{"id":1081,"date":"2023-09-01T16:02:04","date_gmt":"2023-09-01T21:02:04","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/rb-sns.com\/RB\/blog\/?p=1081"},"modified":"2023-09-01T16:02:04","modified_gmt":"2023-09-01T21:02:04","slug":"selecting-a-software-partner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/rb-sns.com\/RB\/blog\/selecting-a-software-partner\/","title":{"rendered":"Selecting A Software Partner"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

The success or failure of a project often rides on how good a company is at selecting a software partner. Software development has become almost a commodity in many areas. However, the team you choose or build is a critical factor in project success. No two providers are the same, and minor differences can have a substantial impact. There is far more than price, experience, or even portfolios that go into selecting the best team.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Selecting A Software Partner Is Like A Marriage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Few, if any, people choose to marry the first potential partner they meet. Likewise, they rarely leave the decision up to first impressions. Yes, we sometimes can quickly see a bad option and reject it. However, making a selection takes time, investment, and getting to know the partner. This approach should be the same in selecting a software partner. The “home page” view of them (experience, portfolio, and pricing) should be just the beginning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Explore The Portfolio and Experience<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

We can often start the selection process by discussing past performance. You likely want to avoid someone brand new at solving your problems (or similar ones) as well as those who have tried and failed. A good track record is not insignificant. It is just the beginning. Think of it as an icebreaker of sorts. The prospect’s history and experience are a gold mine for leading as well as open-ended questions. Get them talking about the problems they solved, the challenges they faced, and how they got through it all. These sorts of answers provide you with a wealth of information to judge whether they will be a good fit or belong on the rejection pile.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Goal Is A Solution<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

One should always start the search for a software partner with a clear idea of the problem or problems the partner will be asked to solve. A good partner will be able to offer solutions that suit the problem. Watch out for those who talk in generalities but seem unable to provide a path to a true solution. They will give you names of frameworks or processes and technical jargon. Yet, they will not be able to phrase your problem and a proposed solution in a way that makes sense. It can be tempting to hire a partner who talks above your head because they must really know their stuff. Yes, they might know their business inside and out, but you need a partner who knows and understands your business and pain points.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Common Mistakes and Incorrect Assumptions<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

There are a few areas where a software partner selection tends to go wrong. Avoid these mistakes, and you will be more likely to find the best partner for your needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n