The more options we have, the harder it gets to choose. There were over 550,000 tech business establishments in the US in 2019. With such an abundance of choice, this number is one of the reasons why selecting a tech enterprise to work with is not easy. If you need to choose a mobile app development company, you will very likely encounter the same difficulty.
Since you are looking for some tips on making a choice, you already know that the process is not like shooting fish in a barrel. At the same time, it is clear that finding the right software vendor is a crucial step for transforming your app idea into reality.
Choosing a Winning App Development Strategy
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Top 5 Considerations to Pick a Reliable Mobile App Development Partner
The question “How do you find the right app development company?” seems to be quite popular across the Internet. It also seems quite puzzling, though. In order to make things clear, we have outlined the key factors that will help you come to a decision and build a robust mobile app.
- Qualification and Experience
- References and Portfolio
- App Development Cost
- Communication Process
- Client Focus
- * Pro Tip: Ask the Right Questions
1. Qualification and Experience
Technology Experience
When you think about outsourcing mobile app development, that’s essential to learn about your technology partner experience in the first place. Same as you would trust your life only to a very skilled pilot, you would want to put your project into the hands of a software vendor with profound expertise.
Depending on your project idea and its goals, look for the development team that has vast experience in building iOS or Android apps, or better both. You might want to start with delivering a mobile app just for one platform and complement it with another in a while.
Find out What Mobile App Platform to Focus on First
The company well-versed in various mobile app development approaches will provide you with more options to deliver your idea. On top of that, they would be able to help you pick the right one for your project based on their experience and success of their clients.
Thus, always check what competences and tech skills they have to offer. This is a good way to make sure they can create your app in the most efficient way and come up with an accurately designed and elaborated solution.
Expanding a Team
Watch our webinar to unveil the tricks of onboarding a tech partner and incorporating it into the process to foster your product delivery.
Domain Expertise
Another significant moment you should ask the development companies about is domain expertise. Only those who have a deep understanding of your business industry can help you avoid major development pitfalls in this field and deliver maximum value.
Additionally, a software vendor with years of experience in your industry can also assist you with some business decisions. For example, they can advise you on some regulatory compliance or recommend a revenue model that will work better to monetize your app.
Choose the partner who will support you not only with app development but also with its distribution, maintenance, and updates.
Learn Why and How to Update Your Mobile Application
2. References and Portfolio
Positive References
One of the most reliable ways to verify the development company’s experience and reputation is to explore the reviews. The ratings and feedback provided by previous clients can prove the excellence of work and mobile app development expertise that you are looking for.
There are several trustworthy sources that list top mobile app development companies based on market research and analysis. Online directories such as Clutch, TechReviewer, or GoodFirms enable businesses to find and choose from leading digital agencies according to ranking and reviews.
Solid Portfolio
Another practice that helps choose a mobile app development company out of the list is going through its project portfolio. Consider checking success stories and case studies that prove a track record of smoothly delivered mobile apps.
On top of looking through the portfolio and reviews, you can always ask the software vendor to share the contacts of some clients with similar mobile app projects. Ask them for references as it is a good way to take a sneak peek at the experience and nuances of partnership.
3. App Development Cost
Of course, the cost of mobile app development is often the number one factor that determines the choice of partner. Yet, mindful of the saying you get what you pay for, don’t fall for the lowest price. Quality plays a crucial role here.
Learn How Much It Costs to Build a Mobile App
Mobile app development is a complex process involving the expertise of various professionals and encompassing many stages. The price greatly depends on the mobile app features and functionality, choice of platform, technologies, design, etc.
When estimating an app and comparing project costs, ask the potential partners to provide a detailed breakdown of work so it would be transparent for you what it includes. Make sure the cost comprises business analysis, development, UX/UI design, QA testing, and even app maintenance.
Learn How to Reduce Mobile App Development Cost
Additionally, ask the outsourcing company what pricing model they can offer you. Commonly, there are two options that you can choose from – Time & Material and Fixed model. According to your preferences and requirements, one of them would be more suitable than the other. Consult with your development partner to make the right choice.
Project Estimates
Watch our webinar to learn about the practical ways to evaluate your software project estimates.
4. Communication Process
Communication is the key to success not only in our private lives but also in business partnerships. Mobile app development involves a variety of team members with unique roles like BAs, PMs, Software Developers, UI/UX Designers, and QA Specialists. They all should have immaculate communication skills to ensure smooth collaboration and excellent performance.
In most cases, it is difficult to check how efficient employees work in a team unless you actually start interacting with them. However, when the first touchpoints happen and you have a chance to explain your idea to the potential partner, it becomes clear how strong their soft skills are.
In addition to the traits of each team member and the established process of internal and external communications, effective project management heavily relies on communication tools. Make sure you choose a company that uses platforms most suitable for you.
Read about Efficient Software Solutions for a Seamless Collaboration
Right cloud storage tools and project & task management software elevate productivity. Together with conference and chat apps, they provide real-time collaboration. For example, Teamwork Projects or Jira/Confluence allow everyone to follow the workflows, and Slack, Zoom, or Skype support online meetings and data sharing.
5. Client Focus
Bigger does not always mean better. What’s more important is knowing that the team working on your project is stable and fully devoted, has a deep understanding of your story, and delivers value invariably. All this can often be found in boutique software development companies.
These software vendors provide clients with more personalized services responding quickly to their needs and requirements. When you choose a mobile app development company of that kind, you can find that they are small enough to care but big enough to deliver top-tier mobile app solutions.
Generally, the benefits of working with such software boutiques are:
- Tailored product
- Detailed engagement
- Niche focus
- Clear communications
- Dedicated support
As a rule, the business of the companies with a tailored approach is built on trust. And we all know that trust is something every relationship should start with. Thus, look for a company that will support you with meaningful partnership focused on maximum flexibility in meeting your goals and addressing your challenges.
Ask the Right Questions
If we don’t receive the answers we need, maybe it is because we ask the wrong questions? To form a complete profile of the app agency and eventually choose the right one, it is important to pose the questions that help reveal red flags and find upsides.
Find out the Questions to Challenge Mobile App Developers
Interviewing software vendors allows you to make an informed decision. On top of that, it shows that you are no greenhorn and know the nuances well enough to speak the same language.
If you are thinking about building a mobile app and need a shoulder to rely on, then our team of highly-trained developers is happy to share its expertise with you. They have mastered the art of surmounting challenges and delivering elegant mobile solutions. Reach out to us, and we will answer all of your right questions!
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