The Ultimate Checklist to Choose a Custom Software Development Company

Custom applications are those that are created to deal with the needs of a single individual or a certain department of a single company as opposed to the conventional and prevalent off the shelf applications. Such applications are usually created by a third party by contract or in house group of programmers and isn’t for reselling packaged.

Say you might have an idea, a vision to get a software job, an application, a site, or you’ve a business process crying out for automation…but you can’t do it yourself. How can you select a software development company to help you recognize your vision?

While Google and your friends may help in compiling a list of companies that will do your work, the toughest part is to narrow it down and choose one. In order to do that, you should ask define a few criteria:

1. Size

   Is it a massive undertaking, a modest job, a small job? All companies differ in capacity and choice. Some firms are just thinking about massive, multi-year, multi-business projects. More than a few companies specialize in just one type of job, for example business systems integration or cellular media programs. First decide the size of your project.

2. Technologies

   In case your job demands expertise in existing software or technologies, it Is very important that the firm you choose knows the technology in and out. Some firms may already possess the expertise you require, others might not.

3. Deadline

   Is your current software outdated and you’re taking too many hits? Or is there a trade show that you need to gear up for?
   The real question is ‘How long can you wait for it?’

   You will find limits to how fast software could be developed, analyzed, and delivered. More features take more time, so be prepared for that. You might have to trade features for time. Great software development firms can assist you in making trades that are wise and smart. Beware of those that assure everything!

4. Methodology

   Do you want to build a minimum-viable product as fast as possible and then build up on the basis of customer reviews and feedback?

   Or would you rather do extensive research and examine your software from all angles, do extensive prototyping and modelling and then finally produce the whole thing at once?

   Or maybe something that’s a little of both?

   Select an organization that will assist you in the way you want it done. Most firms have strategies that are preferred. Do not be surprised if some firms preach why they believe their way is the greatest, and insist on doing things just one manner. The choice is yours, but choose after going through all the options.

5. Volatility

   How likely is that your requirements change during the course of development of the product? Make sure the company you choose is willing to accommodate those fluctuations.

6. Budget

   You need to set a limit to the money your company is willing to spend on developing your software. Most software companies are willing to accommodate your budget but then you might have to compromise on certain features.

   However when you as for a quote, ask for a complete quote. No hidden costs, no later additions. Usually, the quote will be a range. Take quotes from those on your final list and choose the one that gives u the best deal.

7. Setup

   Once its ready to be installed, you and your company needs to know how to use it. Enquire if the development house will setup and provide a training course for your company. Though most of them do, it’s best to confirm.

8. Ownership

   Typically, if you pay for it, you own it. Make sure your contract explicitly states who owns it and is in compliance with the intellectual property rights.

9. Experience and past work

   Do a background check. Make sure the company has enough experience handling software development. Don’t hesitate to give their previous clients a call or to ask for references.

But in the end, trust your gut. Do You Like Them? Do they seem trustworthy? If the answer is yes, go for it!

Communication is key to the success any custom project, software, more so. We, at Redefine make sure that you and we work as team throughout the project to make sure it comes out exactly how you imagined it to be.

Give us a call to discuss your software development project with us and who knows, we might be the perfect solution to your problem.