuss with the software developers regarding the level of coding which is to be maintained.
Furthermore, businesses should post guidelines for software developers like more lean coding, bug-free codes etc.
6. Research on the company’s reputation
It is best to look for a company that is recognized for its good reputation. A company that is popularly known surely has satisfied customers and competent services. Its popularity assures that it is stable and credible.
7. Know the level of expertise
It is important to learn about the level of expertise of the software development company that you have selected. The people they have employed should be experienced, highly-qualified, and skilled. However, as a business, you should know that having a skill set is necessary, but not sufficient, to help you achieve optimal results. Therefore, the company that you choose for software development must have experts on board who are capable of working under pressure and overcoming challenges.
8. Association
It’s another slightly left-field consideration. Whilst you’re the client (and therefore the boss), software development is as much a collaboration as a specification. Ask yourself if this is a relationship you are happy to broadcast? If they’re nice people, with a good reputation and track-record, it rubs off on you. And vice versa. It should be a mutually-enjoyable association. Have a look at their website again; is there any indication of altruistic/charitable activities, or are they particularly eco-minded or community-motivated? Do these values mirror, or complement your own? The final litmus test is; are they a Software Development Company that you’re proud to say you’re working with?
