The chosen methodology will enable smooth development according to the project requirements.

All methodologies have strengths and limitations and work differently in different situations. To handle specific software development projects, teams need the right software development methodology.

However, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all methodology for every development team.

Here is an overview of the most utilized and recognized software development methodologies. This information will help managers to decide which is right for their team.

What Is Software Development Methodology?

The methodology for a software development life cycle is actually a structure.

Teams use it to plan and control the procedure of creating a specialized information system. This enables them to achieve the desired goals.

It can be used by massive organizations with large teams working on projects. Or by a single freelance developer.

Application development defines the process of how the application is made. It generally follows a standard methodology.

With this methodology, the software development process does not involve any technical aspects. But it does demand proper planning for the software development lifecycle.

Getting the best out of one depends on the team structure, requirements, and goals. It’s also possible to use different software development methodologies for different projects.

Waterfall Development Method

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Many view this as the traditional method of explaining the software development process.

It clarifies the process into a linear flow with a specified sequence. Users see that levels are progressive and depend on the completion of the previous one.

This application development method is like a waterfall because once you go down, you can’t go back up. Everything flows downward.

The development team works together over a set period of time. Their goal is to build exactly what the specifications outline.

Typically, they must finish one stage before beginning the next. This can help with organization and assignments.

Knowing the full scope of the project in advance makes it easy to measure software progress.

Application

The waterfall method is often used by plan-driven teams who have a very good view of the nature of the project. However, development teams who do not work in a gap  can also find good outcomes with the Waterfall model.

Pros

• The linearity makes it easy to understand, particularly for new developers.
• It is easy to manage projects because of the rigidity of the model. Moreover, each phase has specific deliverables and an individual review process.
• All specifications and deliverables are spelled out before the development commences.
• This model saves a significant amount of time, with all phases processed and completed at a given time.

Cons

• The waterfall development method is often slow and costly. This is due to its rigid structure and tight controls.
• There is no possibility to develop working software until the last stage of the cycle.
• It doesn’t include customer feedback in the early phases. This increases the risk of the project veering off target.
• Testing is only executed at the end of the development. Some problems are harder to fix at a later stage.

Agile Development Methodology

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Teams use the agile development methodology to minimize risk. Risks include such things as bugs, cost overruns, and changing requirements.

This is especially vital when adding new functionality.

In all agile methods, teams develop the software in iterations. Each iteration contains mini-increments of the new functionality.

Agile separates work into distinct phases called sprints. Each sprint lasts a few weeks, during which team members pursue a list of deliverables.

The agile development team members and the Scrum master check the task as the sprint ends.

Agile values individuals and their relationships and interactions more than tools. It features customer collaboration throughout the development process.

It responds to change instead of following a set-in-stone plan. It also focuses on presenting working software rather than documentation.

Application

Agile project management methodology is also more team or squad-based.

RAD involves working directly with a programmer. With Agile, the application development team includes testers, UX designers, technical writers, and many others.

Some may need a framework for development that can help to deal with the volatile marketplace dominated by consumers. They should definitely consider implementing the philosophy of Agile software development.

The Agile methodology is ideal for projects with fast-changing requirements.

Those building software in a new niche will want to use Agile. It works best to implement the additional ideas as one learns more about the market needs.

Pros

• It minimizes peril by creating software in short time boxes, known as iterations. These can last from one week to one month.
• Clarity between team members during development, thanks to the frequent and transparent development.
• Changes in project requirements are easy to address and work on with little impact on the timeline.
• Customer satisfaction by rapid, continuous delivery of useful software.
• People and interactions are key, rather than processes and tools. Customers, developers, and testers have constant interaction with each other.
• Agile methodology has an adaptive approach. It enables users to respond to the changing requirements of the clients.

Cons

• Those used to the waterfall method may have difficulty adjusting to an agile SDLC.
• The team can sometimes lose focus due to overwhelming change requests.
• Documentation takes a back seat in Agile, which can be a problem later on in development.
• At the start of the software development life cycle, it is hard to assess the effort needed. This is the case with some software deliverables, especially the large ones.

Feature-Driven Development Methodology

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Feature Driven Development, or FDD is a software development methodology based on Agile. Its goal is simple, to prevent confusion that leads to costly rework.

FDD is sometimes mistaken as focusing on each of the software features. It is not.

To keep clients satisfied, developers calculate what features they can create. They break complex requests into smaller feature sets.

Then they put together a plan for how to reach each goal on time.

For frequent and efficient production of tangible software, FDD has five steps. The first step is to develop an overall model.

Next, build a feature list and then plan by each feature. The final two steps—design by feature and build by feature—will take up the majority of the effort.

At each step, the methodology encourages status reporting. This helps to track progress, results, and possible errors.

Application

This is an iterative methodology for software development. It aims to serve lots of teams working on a project based on object-oriented technology.

It is a good model for companies that are passing from a phase-based method to an iterative approach.

Pros

• Breaks down complicated tasks into smaller activities, which fuels efficiency.
• Based on predefined standards and best practices, which leads to predictable success.
• With this model, progress tracking of the project happens by a feature that is a focused approach.
• It allows multiple teams to work simultaneously. Which, in turn, saves time.
• FDD helps to move larger size projects and obtain repeatable success.

Cons

• The rigid structure of FDD makes it less desirable to teams who balance project-driven and break-fix types of work.
• Not an ideal methodology for smaller projects. So it is not good for an individual software developer.
• It places a high dependency on the main developer. That person must be able to act as coordinator, lead designer, and mentor.
• It can sometimes deviate from delivering value to the end-users. This is because the model is driven by activities.

DevOps Development Methodology

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DevOps is a popular term gaining a lot of attention. This is because of the unconditional benefits it offers to its customers.

The siloed process of Development and Operations is not the same as the inception of DevOps.

DevOps is not only a methodology for development. Rather, it is a series of activities that sustain an organizational culture.

The deployment of DevOps focuses on operational reform. This strengthens coordination between the divisions responsible for the development life cycle.

Such divisions include development, quality assurance, and operations.

Development and operational teams can work on things at the same time. This is thanks to the continuous integration and continuous delivery model.

They can perform everything, from development, quality assurance, and security, to other operations.

Application

DevOps may be particularly appropriate for founders of a technology startup. It can provide them with a quicker way to build apps.

It is also useful for project managers who need a more effective series of program testing procedures.

Pros

• A significant reduction in time to market and improved customer satisfaction.
• Simultaneous multiple ongoing processes. This makes the process faster and easier for businesses to process on time.
• With increasing changes in the product and infrastructure, the developed products are robust and secure.
• This is a collaborative platform pillared on strong parameters of accountability and ownership.

Cons

• Some customers don’t want continuous updates to their systems.
• Some industries have strict regulations. These require extensive testing before a project can move to the operations phase.
• If different departments use different environments, undetected issues can slip into production.
• Some quality attributes require human interaction, which slows down the delivery pipeline.
• Speed and security are not always achieved using DevOps.

Scrum Development Methodology

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The Scrum development methodology is useful in almost all project forms. As a phase of software development, it starts with a brief plan for each sprint.

Regular scrum meetings follow that demonstrate the success of the project. It concludes with a final analysis.

Team members break down end goals into smaller goals at the beginning of the lifecycle. They work through them using fixed-length iterations, or sprints.

In each sprint (which usually lasts two weeks), they build software and showcase it often.

It is a perfect approach because it is easy to track and progress projects.

Application

Scum is the go-to methodology if you have a project with vague requirements. The series of iterations help to generate the required software.

Pros

• Short iterations allow quick resolutions to problems.
• Scrum mixes the structure and discipline of more traditional software development methodologies with the flexibility and iterative practices of modern Agile.
• Decision-making lies in the hands of the team.
• Business requirement document is considered insignificant
• Scrum is economical and effective.

Cons

• There is no definite end date. So stakeholders may be tempted to keep demanding new functionality.
• It can lead to an inaccurate estimation of project costs and time. Thus, the development model suffers.
• It is good for small, fast-moving projects, but is not suitable for larger projects.
• All team members must be equally skilled and committed for Scrum to work.
• This methodology needs experienced team members.
• Project quality management is hard to implement and quantify. For this reason, the test team should conduct regression testing after each sprint.

Rapid Application Development

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The RAD approach came out of the need to deliver applications in a very short amount of time. In a nutshell, it’s a high-speed adaptation of the Waterfall method.

It achieves rapid development by using component-based construction.

The Rapid Application Development method contains four phases. These are:

1. Requirements planning
2. User design
3. Construction
4. Cutover

Phases 2 and 3 repeat until the user confirms that the product meets all requirements.

This methodology aims to improve the workability of the whole software or web application project. for highlighting the participation of an active user.

Application

For the best results, ensure to have a team of experienced developers. It also requires customers who are equally involved in the project.

Communication is key to realizing projects with the RAD method. Invest in RAD tools like low-code/no-code applications to speed up the development.

Pros

• As a result of prototyping in nature, there is less possibility of defects.
• Each phase in RAD delivers the highest priority functionality to the client.
• Risks reduction through regular customer feedback.
• Makes the entire development process effortless.
• Assists clients in taking quick reviews.
• Encourages feedback from customers for improvement.

Cons

• It only works on systems that can be modularized.
• Progress and problems are hard to track as there is no documentation.
• Dependent on the team for performance.
• Requires very skilled personnel to handle complexities.
• Not applicable for small budget projects.

Extreme Programming (XP)

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With Extreme Programming, customer involvement in the software building process is high. This agile software engineering methodology is presently known as XP methodology.

In general, XP follows a set of values, rather than steps. These include:

• simplicity (develop what is required, nothing more)
• communication (teams must collaborate and work together on every piece of the software)
• consistent feedback
• respect

Application

Its prime use is for crafting software within a very unbalanced atmosphere.

The main goal of the XP model is to lower the cost of software requirements. It is quite common for the cost of changes at later stages in the project are very high.

