10 questions to ask before outsourcing to app development companies

Idea Usher
6 min readSep 22, 2021

Many app development companies are out there, but not all of them will deliver the result you desire. The best way to locate a qualified IT outsourcing business for your project is to ask the right questions. These questions will help you find developers who understand your vision and build the app you want: a product tailored to your market and audience’s needs.

1. Could you show me any of your prior applications?

Experience matters a lot when it comes to software development. Of course, developers should have a lot of experience, but if they’ve already produced several apps, they’ll know what to expect and can assist you in various ways. Above all, a software firm should be willing to show you a portfolio of previous projects. You can also question the outcomes, such as how well their apps were ranked in app stores and what kind of comments they received.

2. Have you previously worked on a project similar to this?

The initial project may be comparable in terms of industry or features. Your potential IT outsourcing business will be familiar with the standards if they have already worked on a project in your industry. As a result, they’ll have a better understanding of your target market and the problems your product should solve.

If a software business hasn’t previously worked with your industry, it’s a good sign if they’ve already created a similar product. When you need payment integration or geolocation in your app, it will be easier if the software development company knows what to accomplish.

3. Do you mind if I chat with some of your clients?

If you could communicate with clients in your industry, it would be fantastic. They’ll be able to supply you with the most helpful feedback. Where do you think the most excellent spot to seek them is? Take a look at the portfolio or Clutch profile of the software development firm, for example.

Inquire about their general feelings toward this mobile app development company. Determine how well the project was planned and executed and the quality of the final product.

Also, inquire about how the software firm dealt with pressure and deadlines. You also want to know how accommodating they were and how well they communicated.

4. Do you have any knowledge of my business strategy, target audience, or goals?

A software firm should have a good understanding of your business model, requirements, and target audience. User Personas, for example, can be combined with other product workshop tools. You can also host a Design Sprint, a five-day workshop where you build a prototype of your idea. Only by having a solid understanding of your business goals and target demography will you be able to tailor the app to the needs of your potential customers. A software development company that does not understand it will be unable to create a successful mobile app that talks to its users.

5. What technology do you specialize in, and how well do your programmers understand it?

Inquire about the technology that your potential software outsourcing provider prefers. Examine their ability to adjust to new technology fast. First and foremost, find out how experienced the company’s developers are. They should explain how they would implement any feature or functionality, demonstrate a skill set, and show detailed portfolios of previous work and projects.

Consult your developers if you’re not sure what technologies to utilize. After that, a software firm should present and push for a solution on your behalf. You must also decide whether you want to build two native apps (which will take longer and be slower) or use cross-platform mobile app development. If you’re going to grow your reach quickly, the second option is preferred. As a result, you should seek out developers capable of producing excellent cross-platform software for you.

6. What is your project management process like, and how much will I be involved?

You must be familiar with the company’s operations and problem-solving procedures. If the software organization follows Agile principles and uses the Scrum approach, it is desirable. Agile software development is more organized, efficient and provides a better technique to create MVPs (Minimum Viable Products). Sprints are typically used to divide the Agile app development process (one or two-week intervals). After each sprint, the team gives you the results, provides feedback, and works together to set goals for the next one.

Your contribution will be critical in such a project, so inquire ahead of time about your level of involvement. Participating actively in the development process is, for the record, a good thing. The project may fail if you don’t do it.

7. How will we interact with one another during the project?

The success of your project hinges on effective communication. It must be transparent and truthful. Above all, your app development company should keep you updated on the project’s status at all times. As a result, you can be confident that your expectations are being met and everything is going smoothly. You should also be able to express any changes that are required. Maintaining a direct connection with the development team is also beneficial to avoid any delays or misunderstandings.

It’s also crucial to know what tools the software development firm will utilize to keep you informed.

8. Will I be able to view specific files?

You should have access to project files in addition to engaging with a team and receiving information about updates. You should have access to source code, a project management dashboard, and time reports.

9. How fast do you think you’ll be able to expand your team?

It’s vital to know how many projects the software company is working on right now and how many potential free developers they have. It’s common for your needs to alter during the mobile app development process. Your potential IT outsourcing business, on the other hand, should be able to scale up the team to match your requirements. Determine ahead of time how much time they’ll need to increase the group assigned to your project. If you desire to speed up the development, it’s lovely not to have to wait a few weeks for a supplemental developer.

10. How do you handle app store submissions, future upgrades, and support and maintenance?

It would help if you are looking for a company that can provide a wide range of services. The app’s distribution through app stores is only the first step. After that, the software house’s maintenance and support services will be required. An app development company should also monitor your app’s performance, correct any faults, and provide updates. Make a plan ahead of time; the contract should include it.

Finally, determine how long the mobile app development process will take and how much the complete project would cost, including future maintenance and upgrades. Above all, remember that the most affordable solution isn’t usually the best. Look for a software development company that understands your requirements. You also want a company that isn’t ashamed by its past projects offers open communication, flexibility, and excellent project management. You’ll need a company that can provide you with skilled developers who are willing to share their knowledge. As a result, you’ll get a product that satisfies your needs and has a good chance of succeeding in the market.

I hope these questions help you find the best app development company to outsource. You can also have a look and Idea Usher’s website- one of the best app and web development company and get on a free consultation call with the experts at Idea Usher.

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Idea Usher
Idea Usher

Written by Idea Usher

Powering startups with full-fledged end-to-end tech and marketing solutions with custom-made web and applications. https://ideausher.com

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