In this blog, we have collated a list of standout qualities to look out for before choosing and putting your business into the hands of a software consultancy.
There is a lot of advice out there within the world of software development. It can prove tricky determining which sources to trust. Even more so in recent years with AI making a big entrance onto the public scene. Everyone is talking about it. Businesses feel the pressure to adopt it. The reality is, it is still very much in its infancy. Chancers see an opportunity to hop on the bandwagon, claiming to be AI software development experts with very little knowledge!
So how do you find and choose a software consultant in this landscape? Whose advice can you trust on such a big investment? In this blog, we have collated a list of standout qualities to look out for before choosing and putting your business into the hands of a software consultancy.
Hire software consultants who understand the product goal
Heed advice from someone who can clearly articulate back to you your defined and desired outcomes. If someone can pitch your idea back to you with precision, then you can be confident that they will not only protect the integrity of your product or service, but will go on to provide innovative ideas that will lead to great success.
Hire software consultants who understand the commercial constraints
Expert advice will always account for any parameters in which your business must operate. This could be in terms of timeframe, but most likely budget. An experienced software consultant will ask questions along the lines of:
- How much do you rely on this to make back revenue?
- Is it self-funded?
- Is this to streamline a process or to generate new business?
Like a little Tetris puzzle, they will consider all these factors and find software solutions that not only operate within the boundaries, but optimise on the space therein.
Hire software consultants who can say NO
When your ideas are challenged, it can feel uncomfortable. However, it is so important to seek advice from software consultants who will level with you. You want someone who will provide impartial advice and push back when they think something could be done better or in a more cost effective way. Red flag if they don’t!
Receive any advice with an open mind; you never know what boundaries could be broken, what potential could be released! On the flip side, you will identify areas which are simply non-negotiable. A software consultant who acts in the best interest of their client, won’t be trying to push their own agenda or sell any unnecessary whistles and bells!
Do your due diligence
An obvious one, but worth mentioning: always do your due diligence. Read reviews, more reviews and even more reviews! Go to third-party, verified review sites such as Clutch or The Manifest. They are go-to places for businesses to validate potential business partners.
Find out what accreditations potential vendors have. As a minimum, any software development company or consultancy should be ICO registered and Cyber Essentials certified. Pore through their case studies and find out who they have provided services to. If big names are in their client list and trusted them with their reputation, it is a good sign you can too.
Have a read of their websites and social media profiles to establish whether you click. These projects are not completed in a day. You will find you actually spend quite a bit of time with these people. You want to get along. Like what you read? Arrange an initial meeting and see if the “working chemistry” exists in person.
If you are looking to invest in a new software development project or feel your business is overdue for a technological MOT, we'd love to hear from you. Check out our website to find out more about our software consultancy services. More specifically, if it is AI software development advice you seek, check out our AI software consultancy and software development division aiplusus.