Pros

• It focuses on customer involvement
• Establishes rational plans and schedules
• Developers have an exceptional commitment to the project
• Equipped with modernistic methods for quality software
• Allows software development companies to save on costs and time for project realization.
• This model is consistent with most modern development methods. So, developers are able to produce quality software.

Cons

• Effectiveness depends on the people involved
• Requires frequent meetings for development raising total costs
• Necessitates excessive development changes
• Exact possibilities and future outcomes are unknown
• Some specialists say that it is more focused on the code rather than on design.

Lean Development Methodology

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The Lean methodology focuses on the development of low-budget software that is change-tolerant.

It maximizes resources by developing software with one-third the funds, human efforts, and production time. The workflow of Lean is minimal, and it cuts all forms of excesses such as meetings, documentation, and so on.

Lean development is born out of the Lean manufacturing principles of Toyota. Lean philosophies, practices, and tools help to innovate at scale.

The basic principles of Lean are:

• optimize the whole
• eliminate waste
• build quality in
• create knowledge
• defer commitment
• deliver fast
• respect people

These principles can guide decision-making across the organization. It helps to unearth potential issues and maintain a healthy organizational culture.

Application

Lean development is ideal for small projects with tight budgets. Minimizing waste and increasing efficiency allows small teams to achieve tremendous results.

Across industries, the Lean model reduces development costs and improves quality. It also increases productivity and improves customer satisfaction.

Pros

• The early elimination of waste speeds up the development process and reduces costs.
• It allows the team to speed up the development. Most projects complete in short time frames, beating deadlines.
• The Lean methodology empowers the development team. It motivates them to build acute decision-making abilities.
• Delivering a high-quality product on time leads to increased customer satisfaction.
• Increased motivation amongst team members.

Cons

• The method is team-dependent. So it’s essential to put together an excellent team with exceptional skill sets.
• Lean development requires detailed documentation.
• To benefit time and budget, all decisions must be accurate and final.
• To keep the project focused on the plan, there is a restriction on flexibility. This avoids unnecessary deviation and time loss.

Conclusion on the software development methodologies you could use

Software development methods are a vital part of any development project.

This article considered eight of the best. But there are several other methods to consider.

For instance, Dynamic Systems Model, Prototype Model, and Object-Oriented Development (OOD). Each one has its own strengths and weaknesses and works well in different situations.

From industry experience, software development methodologies are more functional with certain project types. Different complexities demand different experts and levels of experience in the method of choice.

It is beneficial for software developers to know about these different methodologies. Thus they can select the right one for their software development projects.

If you enjoyed reading this article on software development methodologies, you should check out this one about software development outsourcing trends.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like lean software development, offshore software development, lean software development principles, how to hire a web development team, software development budget, business pivot examples, financial projections for startups, financial software development companies, IT outsourcing failures, and risk management processes.

The post The Software Development Methodologies You Could Use appeared first on TMS.

Using these principles leads to optimized programming efforts, budgeting, and lower defect rates. Optimizations can be up to 33%.

Many organizations can benefit from Lean development principles. They eliminate extensive pre-planned specifications.

User stories form the basis for the software development process. These are easier to understand than long lists of specifications.

Making something that no one wants or likes is a waste of time and money. Lean manufacturing focuses on providing quality and value for clients and production teams.

This article will first discuss the history of Lean development. Then it will show how to apply it and why it is so good for companies of any size and makeup.

Applying these principles is not straightforward; it requires a change in thinking. This guide also explains what the concepts of value, wanted, and others mean in the setting of Lean software development.

What is Lean Software Development

In general, Lean development is a management framework. It helps to optimize the use of time and resources.

This eliminates waste and delivers the product in its most essential form.

The basis of the Lean philosophy is an iterative cycle of trial and error. Some have summarized it as: “fail early to succeed sooner.”

Innovation is at the core of developing digital products. Yet, failure is a healthy element of a software development process as well.

Another expression used in this connection is Minimum Viable Product, or MVP, strategy.

A development team markets a minimalistic version of their products. Then they use user feedback to learn what is good about the product or what consumers would like to see added.

Agile or Lean principles are very similar. They both focus on the people in the team, rather than on the tools that the project uses.

They both give the people a lot of power and freedom to act and make unified decisions.

But there are also some differences. Lean focuses on the optimization of workflows.

It does this by monitoring the amount of work that a process requires. It aims to eliminate any part of the process that does not add value.

On the other hand, Agile principles break down tasks and organize them into sprints. It focuses on small amounts of work that are then executed quickly and efficiently.

Even though there may be parts of the sprints that have no direct value, they are not eliminated. The focus is more on delivering the working product.

The History of Lean Software Development

To understand how lean software development started, think back to the middle of the last century.

The Japanese car manufacturer Toyota was experiencing problems with its product delivery. They noticed that the manufacturing processes were too long.

Hence, the company was not able to deliver its products on time. They understood that they needed a different project management system.

The Lean manufacturing principle finds its origin in car production. If you know about Toyota, this isn’t news to you. If you don’t, you can check out this video:

Yet the same principles are equally applicable to other fields.

It also works in fields like banking, engineering, product development, and supply chain. It has only recently that these principles found application in software development.

After the publication of the Agile Manifesto, developers began to take an interest in other approaches to their work. The Lean philosophy found use in software development around 2003.

What interested the Lean development pioneers was the focus on the complete organization. The introduction and final achievement of Lean projects are by iterative cycles.

Every cycle, developers remove anything that does not add value to their product. That helps to constantly test and check the product and detect bugs.

What are the Strengths of Lean Software Development?

The introduction of the Lean software development methodology does more than streamline teamwork. It has benefits for the entire organization.

It improves cost-efficiency, productivity, and profit. This is the result of the combination of well-defined principles and work practices.

Lean principles focus on making products that exactly fulfill the needs of customers. It prevents a development team from making features that no one wants.

To do this, it obtains information straight from the source, the customer.

A Lean development strategy consists of short iterations. This gives the team a chance to work with a small set of plans to start with.

Then, in small iterative cycles, the developers make needed adjustments and anticipate situations. Thus, they have the power to work fast and put improvements in place in a flexible way.

This provides major advantages in decision-making.

Lean and Agile software development methods make organizations reconsider their quality control systems. That in turn changes the way they deal with release readiness.

Quality monitoring is not only a job for higher management. Rather, it becomes part of everyday communication between members of the developing team.

Finally, the focus of Lean software development is positive. It looks in the first place at adding value, not at eliminating costs.

Lean Software Development’s Strengths

It Eliminates Wasteful Losses

Lean software development aims at delivering essential features.

Once the minimal viable product is on the market, the development team can learn what to improve. They can also see how to prioritize this work.

Customer input is vital in this stage. Unproductive work and investments are thus prevented.

It Generates Innovative Solutions

A Lean software development team will want to add value and invest time in innovating. Innovation is at the core of present-day advancement.

It Shortens the Development Cycles

The advantages of shorter production times are obvious. The team can deliver more in a shorter amount of time.

That allows an organization to deliver more projects, which benefits the finance department. It also helps to keep customers satisfied.

Rationalizes and simplifies the development process

Lean software development principles help make the development process simpler. It eliminates unnecessary stages.

That makes it more focus-oriented, faster, and cheaper. It saves on the most important resources, money, and time.

Increases the team involvement rate

A Lean development team is much more involved. This is because it puts a large part of the decision-making in their hands.

Employees that feel empowered form a more motivated team. The value of this cannot be overstated.

Lean principles eliminate micromanagement and the forced execution of decisions. Both are demotivating management techniques.

Motivated team members with decision-making powers deliver higher quality end products.

It Reduces Redevelopment of the Product

Having to redevelop because a product was not made right in the first place, is inefficient.

Lean Management Tools

• Inventory management.

This reduces the number of operations. It involves the application of constraint and queuing theories.

• Kanban

Kanban is a workflow management system of Japanese origin. Its goal is to prevent the simultaneous completion of different process stages.

This is to prevent the overloading of other process stages.

• Value stream mapping.

This is a method to visualize an entire software development lifecycle. It starts with the client’s request and ends with the deployment stage.

It helps to understand and optimize the amount of time spent on things like processing and downtime.

Seven Lean Principles of Software Development

The next section is based on Mary and Tom Poppendieck’s book “Lean Software Development: An Agile Toolkit”. This shows the effective application of lean principles to the development of software.

Below is a summary of the principles.

Eliminate Waste

The elimination of waste is an indirect focus of the Lean methodology. The production of waste takes away value from the product that the client receives.

In this context, waste can refer to activities like rebuilding code or testing code. Or doing any activity more than once.

This may sound innocent but it bears a variety of quality issues. Lean means being more efficient.

According to the methodology, it’s vital to eliminate anything that does not add value. More specifically, this refers to defects, partial work, idle time, and unnecessary features.

This reduction is the first principle of Lean software development. It defines the entire philosophy.

Below is a list of types of waste that it tries to get rid of.

• Data duplication
• Engineering process delays
• Communication inefficiency
• Quality issues
• Tasks overload in log
• Unnecessary code and features
• Unneeded and stifling bureaucracy
• Unclear requirements
• Costs associated with the aforementioned

Build In Quality

A second guiding principle in any Lean development process is quality management. Poor quality management leads to different kinds of waste, as discussed above.

All development teams want to build quality into their work. Yet, quality is not always expressed in the product.

Consistent quality is only possible if this is part of disciplined practice. Often, attempts to make a quality product lead to waste in excessive testing.

A first step in building quality is free communication between the team and the client. This helps the development team to make the product the client wants.

A second one is to think about how to eliminate anything that creates waste. For example, make it a practice to immediately fix bugs, instead of making a long backlog.

Avoid task switching, test code immediately, and create automation. That keeps the quality of the product as high as possible throughout the development process.

In the Lean approach, team members build and integrate all the time. Continuous integration reveals if all parts are working and working together well.

