The One Question You Need to Ask Before Choosing a Software Developer 

It may seem like a clickbait title, and to some extent you’re right. But there really is only one question you need to ask before choosing a software partner. And here it is.    

Are they the right fit for me? 

That’s it, that’s the question. And looking at it, it seems like it shouldn’t be hard to answer. But getting to that answer can be a long road. And in today’s blog, I want to look at the areas you need to think about to help you find the right software partner. 

I’ll break it down into short sections tackling areas you need to check before you can answer for sure if your new software partner is the right fit for you. 

Let’s Talk About Costs 

Check the cost to determine if they are the right fit. A tight budget shouldn’t mean a cheap provider. Avoid choosing a software house based on the cheapest offer. Lower costs might show lower quality or limited capabilities for future development. Look for a balance where the price corresponds to the quality and scalability you expect. If you’re struggling to budget, reach out to potential software partners. A partner willing to help set a realistic budget is likely to be a good fit. 

How Do They Analyze Costs? 

Consider how they estimate project costs. Do they conduct a detailed analysis of your needs through workshops or provide a quote based on a superficial overview? A thorough analysis shows a deeper commitment to understanding your project. Always ask how they estimate the costs and what went into the thought process. If they take the time to explain, it’s a sign they might be the right fit. 

Is a Bigger Software House Always Better? 

Think about the size of the software house to determine if they can meet your needs. Larger firms might offer innovative solutions but may not provide personalized service. Review the size of the company and what resources they are willing to allocate to your project. Ensure the size and dedication are adequate to deliver your project on schedule. 

Do They Have the Right Tech for Your Project? 

Assess their technological expertise to see if they align with your software development needs. A focus on specific technologies might indicate higher expertise compared to a broad array of tools. Prioritize companies that work with technologies you are familiar with. Additionally, ask about similar projects they have completed. Their experience in relevant tech areas is a good indicator of their capability to understand your needs. 

Check the Company’s Track Record 

Look into their history and reputation to gauge reliability. Research customer testimonials and reviews on platforms like Clutch. Pay attention to how they completed previous projects, focusing on the process rather than just the industry. If they can detail how they delivered on promises, they might be the right fit for you. 

Compare Overall Value 

Evaluate the balance between cost and quality. Sometimes, a higher hourly rate might be more economical if the company is more efficient. This is important for both staff augmentation and dedicated team models. Assess the skills of the team your software partner recommends and ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment. 

Do You Know Who Your Team Is? 

Ensure that the software partner offers developers that best fit your project. Understand the composition and dynamics of the team. It’s okay to ask questions about who you will be working with. A well-structured team with clear responsibilities tends to be more effective. Knowing your team ensures that they are the right fit for your project. 

Learn About How They Communicate 

Evaluate their communication practices. Discover the software house’s tools and methods, such as Jira or Trello. In the early phases, ask how they like to communicate. A good partner will ensure you are involved in the decision-making process and keep you updated on both successes and any issues. 

Do They Have Strong Testing in Place? 

Ask about their quality control measures. Effective testing is crucial for identifying and fixing issues early in the development process. A software partner that understands the importance of testing likely understands the quality you need. 

By focusing on these areas, you can answer that one question. Are they the right fit for me? The right partner will align with your needs, provide clear communication, and deliver quality results. That’s how you really know you have found the right fit.  
This article was created with the help of Inspeerity.