If it's time to take your small business to the next level and you find yourself looking for custom software to take you there, "who you gonna call?" Finding the right custom software developer can be a real challenge for business owners unfamiliar with the software development process.

You are about to invest time and resources to create custom tools that will enable you to become more competitive and help ensure the continued growth of the business. You know the end result you want, but have little idea of how who, and how long it will take to get there. At DHx Software, we suggest you use the same method you would use to find any professional service and that is to solicit recommendations.

Talk to business associates, vendors, and even clients about their experience with custom software and software developers. This is the fastest way to become oriented to the software development process, pricing models, timelines, and nuances of these types of projects. It is also an effective way to build a shortlist of developers to investigate.

What You Want to Learn From Your Short List

Once you have built a list of prospective developers from referrals or your own search methods, it is time to start defining just what and how they develop software. Take the time to consider:

• Portfolio. It is just natural that software development firms tout their expertise and service levels. Check their portfolio of projects particularly with an eye towards delivery timelines, team size, and tech stacks. Pay particular attention to those firms who claim experience in your industry. Larger firms typically have greater resources and can take on a wide range of projects while smaller firms tend to specialize in specific niches.
• References. You want to team up with a developer with a history of successful projects. Take the time to contact the references they offer even knowing they will be positive. Not everyone's expectations and standards are the same and you can get an insight into how a developer performs by talking to customers. Pay particular attention to timelines, communications, and deliverables. How was success defined as was the project totally successful?
• US/EU Jurisdiction. Software development is a global industry. The US and the European Union have stringent regulations regarding use of sensitive data as it is applied to insurance, healthcare, and FinTech industries. If your business falls within those industries make sure your developer falls under US or EU jurisdiction.

Taking the time to research capabilities and reputation will not only help you in the selection of a developer but prompts you to more finely define what you want out of your custom software.

Sealing the Deal

When you are ready to select a custom software developer from your shortlist, focus on their responsiveness and communications skills. If you are not familiar with the technology involved, your only control over the process will be your ability to communicate your observations and concerns. You want a developer who understands that and is skilled at keeping you in the loop using language you understand.

So, it's time to come up with a price. Here is a quick rundown on typical pricing models:

• Fixed Price.  The simplest of engagement agreements and ideal for small projects. The scope of work is agreed upon and a fixed price is established. Changes are also fixed-price items.
• Time and Materials. If you don't have precise requirements or clearly defined specifications this model may be for you. It requires the flexibility of both parties. An upper limit budget is agreed upon but the time (and cost) and direction of the project is in the hands of the client.
• Dedicated Development Team. If you have an IT team and an IT manager but you need greater capabilities temporarily, a development team can assemble a full-time team with the skillset talent you want. You have operational control of this group. Billing is typically by the hour by the skillset.

If you have questions about a custom software solution for your company, schedule a call with the small business experts at DHx Software. We speak your language and we have the expertise, experience, and resources to assist you in taking your business to the next level. Contact us today and let's chat about your project.

Schedule a call with us to discuss your project. We have the business experience to understand your specific needs and to tailor a solution specific to you. Schedule now.