That keeps each part of the development phase productive.

Create Knowledge

Lean software development has its roots in Lean manufacturing. In manufacturing, Lean deals with simplification and standardization of production lines.

So, it was necessary to generate knowledge of the process and make unusual changes. The Lean concept comes with the “amplify learning” concept.

This concept proved to be a game-changer.

As teams move through projects, they gain a deeper understanding of what a client needs. They also learn what the limitations of their products are.

The code that developers produce is usually not Lean from the beginning. They will find errors and bugs and then try to improve the code.

This is part of the learning process of developers. They gain knowledge by solving problems and making variations on their initial code.

This teaches an important lesson.

In Lean software development, improving existing code and building on it is the best approach. It generates more understanding than detailed planning and documentation.

Decide as Late as Possible

Managing a project requires a balance in planning. Planning is necessary, but a long rigid list of tasks and dates is counterproductive.

Planning is not the same as making a commitment.

Software development has many uncertainties. Making late decisions allows for making better-informed decisions.

With time, more information becomes available. Hence, delaying a big decision is the best way to go.

Late decision-making is something to build into a project.

The Lean methodology aims to produce flexible software so that it is easy to add or change features. That is something to consider for after the release of the product.

But it emphasizes that software projects contain a high degree of uncertainty.

The next point may come as somewhat of a surprise. Late decision-making saves money.

This is due to the fact that it helps to shorten development times.

Deliver Fast

A happy customer is more likely to stay than one who has to wait for their product. Fast delivery also saves time for the developing agency.

Short development cycles are also beneficial in terms of the learning curve. Developers learn much more from the feedback they receive.

It allows clients time to think about final details, like design. Again, this helps to eliminate waste in both learning and communicating.

Of course, everybody wants to deliver their work as fast as possible. So, what is preventing them?

These are some common time consumers:

• Slow communication
• Over-engineering solutions
• Thinking too far ahead

Respect for People

Development teams need general plans and reasonable goals. With that, they should know how to work based on empowerment and self-direction.

They are very skilled people and well able to use their heads to solve problems.

Helping developers to develop independent thinking skills is part of the Lean approach. People that work and think autonomously can make very good decisions.

This philosophy is part of the Agile and Lean development methodology. Encourage independence and respect in the following ways:

• Proactive and effective communication
• Empower others to give their best
• Encourage healthy conflict
• Tackle any work-related issue as a team

Optimize the Whole

Lean software development does not leave room for narrow-mindedness. At best, optimizations will be local, not company-wide.

A small picture approach will hamper the growth of the company and will push it into a small niche in the market. Instead, think broad and long-term.

The perception of the user and the software’s characteristics must coincide. If that is the case, the customer will enjoy working with it and perceive the system as reliable.

Conceptual integrity means that the components of a software solution work well together. The total product is better than the sum of all components.

There will be a balance between efficiency, flexibility, responsiveness, and maintainability.

Ending thoughts on lean software development

Everybody is looking for better efficiency in the workplace. Achieving this often requires a change of mindset to improve work practices.

It also requires the right methodology. Many companies find the Lean software development approach works well for them.

It helps to streamline processes. It forces teams to cut out anything that does not contribute to the value of the product.

Another key element of this approach is to keep the software developers at the center. They are the ones that will deliver the quality product.

To summarize, these are the core principles of the Lean approach:

• Continuous improvement
• Respect for people
• Continuously experimenting, failing, and trying again
• Currently, Lean is the best management solution for the tech industry. It’s all about speed.

Mistakes are fixable in subsequent iterations.

Pay attention to what the end-user thinks about the product. That helps the development team to come up with fresh ideas.

If you enjoyed reading this article on lean software development, you should check out this one about software development outsourcing trends.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like offshore software development, lean software development principles, how to hire a web development team, software development budget, business pivot examples, financial projections for startups, financial software development companies, IT outsourcing failures, and risk management processes.

The post This Is Why Lean Software Development Is Amazing appeared first on TMS.

Preparing before starting a project determines the success or failure of the product.

A well-prepared process requires purpose, clear objectives, schedule, revisions, and deliverables. With these, a project leader can gain an understanding of costs and resources.

Defining these parameters will make a project run smoother. Too, it prevents it from slowing down or coming to a halt.

This article discusses the reasons for having a software development plan in place. It will show how to make one and provide some practical tips.

What a Software Development Plan Is

Every software development project has some features in common.

The process starts with conceiving an idea. Next, its design, realization, and programming.

It should also include the later parts of the application’s life cycle.

In its simplest form, a software development plan is a timeline of the project. It shows the scheduling for each phase, when it starts and when it finishes.

Zooming in on a phase shows the different substeps that it entails.

A software development plan communicates the approach that the project will take and the needed resources. This is important for the project team members, as well as clients and other stakeholders.

The development plan answers the following questions:

• What problems does the software project aim to address and solve?
• What are the main tasks?
• What are the resources that the project involves?
• When during the project are the resources needed?
• Which is the functionality chosen to address the problem?
• What is the estimated time to complete the project/sprints?
• What are the milestones, deadlines, deliverables, and dependencies?
• Who are the ones involved in the project?
• What are the responsibilities of each team member?
• How is the quality measured? What are the quality metrics?

There are different things that managers may include in the software management plan. These are the minimum:

• The expected outputs of the software.

The functionality details are not defined at this point. However, the plan should document the outputs.

• Who will release the software? This is often the principal investigator, project manager, or lead developer.
• The revision management procedure that the software development process will use.
• The license for each output.

How to Write a Software Development Plan

To construct an effective software development plan, it’s vital to understand its importance.

Below are the most common phases of a software development project. Use them as a guide when detailing the phases and elements of any project.

Analysis and Planning

After a client puts in a request for the development of software, the management team sits down to plan. These are some important elements to consider:

• Alignment. How does this project fit in with the company’s mission and goals?
• Resources. Does the company have the human and other resources to achieve project success?
• Scheduling. How does this project align with the timelines of other projects and goals?
• Cost. How much will it cost?

Get all the involved departments together. Do not forget developers, project managers, security, and other stakeholders.

Define The Goals

When defining the goals of the project, specify intentions, visions, and preferred endpoint. Such clarity makes it easier to predict the outcome of the project, both for the client and the company.

Defining the goals is also essential to write a realistic and concise project plan.

Software should automate certain tasks, boost productivity, or streamline processes. The exact goal should be clear.

With that in mind, define how to quantify the success of the project. Many managers make use of a Gantt chart to visualize this part.

Create a Team

Often, software development is teamwork.

Teams consist of various individuals. Each one brings their specific skills to the table.

That is important because the project also consists of different aspects. Selecting the right people contributes to the success of the project.

Some software development project teams are further divided into several smaller teams. Each sub-team then has its own special focus.

This can help to bring out individual skills and strengths.

In other instances, it is necessary to outsource certain tasks. This occurs when the company lacks staff with specific skill sets or other resources.

Some companies use external companies for recruiting and assembling a team.

With the number of people and departments involved, it is necessary to have one person that determines the direction. There should be one senior project manager who is the final decision-maker.

This should be someone with skill and experience in planning and executing a project.

Resources and Requirements

With the goals defined, teams can see what resources they need to achieve the desired outcome. When writing down the needed resources, think about the following elements:

• Resources
• Budget
• Time

Each element is vital to accomplish the work involved in reaching the set objectives. The resources will differ for each software development project plan.

This depends on the idea and size of the project. The availability of the resources defines the timeline and deliverables.

But there is more to this section than listing resources. It helps developers to understand the needs and goals of the software development process.

The length of the list will depend on the software project.

There are many factors to consider. They include the scale of the project and how detailed the initial requirements and goals were.

Large projects often involve many stakeholders or broad objectives. In those cases, specific targets can change at any moment.

Hence, allow for flexibility. This makes it possible to absorb any sudden changes and still hit the targets.

A skilled project manager can define in detail the needs of the software development process.

Constraints and Risks

Now, the clients, developers, and other parties can identify potential problems. Particularly problems that can slow down or stop the process.

They can classify them by production stages, such as development or product launch. It is good to also consider unforeseen circumstances.

Many software development teams use a risk matrix to identify potential issues. It then shows the likelihood of it occurring and predicts its impact.

Other often-used terms are chance and risk extent or severity.

There are two sides that a manager must consider. The technical risks and the business risks involved.

Some potential problem areas include:

• Support from management
• Appropriate schedule
• Appropriate budget
• Availability of skilled software developers.

Map the Business Processes

Analyze the activities of lower-level coworkers. Consider how they work and what they use to do their assignments.

Turn these activities into a flow diagram.

There is not one single approach to mapping business processes. In fact, there are various excellent methodologies available.

One of them is the Agile Methodology. It relies on short sprints to accomplish deliverables and maximize progress.

Consulting people from senior management is one way of dealing with bottlenecks. Yet, consulting people on the work floor may provide a very different angle on the issue.

The size of the organization will determine who and how many people to involve in the process.

Budget Estimation

This section is, of course, very important. Every action related to a software development project has a cost associated with it.

That is why it is so important to first define plans, requirements, and objectives. That will help to make an estimation of the total project cost.

There has to be a balance between budget and quality.

For that reason, many companies now opt to outsource the development work offshore. They have found that it is more cost-effective than doing it in-house.

Create a Timeline

A software development plan sets out a rough definition of the project phases at an early stage. The timeline gives a detailed plan of the needed steps and their deadlines.

This is the moment to divide project goals into manageable tasks. Before starting a task it is not always 100% clear how to accomplish it completely.

Still, take time to list whatever needs to be done and use as much detail as possible. That will make the bigger picture clearer too.

With a tasks list and an overview of the budget and human resources, it is possible to estimate the time needed.

The milestones are an important part of the timeline. It accounts for the work schedules and justifies the resources the project will use.

The problem with software development projects is the risk and uncertainty they bring.

