Outsourcing software development is a great way to enhance your business ROI if done right. It can be a real game-changer for fast-growing medium and small-sized businesses. Outsourcing software development services can help businesses to get the software delivered faster and save money.
It might seem a little intimidating, to outsource software development services, especially if you’ve never done it before. Putting your trust in an outside company to deliver the results you are expecting is a big decision in any capacity. But, the truth is that it can benefit a business in so many ways.
However, to guarantee success it is critical to develop a strong outsourcing strategy, choose the right outsourcing partner, and create a reliable communication channel. In this blog, you will learn five proven processes, strategies, and key elements to outsource software development successfully. Let’s get started!
5-Steps to Outsource Software Development Projects
The following steps will ensure successful outsourcing —regardless you hire developers from part of the globe.
1. Develop clarity Around What You’re Building
It’s critical to have clarity around what you’re trying to build. Once you have a clear picture of your requirements, it will be easier and less time-consuming to communicate requirements to your development partners.
Ask these questions to have clarity around your requirements for a software development project:
- Is the concept brand new or it is tried and tested?
- Does the idea have a technical validation or do you have Proof-of-Concept (PoC) for it?
- What technology do you want the software to be based on?
- What problems this software product is expected to solve for its intended audience?
In short, it is significant to have a fundamental idea of what you want to build before diving into your search for an outsourcing partner.
2. Prepare a Scope Statement for your Project
Dig a little deeper before choosing a software development outsourcing partner. Fleshing out questions like deliverables, objectives, scope, budgets, and content will become the foundation for your project roadmap.
3. Decide if you want to outsource or not
It is time to decide between outsourcing and in-house development. After weighing several factors, you have to make an informed decision. It is critical to note that the price isn’t the only factor to consider. However, competitive pricing is one of the most significant benefits of outsourcing software development—especially if you find a competent team that is conscious of your vision.
4. Choose an Outsourcing Model
Outsourcing has three forms: managed teams, staff augmentation, and project-based outsourcing. Choose the model
that suits your budget, requirements, and long-term plans.
A. Managed or Virtual Teams:
The managed teams model is a hybrid of the Project-based and Staff Augmentation model. Managed Teams involve hiring a team of experts including graphic designers, Business Analysts, front-end and back-end developers, and QA Engineers to handle all or some of your projects.
This team will work in collaboration with the in-house team and will answer the in-house Project Manager. Unlike the Staff Augmentation model, this model typically does not involve the day-to-day management of individual employees.
B. Staff Augmentation:
This model involves outsourcing experts from outside companies to complete a project, usually temporarily. It will bridge the talent gap at your organization. The outsourced staff helps the in-house team to cross the finish line.
C. Project-based Model:
This outsourcing model involves hiring staff on a project basis. It will hand over the team management task to your outsourcing partner’s Project Manager, who will then work with you to communicate your requirements to their colleagues and create timelines.
However, it doesn’t mean giving up complete control. You will still be involved in decisions, including prioritization and feature development. It’s the most hands-off option available, and you won’t have to worry about managing the outsourced team.
5. Shortlisting Companies
Once you have decided what country you are going to outsource software development services to, you can narrow down the search. The following tools will help with an in-depth internet search to find software development agencies.
A. Software Development Review Websites
Websites such as GoodFirms, Clutch, Agency Spotter, G2 Crowd, and Crowd Reviews provide a curated list of organizations for software development. You can filter them based on reviews, locations, talent pool, hourly rate, and more to select the best software development agency.
B. Consult Industry Colleagues, Clients, and Friends
Talk to your colleagues and friends in your industry; who have experience in outsourcing software projects. It can assist you to find a few best companies in your niche. Choose an agency that has a proven track record of success.
C. Freelancing Portals
Searching freelancing portals for finding software developers is also a good idea. Some popular freelancing portals include Upwork, Toptal, Fiverr, People Per Hour, and Hireadev.com.
Conclusion
In conclusion, outsourcing software development offers many benefits-especially to small and medium-sized businesses. Improved product quality, Increased productivity, and cost savings are just a few of the advantages of outsourcing software development. However, you cannot outsource IT development effectively without developing a sound outsourcing strategy.
It is critical to take a systematic approach and plan everything, to develop a robust outsourcing strategy. We have outlined the process of outsourcing software development projects and finding the right software development partner. Follow the steps to ensure a smooth outsourcing process and enhance your business ROI.