Choosing the Right Custom Software Developer

Choosing the right custom software developer is an important business decision. As the owner of a small business, you need to make sure that you’re partnering with a software vendor that can create software according to your needs.

Purpose
The vendor needs to make a valued addition to the business. By performing cost-benefit analysis, a business owner can conclude if the benefits accrued are more than the investment.

Need
Developing software involves endless innovations. Therefore, the logical point to consider is whether the need of your business can be fulfilled by a potential vendor. Answer this question; can the vendor satisfy my need in a cost effective and timely manner?

Types of Vendor
After performing due diligence comes the hard part, choosing a service provider. There are a few options that each carries pros and cons.

• Onshore Development

Often the best option however cost tends to be high due to US based wages.

• Offshore Development

From a cost effective perspective, this is a better option. However for projects that require collaboration between multiple teams this might not be optimal. Time zones and language barriers may lead to communication delays and/or problems.

• Specialized Onshore

Specialized onshore companies are likely to have expertise in the area of specialization making them ideal for complex projects. They are acquainted with the business environment in which the software will be deployed.

• Local Freelancer

These professionals tend to be moderately priced with a specific skillset. Complex projects could require more than one to complete the job. Not recommended for projects with multiple layers of complexity.

 
Previous Experience
Take a look at past projects executed. This will provide valuable insight into how reliable they are and what kind of projects they are capable of.

On Time Delivery
Look for a custom development company that has performed on time project delivery consistently. This is vital because it allows you to test the software and make sure there are no bugs. Best practice suggests setting a realistic deadline for the project.

Service Quality and User Experience
A software vendor needs to offer quality service. Being friendly and creating open lines of communication allow for vendors to incorporate desired changes made by clients.

User experience is one of the most important elements of deploying customized software from a 3rd party vendor. They can provide the most robust system conceivable but if the users find it difficult to operate then all is for naught.

Industry and Technical Expertise
They need to have adequate experience in developing custom software useful for your niche. If the firm has experience in your niche, it's an advantage.

Establish Budget
Custom software development may necessitate large spending unless planned accordingly. Fix the limit of your budget at a realistic level. Your budget will dictate the kind of vendor you work with.

Long Term Project
Attempt to negotiate with the provider on a long term. This will ensure consistency and good performance of the application. In addition, your employees will have adequate exposure to the software environment and familiarity with the developers.

There are numerous software development companies that create custom software. If you follow the points discussed in the article, it would assist in choosing a company that is likely to meet the goals of your business within budget.

JDi Data Corporation is providing workers comp software and claims software for 30 years. The product suite includes insurance management software and claims management systems for property and casualty, medical malpractice, risk managers, third party administrators, etc. To learn more about JDi Data workers comp software, visit our website.