It is thus wise to calculate some buffer time to complete all tasks. Also, the services of a project manager ensure that the project stays on track.

Sprint Meetings

Sprints and sprint meetings are part of modern management techniques. These techniques aim to minimize project time frames.

During sprint meetings managers, developers, and others involved in the project get together. They will discuss what tasks are on the schedule for that week.

Some managers prefer to have sprint meetings every two weeks, or even once a month. Any way works but needs to be in agreement with the project demands and expectations.

A task defines a sprint and each developer or team member has a specific task. The skill and experience of the team member determine the nature of the task.

It is up to the project leader or manager to determine which task to assign to which developer.

Continuous Revision and Modification

Testing, tracking, and bug fixing run parallel with the software development process. This is an ongoing process that aims to remove as many problems as possible and move the project forward.

After completion of the software comes another round of in-depth testing. Usually, a group of beta-testers does this.

User experience tools can show how users interact with the software.

Even after the software’s release, it is good for developers to look back at their work. Software development is a very dynamic and fast-moving field.

So, keeping older versions is very important.

If disputes arise during development, older versions are useful to refer back to. Color coding is a good way of keeping track of different versions.

Risks Associated With Software Development Planning

Writing up a good software development project plan is not simple. When a software project increases in complexity, the planning becomes even more challenging.

The reason software projects fail is often found in poor project planning. The following section gives specific reasons why some software development project plans fail.

Unclear Goals

Success is only measurable when there are clear goals. In other words, it is not possible to achieve success if success is only a vague idea.

Poorly defined goals can ruin an entire project.

A project may start out with a certain focus but ends up in a very different place. There is a product, but it does not meet the aim of the project.

Those kinds of projects are impossible to keep on track because they have no clear goal.

So at the start of a project, during the planning phase, take time to understand the problem at hand. Consider how to measure success.

Plans Address the Wrong Needs

Software development projects are very dynamic and are subject to constant change.

In the beginning that is because project specifics are not developed in full detail. But also during the process changes occur.

Teams and stakeholders change their opinions over time. A software development plan must be flexible and written with the latest needs in mind.

Inadequate Documentation

Agility is good, but disciplined documentation is just as important. Starting with the planning phase, write down agreements, timelines, aspects, and project milestones.

Include Acceptance Criteria and User Stories. These help developers to grasp what the problem is and what kind of work it involves.

That will result in a product tailored to the needs of the client.

Communication Gaps

As in all projects, communication is of vital importance. User research and direct communication are two tools that can help with this process.

They help to define the user audience and adjust the product to their needs. Omitting them, as well as user validation, could result in an irrelevant product.

Don’t forget any external teams involved with the project. They too will appreciate and benefit from close communication.

No Leadership or Accountability

Some companies leave the entire software development process to the IT department. Managers and other executives push away all responsibility in some cases.

This puts the software development plan into the hands of people whose strengths may lay in different areas. It results in a lack of direction.

This will likely lead to the failure of any software development process. Afterward, no one wants to take responsibility for them.

Scope Creep

If goals are not defined and documented, this may have very large negative effects later on.

Individual sprint goals may be hard to achieve. The result is a delay in feedback and meeting deadlines.

Building agility into a software development plan makes the project easier to manage. There will always be changes in the project and agility helps to deal with these adjustments.

There is an easy way to include flexibility in any software development plan. Break down a large complex project into small achievable milestones.

Lack of User Testing and Feedback

Most software is for human use. It is important to keep that fact in mind.

If most humans find it difficult or unpleasant to work with, it is likely that in the end, no one will use it. That would be a waste of all the invested time and money.

Ending thoughts on how to create a software development plan for your dev team

The planning of a software development project is as important as the execution of it. It lays the foundation for success.

It reemphasizes the software project’s methodologies, standards, and methods of the development team.

It serves as a guide to keeping the project on track with budget, resources, and timeframes. That, in turn, helps to meet the objectives and keep communication clear and effective.

Yes, it takes time to write a software development project plan but the investment is worth it. A well-written software development plan can serve as a template for future projects.

If you enjoyed reading this article on creating a software development plan, you should check out this one about enterprise mobile app ideas.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like risk assessment matrix, business pivot examples, in-house development vs outsourcing, financial software development companies, why is refactoring your code important, startup consultants, types of investors, share options, IT outsourcing failures, software development principles, and software development outsourcing trends.

The post How to Create a Software Development Plan for Your Dev Team appeared first on TMS.

If a company doesn’t have a large budget, it is hard to afford qualified professionals to start and boost the project.

To manage their IT requirements, they need to find the right professionals and hire them. Most of them are needed on a long-term basis to meet the project’s goals. This is one of the main reasons why companies turn to offshore software development.

By hiring an offshore team, a software development company can achieve the desired results faster and cost-effectively. Not to mention, they can access more resources. Maybe the right professionals for the company’s success are not in its home country. But it may be possible to find them through offshore outsourcing.

Startups can find partners, employees, tools, and many resources overseas. They have the opportunity to work with offshore developers, web designers, app builders, and a wide variety of talent.

Also, combining the offshore team with in-house collaborators can bring many benefits. This helps businesses increase reliability, productivity, and efficiency.

This article presents a guide on how to approach offshore software development. We analyze important aspects that outsourcing companies must consider. This includes choosing an offshore team, coordinating the workflow between the in-house and overseas teams, and the advantages of software outsourcing.

Offshore software development: the definition

We can define offshore software development simply. If a company uses an offshore development team to build software that will be used in its country, they are using this approach.

This takes place when the outsourcing company is in a different time zone than the core business. An example of this would be an American company outsourcing tasks to an Eastern European team.

But outsourcing can be done in different ways. Companies can delegate tasks to entire teams, companies, or freelancers. They can delegate complete projects or specific tasks.

Types of software outsourcing

• Delegate tasks to an offshore team of experts.
• Delegate tasks to a freelancer or agency.
• Delegate a complete project or specific tasks.

The tasks performed by an offshore team can be diverse. A team of professionals can handle a variety of offshore software development services. This includes app building, designing a user’s interface, or creating a dashboard.

In some cases, the project leader has only an idea. Then, the offshore development team is in charge of designing the project, planning the workflow, and bringing this idea to life.

How do offshore teams work?

The actual TMS team that you could work with

As stated above, teams can have various tasks and responsibilities. These will depend on the overall strategy of the product owner.

Project leaders who want to be deeply involved in the creation process can hire a freelancer or agency. Thus, they can design their plans and hire people that will best implement them. The product owner must understand that this requires more involvement in the work process. They must develop the strategy, set out instructions, and supervise the workflow.

Project managers who don’t want this type of involvement can choose a different option. A core company can hire an offshore software development company rather than a freelancer. The company will handle all the stages of the process. Usually, they have a team in place that can do the necessary tasks.

Creating software requires a combination of talents. App creation needs at least a good designer, a software developer, and a QA engineer. It is hard to find one single freelancer with all these skills.

Also, it is important to establish the deliverables, i.e., what the offshore team is expected to do. Most software development services offer fully customizable options.

The outsourcing company will stipulate the exact deliverables and time frames. Yet, we can divide the more common tasks into three categories.

Offshore software development categories

Delivery team. This is a team of dedicated professionals that work on specific tasks. They work autonomously in parallel with in-house professionals.

Staff augmentation. This is a group of people hired to work with the company’s IT department. They work as an “extended team.”

Project outsourcing. This is when a company hires a team to create a project from scratch. This team is in charge of all the processes and tasks needed to reach the desired goals.

Why Offshore Software Development Actually Works

Outsourcing tasks (or whole projects) to an offshore team can be beneficial. Companies can reduce costs, optimize resources, access more tools, and find great talent. This section lists the benefits of offshore software development.

Nine benefits of offshore software development

1. Reduce costs and optimize earnings

Thanks to offshore outsourcing, companies can develop their projects at lower costs. Hiring full-time employees in one’s country is not always profitable.

Moreover, hiring workers in the long term might be expensive. In most cases, employers must comply with job regulations and pay for vacations, leaves, social security taxes, and retirement funds.

By hiring professionals overseas, companies can avoid these costs without compromising quality. Eastern European developers are known to be highly skilled. In most cases, they are equal or better than American developers.

Also, the cost of living in this region is usually lower. This creates a win-win situation where the company reduces costs, and the offshore team receives an adequate income.

Companies can reduce costs and get quality work by outsourcing to Latin America, Eastern Europe, or India. The hourly rates for the best professionals in these areas are usually $35-$50 per hour.

2. Access the most talented teams

Outsourcing software development tasks brings many benefits. Besides reducing costs, companies can get the best professionals in a particular field.

There are different projects and objectives. Yet, a truly innovative project needs a top offshore software development team. To develop a profitable IT project, the owner must hire talented and creative people. This talent can be found offshore.

There may be no one in the owner’s country with the required skills to carry out a project. And, if there is, this person’s fees will probably be quite high.

Offshore software development not only helps a company find talent but also reduces costs.

3. Improved focus on business and customer base

By outsourcing a project to the right people, a company owner can focus on other important matters. Project owners can concentrate on other areas of the business.

It doesn’t matter how good an app is if no one buys it. Without proper advertising, even the best projects can fail.

Knowing that their project is in good hands, owners can grow their brands, develop a marketing strategy, create the right niche, and find the best advertising software. Thus, when the product is ready, there will be a strategy in place to optimize revenue.

4. Industry expertise

A glimpse of what the TMS team has accomplished in the past years

Project owners should ask themselves: What makes a professional truly great? How to find the top offshore software development professionals? The answer is “expertise.” This is true for all areas, but especially IT-related projects.

The IT and web development industry is a young one. It has been developing during the past three decades. Thus, the best professionals are the ones who have been working in the field during these years. This is because their careers have developed hand in hand with the industry.

Project owners must remember that there is nothing like good know-how to develop a project effectively. By outsourcing overseas, they can find the best professionals in the IT field.

