When you work with a custom software development vendor, it’s essential that you make your needs clear to get the best results.

To accomplish this, keep two ideas in mind for the successful completion of your project…

1. Detailed pre-planning
2. Effective communication

Pre-Planning of Custom Software Development

You should be able to describe your vision of the final product precisely. Identify integration issues and plan a budget with input from developers, designers, and other stakeholders. You’d be able to do it accurately if you answer the following questions.

What Basic Functionality and Features Are Needed?

The functionality will be determined by the issues requiring solutions. What is the purpose of your customized application? For example, is it to improve the user experience or collect data to make better decisions?

What Existing Systems Need to be Integrated?

Expect this important question to come up early during your discussions. Figure out where you need integration, as well as whether these tools are custom-made applications or platform-based offerings like content management systems, custom relation management solutions, or enterprise resource planning solutions.

What’s Your Budget?

Before you begin your journey of selecting a custom software business partner, you need to have some idea about your budget. However, be ready to adjust as you make progress on your project.

What Operating Systems Will Your Software Run On?

Determine the product specifications by keeping in mind the operating systems you will use.

Effective Communication

When you’re outsourcing software development projects, you’re going to work with a team located in another time zone, with a different work culture and business communication customs. You won’t meet with your team physically. However, they need to clearly understand your requirements. Effective communication will play an important role in the success of your project.

Communicate Consistently

Conduct and attend meetings regularly with a well-prepared agenda. Decide who will take the lead on specific subject matters in advance. You’ll set clear expectations and make everyone feel like part of the team.

Communicate Clearly

Communicate clearly and transparently. Use technologies such as Slack or Microsoft Teams for communication with offshore development teams. A centralized platform keeps all stakeholders in the loop and reduces the chance of miscommunications or misunderstandings.

Communicate Short- and Long-Term Goals

If your people lose focus and get distracted, it affects the development process. So, meet with your team frequently to communicate identifiable goals, both in the short term and the long term.

Modern Tools for Effective Communication

With advances in technology, you can use audio, video, emails, and chat tools for communication. Make full use of them, and also brief your team in advance on your preferred methods.

Some newer methods of communication:

• Virtual chat rooms
• Video conferencing
• Project management systems

Conclusion

To make your project a success, plan well in advance, communicate effectively, and make use of project management platforms. If you have any questions, contact us.