As businesses scale and grow, they often require more than just off-the-shelf, one size fits all software. Bespoke software solutions can often offer much more efficient and effective solutions for individual businesses. That’s why when it comes to software development it’s absolutely crucial you have the right people in place. That being said, here are our top ten factors to consider when it comes to choosing the best software development company for your business.
1: What are your requirements?
Before you start to look for a software development company, you’ll need to be clear as to the scope of your project. This will help you to filter potential companies that may not be a good fit for your business.
2: Research, research, research!
Start doing your research, check out various options and compare their prices, services, portfolios and testimonials. Just remember that not every software company is going to be compatible with your specific business and company culture. At Solubytes, for example, we offer quality customer service, great prices and we’re truly flexible.
3: How much does it cost?
Cost is always an important consideration when choosing any type of service provider. When it comes to software development, you need to strike a balance between quality and cost. It's important to find a company that offers competitive rates without compromising on quality or service.
4: Location, is it important?
Depending on the scope of your project, you should probably consider your software development company's location as another factor to consider. These days, with the wonders of technology, it probably won’t be necessary for the company to be based locally. But do ensure the company has an expert understanding of the market and any local laws or regulations. Also, if you do work with a remote company, you should consider if time zones are going to present a problem? If you will need to communicate in real time, you probably won’t want to choose a company based across the world who are finishing for the day, as you start yours.
5: Capacity
Do consider the size of your software development partner to suit the scope of your project. At Solubytes, for example, as a smaller business we can afford to be much more agile when it comes to adapting to your specific requirements than a larger company - we’re also able to compete much more competitively on price, a result of our lower overheads.
On the other hand, if you are representing a multi-million pound business and if your project is vast in scope, you may need a larger company that can handle the complexity and capacity of enormous workloads. Choose the right size software development company for your individual project.
6: Do they have the skills?
Your project may require a very specialized set of skills, and you should ask yourself if the company has the ability to deliver on your vision. For example, some software development companies focus on web development, enterprise software or on mobile apps for example.
7: What about customer service?
Do ensure that the company you will be working with is responsible and available when you need them (this is why time zones are important). Ensure they have good customer support, and ensure they are responsive and available when you need them. Just remember that communication is key when it comes to software development projects.
8: Testimonials!
Always try to get testimonials about your potential software development company, and whilst word-of-mouth recommendations are best, there will likely be many independent online reviews out there accessible via a quick trawl on Google!
9: Shop around
Once you've compiled your short list, start comparing quotes. Just remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best option for your business. Consider value, skills, ability and effectiveness, it’s always better to pay a little more for a quality service, than a little less for a bad service (that will probably end up costing more in the long run). At Solubytes we ensure great customer service, quality services, and great prices!
10: Sign on the dotted line
Consider all these factors with great care, make your final decision. Choose the best software development for your individual business and project. Sign the contract, keep things clear and transparent, and ensure that both you and your new partner are clear as to the scope of the project, and the expectations. Just remember that all software development companies are not created equal.
For more information as to how Solubytes can assist your business with bespoke software development projects, check out the rest of our site and drop us an email at: info@solubytes.com