The benefits of outsourcing software development projects are many but just like everything else, it also comes with challenges. We see an increase in the number of companies that outsource their projects and this number will continue to increase as outsourcing helps to save time and increase revenue. Despite its numerous benefits, some concerns related to outsourcing hold many companies from outsourcing their projects.
We will be exploring some mistakes you should avoid when you are looking to outsource your projects. If you don’t avoid these mistakes, you can face many problems with completing projects that you outsource. Success in this digital world lies in hiring talented software developers who can develop software according to the requirements. With all of that out of the picture, let’s have a look at some common mistakes that you should avoid when outsourcing a software development project:
Not Making the Right Preparations
A lot of things go into making sure a software development project goes off without a hitch. Without the right foundation and plan set up, even with the best resources, your project is likely to fail. Before calling up your outsourcing company, make sure to have a solid plan going first.
For starters, create a solid business plan for your project with a step-by-step guide on how you plan to achieve it. When outsourcing a developer, look for the best way to fit them into your plan to accommodate your needs. Figure out the best way to communicate with your developer and their team. Sort out a designated team from your company who will oversee the project and make sure things go smoothly. Iron out all the details before signing a deal with anyone.
Not Choosing the Right Partner
The easiest way to make a mess of your software development is to skip the research and outsource the wrong person for the job. Not choosing the right business partner to work with can cost you time and money and can spell disaster for your project.
To find the right development partner, you have to do some research. When looking for reliable software outsourcing companies, look for ones that can match your vision and can grow with you. Look at their experience with jobs like yours and get to know the people who will be working on your team. Look at their credentials and reviews and see if your partner company will be working solely on your project or not. Before jumping the gun and signing an outsourcing deal, be thorough in your research.
Outsourcing Partners that are Behind on the Times
Another common mistake that companies make when outsourcing is hiring someone out of touch. Software development is an incredibly competitive field, and you only need the best of the best for the job. To put your project’s best foot forward, you have to set it up with a tech-savvy and modern developer.
Your developer needs to be up to date with all the latest software, technologies, and tactics. If they’re behind on the time, your project will be developed by outdated technology. Your finished product might be too complicated to figure out by users if it’s not made by modern developers. This can hurt your brand image and sales, so make an effort to choose a partner who’s with the times!
Not Having All Your Ducks in a Row
One way to ensure that your software development project goes off without a hitch is to make sure that everything is up to par on your end. Not having all your ducks in a row can lead to mistakes, mishaps, and the failure of your project. To keep up your end, make an effort to have only the best and most qualified people for the job.
Create a team that knows what they’re doing and can get the job done with minimal hiccups. Make sure your team stays on top of their weekly goals and schedule so that the project doesn’t fall behind. Make sure there’s harmony and good communication on your end, and you’ll find that the project will go much smoother, no matter the developer.
Lack of Communication
As with many things in life, good communication is the key to the success of your development project. Without clear communication, both sides are more likely to misinterpret and make mistakes. This can lead to chaos and the development being disorganized, and can even lead to the failure of the project.
When outsourcing, always be clear about your wishes, visions, and expectations. Make sure your developer knows what you want and is aware of what your expectations are. Make good communication lines a top priority throughout the project. From between companies to each team member, communication lines need to be clean and functional. Create an environment where miscommunication and confusion can be ironed out easily.
Undervaluing QA Testing
Last but not least, the biggest mistake any company can make when developing software is to underestimate the power of QA testing. Quality assurance (QA) or testing is an essential part of the developmental process, and you cannot skip it if you want your project to be a success. Software development comes with a lot of bugs, and it’s irresponsible and inefficient to leave them to the end. Leaving the testing until after the product is developed is the worst thing you can do for your project.
Testing your product as you go can help you identify mistakes or problems early on and nip them in the bud. Doing regular quality control will save you time, money, and stress down the line and stop small issues from snowballing into bigger ones. Whether the problem is part of the code, developer, or team on the job, doing regular checkups is the key.
So there you have it! When outsourcing software development, always make sure to create a solid plan first. Once you’ve outlined your plan, choose the right developer to work with to get your product off the ground. Look for developers that fit your needs and are fresh with the times!
To avoid any hiccups in your development, make sure everything is under control on your end and keep all our ducks in a row. Be transparent with your developer and make good communication an integral part of the entire project. Last but not least, don’t leave the testing till last and make good use of QA. Whether you’re a big tech company or a small start-up, avoid making these mistakes, and you’re good to go!
Misaligned Collaboration
It’s always a challenge to effectively bring different people and skills together. Software outsourcing is all about collaboration, and it’s important your team think about this partnership as a two-way street. Doing so will make it much easier for you to create synergy and encourage everybody on your in-house team to think and work as partners with the outside team.
A Cheat Sheet To Finding Your Ideal Tech Partner
Now that you know things to avoid, here are three things to do at the outset when selecting a vendor:
1. Research your potential software outsourcing partner and their expertise in specific industries and technologies, as well as the company’s background, most recent projects and staffing abilities.
2. Request case studies and references from previous clients/customers. Be sure to read their stories carefully.
3. Asks questions to ensure your data will be protected and secure.
The Bottom Line
At the end of the day, outsourcing software development is all about having the right people do the right things. There is no single approach or clear methodology to find the right match in a day. Steer away from the most common mistakes and follow use-proven practices and real-life advice, and you’re already halfway to success.