5. Well-designed strategy

Every successful project needs a well-designed strategy. This is especially so when hiring offshore developers.

Organizing a workflow between different people from various regions, cultures, and time zones can be challenging. This is why coordination is key.

Project owners should clearly establish deliverables, deadlines, and expectations. Also, they should make sure that every team member is given realistic goals. Each member is a thread in the project’s fabric. The strength, durability, and usefulness of this fabric will depend on each thread.

The success of the project depends largely on the long- and short-term goals. A project owner should create the right strategies and know when to implement them.

This ensures clarity in the work process. Hence, it will be easier for the project’s managers to supervise the operations and optimize results.

6. Workload optimization

Software development is a tricky process. In many cases, it’s hard to predict the exact amount of work a project will require.

By hiring offshore professionals, project managers can scale up and down according to current needs. If a stage of the process should require a heavier workload, then the manager can hire more developers. They would work only at that stage and for those specific tasks.

This helps optimize costs and time. There is no risk of overpaying, and managers spend less time recruiting people.

In this regard, hiring a dedicated team is the best option. They can balance the workload themselves according to the project’s needs at the time. Also, they can recruit people if necessary.

7. No employee training

Training people takes time and resources. In today’s competitive market, most project managers don’t have the time to conduct training. Luckily, offshore software development companies provide a solution.

These companies can afford to train staff because development is their main service. They make their living by providing services to other companies overseas.

It makes sense for them to train employees that will work with them in the long term. This training can also be useful for future projects. Sometimes, they even provide their employees with paid training sessions.

Offshore outsourcing is an excellent strategy to handle new projects. With this approach, companies don’t have to spend resources retraining their current staff. The extra tasks can be outsourced to offshore developers.

8. Faster Time-To-Market

By working with an offshore partner, the development process is faster. This helps companies to release their products on time. This is especially helpful on time-sensitive projects.

An offshore development partner helps the process run smoother. They can make sure that the best professionals are working on the project around the clock.

A project owner can rest assured that he will get a quality product right on time for market release. This approach also helps boost projects by achieving goals faster.

9. Ongoing support

In the IT industry, a project doesn’t end when the app is ready for the market. All software requires maintenance, customer support, and troubleshooting. The amount and complexity will depend on the software’s characteristics.

Offshore teams can provide software development services while the app is up and running. Good ongoing management is key to remain competitive in today’s market. Hence, project managers should consider this when choosing their offshore team.

The perfect development partner is the one that can complete the project on time and provide reliable maintenance.

Important factors to consider when hiring an offshore software development company

When working with an offshore development team, it is important to consider several factors. This section includes a guide to reach goals faster and more effectively.

Defining goals

Establishing clear objectives is key for the success of offshore software development. Companies must set goals in the short and long term and time frames for accomplishment. This helps create a realistic view of the project and design a plan.

Deciding the features and targeting an audience

Before starting a project, it is necessary to decide its characteristics. This will depend entirely on the targeted audience.

Project owners must understand who their potential clients are and what they are looking for. Companies must research and analyze the market by talking to users of similar products.

It’s also important to study your competitors. A business owner should understand what competitors do and what technology they use. It is vital to know their weaknesses and strengths. Thus, software development companies can design competitive products.

By analyzing traffic sources, users’ devices, and other analytics parameters, project owners can make informed decisions.

Setting the project’s priorities

The first step for offshore software outsourcing is to establish goals, terms, and priorities. A project manager must outline a work plan for their teams.

Later on, the staff can make their own decisions, but they must understand what’s expected of them. This will give the manager a further reason to trust the team and the freedom to address other responsibilities.

Avoiding budget pitfalls

It goes without saying that the budget needs to be part of the plan. From the very beginning, the manager must estimate the costs of the entire project. It is also vital to assess the cost/benefit ratio to understand profitability.

When this is covered, work can start. Yet managers should be prepared for unexpected expenses along the process. These are quite common in software development projects.

Setting quality standards

Setting the right code and architecture standard is important to creating high-quality software.  Managers should perform regular control checks. This will help supervise the project and ensure the creation of premium software. It helps to document standards and reports for an optimized workflow.

Protecting the project’s information

The software must comply with existing regulations. If the company owns the software, it will be regulated by the country of registry’s law. Also, earnings may be taxed.

This should also be considered for headquarters and branches. The product may be subject to tax in the country of incorporation and where the services are provided. This also depends on the UBOs and their country of residence.

Some jurisdictions require a license for certain types of businesses. This includes online payment providers, online gambling, and others.

Managers should consider international privacy laws. These must be considered when creating the project plan and marketing strategy.

When hiring offshore staff, it’s important to ensure confidentiality. The staff should not disclose private information as this may harm the project in the short and long term.

They should understand intellectual property rights and confidentiality terms. Many companies ask contractors to sign a DNA or non-compete agreement before hiring personnel.

Studying the legislation

When two or more countries are involved in a project, it’s important to consider legislation.

Companies should find out the government restrictions or conditions for developing software in a particular region. Having to deal with such issues after the project has started is extremely unpleasant.

Supervising the process

Managers should conduct regular supervision to ensure the process runs smoothly. It is important to have regular meetings and reports.

There are many apps for remote teamwork. These apps help organize the workflow, set deadlines, track performance, and assess objectives. The staff members can provide their reports and proof of accomplishment. This avoids time-consuming events like follow-up meetings or correspondence.

With this approach, managers can estimate the overall progress and take a new course of action if necessary. Project owners can set and reschedule milestones to optimize results.

While remote work software is effective, managers should meet with their staff occasionally. Some issues can only be addressed in a two-way conversation.

How to choose an offshore team

Choosing the best offshore software development company is no easy task. There are many teams of talented professionals in different areas of the world. They offer comprehensive and top-class development services.

One of the ways to find the best software developers is a good old trick: word-of-mouth. Yet, not all product owners have access to this information. Especially if they are taking their first step, they may not have a good reference to start with.

But there are many other factors to consider. Those factors can guide a person into choosing the most qualified team. This section lists the main steps to take before making this decision.

Comparing portfolios

The time you take to research the software development market is not wasted.

This decision will probably affect the outcome of a project. Hence, product owners must search, contact, and compare different options. Checking a team’s previous projects and their success rate is a good strategy.

Checking references

When you have found a team that looks reliable and whose portfolio you like, it’s time for the next step: checking references.

At this stage, project owners should deeply research the team’s work. Case studies, reviews, testimonials, and blog posts provide a good glimpse into the team’s performance.

It might be a good idea to contact companies that have worked with this team before. This can paint a picture of how they perform, handle problems, and stick to deadlines.

Checking standardized security protocols

Unfortunately, as technology advances, so do fraudsters. Scammers can also use every new tool designed for developing the virtual environment.

In this context, safety becomes a top priority. The chosen team must implement top-notch security measures, so the project’s information is safe. This includes intellectual property, logos, images, codes, corporate and personal data, and account and payment information.

Choosing the widest range of services

While someone’s objectives may be clear now, they can change in the future. This is especially true for long-term and IT-related projects.

If people want to launch a lengthy project, then they should be prepared. In this case, it’s a good idea to hire a team with a variety of services. This can help avoid issues and solve problems in the future. Also, it provides the project a holistic approach and flexibility.

When is the right time to hire an offshore development company?

Hiring an offshore team is highly beneficial, but it involves great setup efforts. In some cases, this is a cost-efficient option. Yet, this is not always the case.

How to know if a project needs offshore staff? This section lists a few situations when an offshore development company can be useful.

Lack of IT talent in the home country

Highly talented software developers are scarce. If a company doesn’t have top IT talent in-house and can’t find it in its country, then it’s time to go offshore. Serbia, maybe?

Mistakes that cost too much

When used to perform routine tasks, staff members can make mistakes. Companies and their employees tend to neglect some important details. Yet, a minor error can bring enormous consequences to the IT sector.

If this is the case, it might be a good idea to invest in an offshore team specialized in IT and tech solutions.

Cover the needs for special positions

Some projects require highly specialized skills. Also, some of these tasks require temporary positions, which top professionals are not always willing to take. This is a good time to look for offshore talent.

Reduce costs

Even if a country does have top IT talent, it’s usually very expensive, like it’s the case in the US or Western Europe. Hence, outsourcing these tasks to offshore teams can help reduce costs. There are areas with a low cost of living where top talent is affordable.

Also, hiring in-house staff is costly. It requires infrastructure and other expenses like sick and maternity leave, social security contributions, etc. In these cases, it might be a good idea to delegate tasks to offshore agencies or freelancers.

Handling complex projects

Complex projects require a great deal of expertise and know-how. Product owners should not hesitate to hire offshore talent if it helps tackle such a project.

Hiring flexibility

There is no point in hiring full-time employees for short-term projects. When the project is over, the person will have nothing to do. It is more cost-effective to outsource these tasks to a team offshore. This helps control expenses and optimize returns.

Ending thoughts on offshore software development

We can conclude that offshore software development is a profitable approach. Although not necessary in every case, it helps many projects.

By outsourcing software development tasks to an offshore team, a company can see many benefits. They can find high-quality work at lower rates, access top talent, and find the exact skills needed for a project.

With good organization, clear goals, security measures, and attention to regulations, an offshore team of developers can boost a project and lead it to great success.

If you enjoyed reading this article on offshore software development, you should check out this one about software development outsourcing trends.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like lean software development principles, how to hire a web development team, software development budget, business pivot examples, financial projections for startups, financial software development companies, IT outsourcing failures, and risk management processes.

The post Why Offshore Software Development Actually Works appeared first on TMS.

It goes without saying that a business without a dedicated app will not be able to grow in a competitive market. Mobile apps are necessary for all companies, from start-ups to huge enterprises.

They help to attract and maintain customers using mobile devices. A mobile application can add value to a business and help it grow.

