How to select a software development company?

Author: Hemang Rindani

A simple Google search may dish out a vast list of potential technology partners; however, stakes are high for ISVs or start-ups. They must consider many things and evaluate criteria to select the right partner and seize the opportunity to stay ahead.

A technology partner provides different levels of support to a business as it moves through the product application development life cycle. The spectrum includes ideation, technology support, marketing support, service and maintenance to save time, extend reach and reduce risks.

The selection of a technology partner may vary for each type of project.

General Criteria includes:

Industry and Vertical Depth

Does the technology partner/Offshore Product Development partner (OPD) possess vertical depth and technology expertise in developing software applications for your product area? How many products have they developed across the entire Pdlc or through different stages of PDLC? Does it have a proven track record through wide breadth of projects and a client list including reputable customers? How do they ensure securing IP and avoiding a breach of confidentiality? A good technology partner not only stays ahead of the learning curve in terms of latest technologies but also proactively allocates resources during each stage of product engineering life cycle so they can leverage the experience and resources to help ISV stay competitive.

Trusted Service and Maintenance Support

What we are talking about goes beyond the usual service maintenance; it is something which only a true technology partner who follows the mantra ‘We will stand by you come what may’ offers. They stick with you through thick and thin, stretch themselves and go the extra mile to go beyond the call of duty and achieve success.

Quality Certified Resources

Does the technology partner offer a qualified, certified team and invests in regular training and certification of their resources so they stay ahead of the learning curve? What is their headcount and can they scale resources and infrastructure on demand? Does the partner offer sufficient advantage in extending the reach of products and services to new industries and geographies?

To select a right software product development partner, you need to ask right questions to yourself while evaluating companies.