Picking a development partner is one of the most important decisions in a software project. A clear checklist helps you compare options fairly.
Look at relevant experience
Ask for examples of similar projects and, where possible, speak to past clients. Experience in your industry or with your type of system reduces risk.
Check how they communicate
Regular updates, a named contact and honest answers about timelines matter as much as technical skill. Time zones and working hours should suit you.
Understand the process
- How requirements are gathered and confirmed
- How progress is shown, for example through demos
- How testing and quality checks are done
- How changes are handled once work has started
Clarify ownership and support
- You should own the source code and data
- Documentation should be provided
- Post-launch support and maintenance should be agreed in writing
Be wary of shortcuts
Unusually low quotes, vague scopes and pressure to sign quickly are warning signs. A good partner is happy to explain trade-offs.
See how we work on our Services page or contact our team for a free consultation.