There are many different ideas for an app to look at. There are internal apps as well as apps for customers.

The final choice will depend on the company’s specific needs.

Continue reading to discover 24 great enterprise mobile app ideas you can use to benefit your company.

Those who already have an app can use the examples to inspire improvements or even to create a new app.

AI (Artificial Intelligence) Apps

More and more apps use artificial intelligence. The examples of existing apps based on AI will help you come up with your own idea:

• A mobile app for recruiters. It integrates with calendars, auto-accepts confirmations, receives reservations, proposes dates and times for meetings, fills in schedules, and notifies attendees about any changes.
• A mobile app for managing business expenses. It helps manage expenses by scanning, uploading, and tracking receipts using AI.
• Software as a service (SaaS) app. Most SaaS apps use machine learning from Amazon, Google, and Microsoft.

There has never been a better time to invest in developing an AI-driven app.

Loyalty Apps

The second of these enterprise mobile app ideas is represented by a loyalty app. A dedicated app can increase user engagement and customer loyalty levels. If executed well, a mobile app allows customers to shop and take part in a loyalty/reward program at the same time.

Uses of loyalty apps include browsing products, collecting points, keeping loyalty cards, and paying with credit/debit cards.

Businesses can utilize loyalty apps to communicate and engage with customers. They can also collect relevant data at the same time.

Business Management Apps

Many aspects of business management are easier using a mobile app. These include collecting, storing, and organizing data and streamlining internal processes.

Internal management solutions allow employees to access information quickly and use it effectively. ERP systems, advanced analytical solutions, and CRM software help manage and analyze data.

Being able to do that via a mobile app increases speed and effectiveness. For example, being able to access the CRM on a mobile device increases the productivity of salespeople working in the field.

There are many CRM and other management solutions out there. So it’s not always necessary to create an app specifically for your business.

It may, however, be very useful, especially for large enterprises. Big companies oftentimes need more than a generic management tool.

They often require more complex, dedicated solutions. With that in mind, one may decide to develop an app that meets specific needs.

Blockchain-Based Apps

Contrary to common belief, Blockchain is not limited to cryptocurrencies and finances. It is a system of recording information that makes it difficult to impossible to change, hack, or cheat the system.

In other words, it’s all about secure data storage.

Blockchain is therefore perfect for creating finance-related mobile apps. Or for developing apps used to record and share critical digital information.

A Blockchain-powered app allows both parties to keep track of every file transaction securely. A Blockchain-based mobile app is arguably the best idea for an app in 2021.

AR (Augmented Reality) Apps for eCommerce

A recent survey in the United States revealed that 82% of Internet users in the USA will shop online soon. This can be a great incentive to develop an eCommerce app that uses AR technology.

Augmented Reality is an interactive experience of a real-world environment. It enhances objects that reside in the real world by computer-generated perceptual information.

In other words, it combines real-world information with virtual objects in real-time.

One of the best examples of an AR-powered app is “Pokemon Go.” Of course, it’s possible to develop something other than a mobile game.

The idea here is to create an eCommerce app that uses AR technology. This allows users to try products (such as decoration items, clothes, jewelry, makeup) in a virtual way.

IoT-Based (Internet of Things) Apps

The Internet of Things industry continues to grow.

IoT is the network of physical objects embedded with sensors, software, and other technologies. They connect and exchange data with other devices and systems over the internet.

This idea is often used to create products such as:

• smart home security systems and cameras
• multiroom music players
• smart lighting fixtures
• smart thermostats
• healthcare monitoring systems
• automatic smart parking
• smart roads
• wireless sensor systems
• water quality monitoring solutions, and much more.

The number of ideas for an IoT-based app is infinite.

Team Management & Internal Communication Apps

Simplified, more efficient team management and internal communication are possible via an app. A well-designed enterprise mobile app can gather and give access to performance data and other insights in real-time.

It can also increase employee engagement. Here are a few examples of possible uses within a company:

• Assessing and improving employee satisfaction
• Assisting employees with applying for internal job opportunities
• Booking a conference room
• Involving employees in the decision-making process
• Keeping track of sick leave and vacation days
• Measuring employees’ performance
• Organizing meetings and events
• Reporting bugs and IT-related issues
• Sharing company news

Documentation Apps

Switching from one document to another and back can be irritating and overwhelming.  It may be a great idea to develop an enterprise mobile app for managing a user’s or company’s documentation needs.

An example of an app that does that is Coda. Check it out to find some inspiration!

P2P (Peer-to-Peer) Self-Storage Apps

Extra space is always sought after. It is not easy to find appropriate storage space, though.

A peer-to-peer self-storage app allows people with storage space to connect with those who need to store their things. Creating an effective self-storage app can benefit both users and your company.

AI-Enabled Chatbots

Growing competition and multiple options to choose from make customers less patient. People visiting your website or using your dedicated app want instant replies to their inquiries.

AI-based Chatbots provide instant solutions to customers’ queries, thus improving customer relations.

Adding an AI-based live chat to a mobile app removes the need for human interactions. It also lessens the fatigue of a human dealing with multiple queries at the same time.

Startup Management App

Launching a business is never smooth sailing. It means analyzing the market, identifying main competitors, and determining the budget.

It’s also necessary to find the right marketing platform. Too, there is the challenge of looking for and hiring suitable professionals while caring for other aspects of the new business.

A startup management app can be of great assistance. It can help to build a team of experts and determine the cost of the investment.

It can also provide a database of investors who have a genuine interest in the project.

Free Samples and Reviews App

Many businesses offer free trials or product samples to get customer feedback.

Imagine an app that brings them all into one place. Users could order free samples and then leave their honest reviews.

This app would be a great solution for businesses producing food, cosmetics, and other consumer products. It would allow them to collect honest feedback about new launches.

They could test and compare alternatives and get word-of-mouth marketing if the users enjoy the sample.

Truck Management Apps

Managing a truck fleet is a challenge in the logistics industry.

It involves checking truck availability, monitoring and ensuring their departure. Also the running status, arrival, and management of consignments.

An enterprise mobile app can streamline these tasks and save lots of time and energy. Even a basic app can create a list of all the trucks, together with their real-time status, available in one place.

MVP (Minimum Viable Product) App

MVP is a great solution for people starting a business or bringing a new product to the market. Especially those with a limited budget or very little time.

One can create an MVP app with minimum functionality to test-run it before launching the final product. Businesses can receive and analyze early feedback about user experience and key features.

Investment Planner Apps

The COVID-19 pandemic has had devastating effects on the global economy. Many businesses are looking for the best investment plan to help them survive.

This is a good time to develop an app that provides the information, guidance, and resources needed to make a good investment.

Investors could create profiles and upload their basic information and areas of interest. They could set limits and stipulate the duration of potential investments.

The app would then evaluate all the information and provide the best investment plans.

AI-Enabled Recruiter Apps

Another idea for an AI-based app is a recruiter app that would assist companies with:

• searching through different job sites for resumes that match set criteria
• verifying if the candidates meet the requirements
• conducting initial rounds of job interviews

It would be especially popular with small businesses and startups.

AI-Enabled Text Extraction Apps

Companies depend on data and data patterns to observe, predict, and influence customers’ behavior.

Use Natural Language Processing (NLP) and machine learning to develop a mobile app. This app would extract the desired data quickly and automatically.

Predefined algorithms then segregate, clean, and pre-process extracted data according to set parameters. Developing a mobile application that can do all of that pretty much guarantees success.

MES (Manufacturing Execution System) Apps

An MES app can help ensure that the factory floor data is accurate, complete, and usable. It can also provide control and synchronization across the plant.

This helps to reach and maintain high efficiency and responsiveness to customer demand. It allows a startup to have a head start in today’s fast-paced manufacturing industry.

WMS (Warehouse Management System) Apps

A warehouse management system helps support day-to-day business activities. This includes product putaway, picking and packaging assistance, and inventory replenishment.

A mobile WMS app will make running a warehouse easy, efficient, and productive. It’s quite a new app idea so the potential for success is immense.

Business Idea-Sharing Apps

This would be a great help to people looking for ideas and guidance regarding startups. Users could brainstorm and share ideas, suggest the best investment plans, and provide tips and advice.

Develop this kind of app by utilizing machine learning and data science technology. These can analyze real-life market trends and make precise forecasts.

This app would assist users to identify business ideas that match their budgets and provide other useful suggestions. It may also be the bridge that helps users get startup ideas across to developers and investors.

Logistics Apps

Digital services are becoming an integral part of the ever-growing logistics industry.

A mobile app can assist with three main aspects of a logistics service. These are good communication, ease of transportation, and assurance of delivery.

Logistics mobile app ideas include:

• tracking apps for dealing with consignments
• management apps for assigning parcel services to drivers
• booking apps for booking vehicles

Mental Health Apps for Employees

Every high-quality company takes care of its employees’ mental health. A mobile app can help employees handle stress at the workplace.

It can enable them to track, monitor, and analyze their mood changes and triggers. This in turn helps them to manage their emotions.

The app can also provide a list of therapists, psychologists, and psychiatrists who offer tips and assistance with stress management and healthy living.

The app would also ensure that each employee’s privacy is maintained. All personal information and reports remain between them and their mental health experts.

The Bug Detection App

The last of these enterprise mobile app ideas is a bug detection app.

This is the digital age and yet each app still experiences bugs. Many app owners would rather use a bug detection app than pay an IT engineer every time there is a problem.

This is a fresh, undeveloped idea for an enterprise mobile application.

The app should be straightforward to access and use. The idea is that the user takes a screenshot of the bug and uploads it into the mobile app.

The app then identifies the bug, searches for the solution, and provides a list of best-matching results.

Offline & Online Activity Merging Apps

For your business to be successful, it’s best to combine both the online and offline channels. This is crucial for companies that sell their products via brick-and-mortar and e-commerce.

Keeping track of both offline and online purchases is very important. A mobile app can help to merge and keep track of all customer activities in one place.

