Outsourcing software development has become a regular practice for many companies. Offshore development will cut the internal costs of the company while automating its business processes and customer service. Unfortunately, finding a good offshore development service provider is quite a difficult task. Due to the surge in software development, you will come across a lot of unworthy service providers who are not quality driven. Your cost effective plan by outsourcing software development will not pan out, if you don’t devise a good selection process to get a service provider. Cost and service level is the baseline for the outsourcing service provider. So what are the important factors that will determine a good selection process? The answer to that is simple with some careful decision making.
Commitment to Quality – This is the most important factor for outsourcing software development. After all, quality software will be the entire driving force of your business.
Price – It is vital that you pay a fair price to your service provider in order to get complete satisfaction. If you go cheap then you will not be able to squeeze good quality and service by pushing them a bit. You are doing offshore development to control your cost but at the same time, you must not compromise the quality of your demand.
Proven Competencies – Previous experience and competency is a much-needed combination for successful and on time delivery of your project. You don’t want to be stranded by service providers who don’t have financial stability. They must have an experienced staff with good problem solving skills.
Flexible Contracts – A short contract for a year is considered best for outsourcing software development. According to a survey, the length of the contract will determine the level of satisfaction. Short length contracts yield more satisfaction compared to long contracts. A short and simple offshore development contract will decrease the chances of legal conflicts.
Geographic Location – Countries that are in global crisis are bound to give you external problems. You sure don’t want to risk your offshore development by selecting a service provider in a crisis driven country.
Culture – Culture does not relate to religion or caste in the selection process but rather it is the professional outlook of the service provider. Service provider must be committed to give you customer service, quick turn around time and 24/7 availability.
Reputation & References – Your outsourcing software development plan should not underestimate the importance of this factor. A good service provider will put you at ease for having a proven track record.
These above factors are very important for a successful offshore development campaign. Besides the industry leaders in India & China, outsourcing software development is also gaining good reputation in Vietnam. By adhering to this selection process, you will have hassle free business collaboration with the service provider. Outsourcing software development is now a major factor in determining your company’s ability to be cost efficient. By carefully selecting your service provider, it will definitely help you in the long run.
Nhung Nguyen is the managing director of Orient Software ( http://www.orientsoftware.net ) – the leading outsourcing company in Vietnam.