Customers could use the app to navigate through the store, confirm product availability, and use the “click & collect” feature. Having an omnichannel shopping experience would make the app very attractive and successful.

Ending thoughts on these enterprise mobile app ideas

Simple ideas often turn out to be the most effective. Having a great mobile app idea is vital before starting an app development project.

Some apps are better suited for internal or B2B use, while others are perfect for B2C use. Enterprise mobile app development does not have to be scary or overwhelming.

Remember that a great app idea is not only innovative but also provides a solution to a specific problem. It fills a specific need in the market.

If you enjoyed reading this article on enterprise mobile app ideas, you should check out this one about business pivot examples.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like financial software development companies, startup consultants, types of investors, share options, IT outsourcing failures, software development principles, and software development outsourcing trends.

The post Great Enterprise Mobile App Ideas You Could Try appeared first on TMS.

Traditional methods took a broad approach. Companies would advertise their best products or services. Then they would hope. Maybe it reached their target audience, maybe it wouldn’t.

Machine learning has changed all that and there’s no going back. Internet users now expect to see relevant content tailored specifically to them.

Personalization is the new way to market to potential customers. This process relies on data scientists and artificial intelligence.

The algorithm collects customer behavior data. Then it uses those data sets to offer a customized experience. The learning algorithm then creates messages, promotions, and advertisements that are users based.

This means improved conversion rates and an improved user experience.

These marketing algorithms are used in most companies’ advertising efforts. Still, there are many who are unfamiliar with the details. What exactly is an algorithm? What do they do? How are they utilized in today’s marketing efforts?

This article is here to make you an expert on personalization algorithms.

It’s All About Algorithms

Machine learning personalization is based on various factors. Analytics, filters, and algorithms all come together to understand users.

Their behavior, preferences, methods, and more are compiled into data points. An algorithm takes those data points, or other kinds of input, and uses them to create an output.

This is similar to the way  numbers in a math formula are inputted into a calculator to produce the answer.

Algorithms are what power artificial intelligence (AI) for machine learning.

Similar to humans, an AI can be exposed repeatedly to large amounts of data and taught. Eventually, it can come to understand what the data means. Then make meaningful predictions based on what it’s learned.

An AI’s algorithms enable it to offer relevant content recommendations to customers, often in real-time.

Algorithms are what makes Google so successful. When we search for a topic, an algorithm is used to determine the best possible result. Another algorithm’s analysis will find us a matching service or product. Then we are given the result in a Facebook ad the next time we log in.

When we buy a baking pan on Amazon, we could be sent an email advertising the perfect spatula to go with it. An algorithm examined the habits of thousands of customers. Then it chooses that specific spatula for us.

These are just two simple examples. Algorithms are the key ingredient in the personalization strategy of marketing. So there are many other applications. Algorithms equip marketers from a variety of fields to provide personalized content.

How Algorithms Can Work For You

Algorithms can be used to make your website visitors stay longer. They can make sure your visitors see specific things and encourage them to return. To do that, it needs to gather the right data.

There is a near unlimited amount of data that can be collected. You’ll want to choose and configure algorithms that best align with your website’s needs.

They can determine what content, service, or product to suggest to your site’s visitors. So a good place to begin is with simple recommendation algorithms.

For example, the right algorithm can collect the general trends of your users. What is the most frequently viewed page within your website during what specific times? What sort of purchase history does each user have?

This data will inform what specific kinds of advertisements would be best. It also helps you to know when and where to deploy them.

E-commerce, digital advertising, and media companies rely on personalizing the customer experience. The ability to provide hyper-personalization affects their performance. This hyper-personalization can take the form of:

• Relevant content suggestions
• product recommendations
• Advertisements
• Customized responses

If one user tells you their opinion of an item that means they share something in common with other visitors. An algorithm can make recommendations based on the user group’s behaviors.

If many people in this group bought a particular product, chances are good that other members will too.

These models rely on artificial intelligence. The AI creates a real-time propensity score for each user according to the chance each will follow a pre-set action.

This is called predictive targeting.

The machine learning software examines the data from all visitors to its websites. It then finds similarities. Eventually, the data it gathers allows it to predict the actions of each visitor.

Collecting Visitor Data and Learning

Imagine an AI playing a chess game. It knows the best move because it has studied tens of thousands of individual chess matches.

The same is true for a marketing algorithm. It takes a complicated set of metrics and compares them to similar metrics from the past. Based on that comparison, it gives a recommendation.

Every time a user does anything on your site, you learn new things. Customers leave information about their preferences when they use search engines or social media. Even when they visit stores they leave behind clues.

Their behavior can be understood and predicted from data like:

• Site Navigation Paths
• View Durations
• Search Refinements
• Back-and-Forth Navigations

The more of these you manage to collect, the more accurate your customer predictions will be. This means your company can more easily and accurately access their needs.

When you display content that is personally relevant to each user, you make them feel welcome. This in turn guides them to conversion.

You will thoroughly learn practical data about your clients, such as:

• What stage of the buyer’s journey they’re in
• What methods they use to shop
• What they enjoy doing
• How likely are they to make major financial choices
• What they’re capable of and likely to invest in

Examples of Predictive Content Personalization

Almost every industry is creating projects that use personalization. Since it happens behind the scenes, most customers may not be aware it even exists.

Here are some familiar examples:

Netflix

Netflix has more than 57 million users worldwide. It would be impossible to create a single homepage to fit their collective interest.

Instead, it employs a complex set of algorithms that determine each individual’s preferences. Then it fills their personal homepage with movies and TV shows just right for them.

Thread

Clothing is a very personal expression of style. No one company can be relied on to define every individual’s style, but Thread comes close.

It uses AI to remember what each customer likes. Then it uses that pattern to personally suggest clothing options.

The more data they collect, the closer the suggestions come to being accepted.

Spotify

Gone are the days when we relied on friends for personally curated musical knowledge. Spotify’s model uses an AI that uses a listener’s previous music habits to predict what music they enjoy.

Then it presents those suggestions in an array of playlists. Release Radar, Discovery Weekly, and Spotify Radio are all personalized for each customer.

Amazon

The available stores and products on Amazon are nearly limitless. To account for every possible shopper with one home page would be impossible to achieve.

Instead, it changes the front page to match each individual shopper. What is recommended to you will not be the same as what is recommended to someone else.

But it doesn’t stop at the storefront. They also use the same practice to display promotions to customers who have made previous purchases before.

Data Crunching

The data science behind this method is only possible because of two things:

• The scope of data collected
• The meaning found from the data

You may think broad data like user demographics and location is most important. To really succeed though, the data collected needs more information than that.

Behavioral data is what really gives context. It makes an algorithm precise and effective.

As this technology continues to advance, it is becoming more rooted in marketing practices. The level of automation will develop right along with it.

The many algorithms can record:

• Brand preferences
• Product usage
• Posts and comments on social media
• Websites frequented

They can even use one individual’s data to interpret another individual’s data.

The most advanced AI can even present a higher level of personalization through dynamic content. These programs are not limited to recommendations. They can modify entire web pages or page modules to match each user.

This means that some users can be taken to entirely different landing pages than others.

This customized approach is valuable for the benefits it brings both the customers and the company. It streamlines the experience for each customer and increases the likelihood of sales for the company.

Ending thoughts on personalization algorithms

Customers want to be listened to. They will be attracted to the brands that pay attention.

Personalization is how your business can do just that.

It’s the best way to contextualize messages, promotions, and experiences to match every unique customer.

At this point, you’re well versed in the data science behind personalization algorithms. You’ve learned from the example of some of the best businesses that use it.

The key will be finding the balance between, “We think you might enjoy this” and “We’re always watching”.

Make sure to plan ahead well before taking the leap into any customization initiatives. This guide is a good start, but all our other articles will fully prepare you for all your algorithm needs.

If you enjoyed reading this article on personalization algorithms, you should check out this one about business pivot examples.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like how to hire a web development team, software development budget, financial projections for startups, financial software development companies, IT outsourcing failures, and software development outsourcing trends.

The post Here’s Why Personalization Algorithms Are So Efficient appeared first on TMS.

These have gained popularity among software developers within the agile community. Of course, there are differences between lean manufacturing and lean software development.

For example, lean manufacturing focuses on producing physical goods. But, in lean software development, the value is in the developer’s mind.

Still, applying the principles of lean development to software development has many benefits.

The Origin Of Lean Software Development Principles

The term lean software development comes from a book, written in 2003 by Tom and Mary Poppendieck.

Lean software development principles are a framework of values and best practices. These boost the success of the software development process.

Organizations that employ the agile methodology created the lean development methodology.

The Seven Principles Of Lean Software Development

There are seven lean software development principles. For the greatest benefits, it is best to hire a development team that uses these lean principles.

This article explains each principle and its application in the software development process. 

Lean Development Principle 1: Eliminate Waste

Waste is anything that inhibits the ability to deliver what the customer wants in the best time frame. To eliminate waste, one must be able to recognize it and take necessary action.

To recognize waste ask yourself:

• Is it possible to bypass an activity to increase development speed?
• Is it possible to achieve the end goal without it?

Collaboration is necessary to identify and remove waste from a project. Hold regular meetings and allow team members to share findings and suggestions. 

This amplifies team learning and facilitates the implementation of improvements to the code.

How Waste Impacts Lean Software Development

Here are a few examples of how waste affects software development:

1. Unclear or constantly changing requirements: This results in rework, delays, frustration, a lack of focus, and quality issues.

2. Unnecessary code or functionality: This results in delays in getting the software to the customer and slowed feedback loops.

3. Starting more than can be completed: This overwhelms the team and impedes the workflow. It results in context-switching and handoff delays.

4. Bureaucracy: This slows down development.

5. Slow or ineffective communication: Poor communication among team members results in delays and frustration. Poor communication with stakeholders negatively impacts the reputation of the developer.

6. Incomplete work: This prevents the team from learning from the work and does not benefit the customer.

7. Defects and quality issues: This results in customer dissatisfaction and rework or abandoned work.

8. Task switching: Task switching leads to delays, communication breakdowns, poor quality, and low team morale.

9. Delays in the development process: This slows the delivery time to the customer and slows down feedback loops. 

Lean Development Principle 2: Build Quality In

Building quality into a piece of software is essential to eliminate waste. This prevents the developer from having to rework the software later.

When quality software isn’t produced it affects future tasks of the development team.

They will need to focus on fixing old work while juggling new work. This is also known as task switching, which is a costly distraction.

That is why, in lean development, quality concerns everyone. A high-quality output benefits the collective.

How can teams build quality into an app? Many software development teams have used the following lean development practices:

Pair Programming

This involves using two developers to work together on project requirements. Thus, the customer benefits from the combined skills and experience of both developers.

Test-Driven Development

This is where guidelines and metrics are set for developers before work commences. For example, setting criteria for code before writing it for the software.

Automated Testing

Automated testing handles manual processes that humans would find difficult. Automated testing speeds up tedious processes and administrative tasks. 

Lean Development Principle 3: Create Knowledge

Writing code is a difficult process yet it often helps to create knowledge. Retaining such knowledge is vital to software development companies.

This is so because it increases the delivery speed and success of future projects.

Staff retention is also sensible business practice. It is costly to hire and train new staff in the business domain.

Lean companies must follow development practices that keep knowledge discoveries within the business.

Lean Development Principle 4: Defer Commitment

It is wise to make careful plans. But, one must keep in mind that things do not always go according to plan. 

So, making step-by-step plans using the waterfall development methodology has become obsolete. This approach is inflexible and does not add value to the customer.

Instead of predicting the work years in advance, it is best to defer the commitment. Make small steps, and reflect on the lessons learned.

What does it mean to defer commitment? This means:

• Not planning in excessive detail for months in advance.
• Not committing to an idea or project without grasping the business requirements.
• Scheduling irreversible decisions for the last responsible moment.
• For the most part, making reversible decisions.
• Avoiding decision-making that is difficult to reverse (locking in critical design features and code).
• Constantly collecting and analyzing info on important decisions.

This lean methodology helps development teams create flexible software. It’s possible to adjust this is software without wrecking earlier work.

This project management approach is vital in today’s volatile industry.

Lean Development Principle 5: Deliver Fast

Faster software delivery reduces the possibility of customers changing their minds. This delivers value to the customer and minimizes waste such as work piling up in queues.

Faster delivery means faster feedback. This allows teams to adapt the software where necessary, and fast.

This increases customer satisfaction and decreases the frustration of having too much work.

What are some factors that slow teams down? They include:

1. Thinking and planning too far ahead about future requirements.
2. Non-urgent response to blockers.
3. Over-engineering business requirements and solutions.

What can help teams speed up delivery?

Gone are the days of working long hours and weekends. The lean way of manufacturing and production focuses on optimizing the whole project.

It does this by:

1. Structuring the work so that each member knows what to do.
2. Allowing each member to solve problems and adapt to changes without asking permission.

In today’s competitive industry, speed to market can give you the edge. Lean development supports agile delivery by the following concept:

• ‘Build a simple solution, deliver it to customers, and enhance it incrementally based on customer feedback.’

Lean Development Principle 6: Respect For People

A company that shows respect for its staff is more likely to have a motivated team. A motivated team is quick to adjust the software to reflect changes in the environment.

Motivation is the fuel that keeps a team fired up and ready to deliver. How is this achieved?

Respect People

Develop a management style that fosters engaged thinking and focuses on creating a great product. Here are some tips to help management teams achieve this:

1. Be proactive and respectful when communicating with those you oversee.
2. Provide staff with the needed expertise and support to accomplish their goals.
3. Help staff to nurture their technical ability.
4. Practice responsible planning and control.
5. Provide teams with general plans and reasonable goals.
6. Express trust in the team’s ability to self-organize to meet goals.
7. Discuss work-related issues as a team.
8. Encourage healthy conflict.

It is hard to set up a collaborative atmosphere and keep the balance of control within a project. The key is to allow development teams to make changes, but require them to report and explain their decisions to managers and you – the client.

Lean Development Principle 7: Optimize The Whole

Every business has a value stream. This is the process to design, produce, and deliver products or services to customers.

To deliver value to the client, companies need to optimize their value streams.

Although made up of code, the software is a product of many individuals completing their part of a chain. Software system defects tend to accumulate along this development chain.

This principle focuses on improving all the software development processes to cut system defects. In effect, it is a strengthening of the chain.

Do this by:

• Splitting big tasks into smaller ones
• Standardizing different stages of development

Additionally, cross-functional teams are a good way to optimize the whole. With this development methodology, everyone on the team can handle all parts of the chain.

It also means that there is a variety of perspectives on problems that arise. This makes it harder for defects to permeate the software system.

Ending thoughts on these lean software development principles

Are you looking to hire an app development company? If so, choose one that operates by these software development lean principles.

Development teams that follow these 7 principles tend to:

• Deliver a flexible software product
• Add value to you, the client
• Deliver in an agile and effective way
• Give your software product the ‘speed to market’ edge
• Minimize waste
• Deliver a high quality

Everyone wants to obtain value for their investment. This is especially true of those who seek a customer-oriented, flexible software system.

For this reason, it’s vital to educate oneself before making an investment. Use this article as part of the process, before taking the step of hiring an app development team.

So, when seeking to build an application, be sure to hire a team that operates by these seven lean principles.

If you enjoyed reading this article on lean software development principles, you should check out this one about software development contract templates.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like how to hire a web development team, software development budget, business pivot examples, financial projections for startups, financial software development companies, IT outsourcing failures, and risk management processes.

The post Lean Software Development Principles You Should Know Before Hiring A Team appeared first on TMS.

In order to remain competitive,  companies need to explore their outsourcing options. Software development is one of the fastest-growing types of outsourcing across multiple industries.

Software development outsourcing is a great way to cut costs. Companies can maintain sites without employing IT designers and project managers.

The software outsourcing market will continue to grow in future years.

The Shift in Outsourcing Relations

There are many benefits to software development outsourcing. These include cost reduction, access to a bigger talent pool, and rapid turnaround times.

Good, reliable software development companies are easier to access today than ever before. Many outsource all their software development projects, from entrepreneurial startups to long-term partnerships.

This growing industry has many advantages.

The Demand for Software Outsourcing Is on The Rise

There’s an ever-increasing demand for software outsourcing. Many domestic companies are finding it harder to find talented software developers.

This means that the demand for software outsourcing has increased. Many businesses are choosing to work with specialists from overseas and remote locations.

Outsourcing software development projects can free up company resources. It offers flexibility, mitigates risk and can improve the quality of the project.

The trend of software development outsourcing is due to a lack of professionals and skilled employees. With a shrinking talent pool, businesses must adjust their approach to software development projects.

Companies Seek Specialist Outsourcing Providers

Technology is always evolving and so the demand for specialized software is increasing. Software developers are therefore in increasing demand.

Companies seek developers who can help maximize the cost-benefit ratio of software development.

Small software development companies that specialize in outsourcing and remote work are increasing. They may work on maintenance projects or software and app development.

Often, companies narrow their focus and begin to specialize in niche markets. Although their costs will go up, so will the quality of their final product.

Many startup companies are outsourcing their software development. They want the highest quality at the smallest cost.

With a little effort, it’s possible to find the right software developer. This allows companies to achieve the desired results and gain the maximum benefits.

Growth of Cloud-based Services

Cloud-based technology has become the main technology companies use. Maintenance is easy, it is compliant with security regulations, and it is low-cost.

This results in faster data operations and the ability to mobilize. It’s estimated that the global Quantum Computing Market will be worth 8 billion dollars by 2027.

Many products are available for data storage and data analytics within cloud-based Solutions. Industries are including more AI and ML as cloud-based technology becomes more important.

Shortage of Skillful Software Engineers

There’s an alarming shortage of skilled software engineers. This is partially due to the negative impact of the coronavirus covid-19 pandemic.

But the real issue is a shortage of skilled and talented software engineers. Lack of experienced workers means that outsourcing software development will continue to grow.

Expanding IT Outsourcing Hub in Eastern and Central Europe

In recent years, companies have used fewer Asian-based software engineers. Instead, there’s been an increase in the use of Eastern European vendors and software development firms.

Outsourcing demand is greatly influenced by the need for new software. But since 2020 the need for remote and offshore workers has become more important.

Eastern European countries such as Ukraine, Poland, Serbia, and Belarus are especially appealing. They are home to experienced and talented offshore developers with excellent English skills.

These areas have replaced other outsource locations such as China and India. Eastern and Central Europe offer high-quality services with well-trained teams and reasonable prices.

Vendors Need to be Flexible

The nature of the IT outsourcing industry and its relations are changing. The expectations of clients are also changing.

This means that providers need to be more flexible in many aspects of the job.

Clients will expect vendors to adjust to their project and time frame needs. Providers should be prepared for adjustments and adapt to them quickly and smoothly.

This means that a provider would restructure teams fast and still deliver results in an efficient and agile way.

Clients are looking for an outsourcing team that can relate to the values and goals of their own team. They want an outsourcing provider that can integrate with the in-house team.

Overall, they want the company to be one big team working together well.

Most companies want to keep up with the latest outsourcing trends and innovations. They’ll be expecting the outsourcing team to be able and willing to use the latest technologies.

For a potential client, a good vendor or partner is one who invests in improving the skills of their staff.

Further Development of Artificial Intelligence and IoT

2020 was a data-driven year. Expectations are that 2021 will be AI-driven.

Companies will continue to see the development of artificial intelligence and implementation of these technologies.

AI development cannot be ignored. As a key part of software development AI is expected to continue to grow beyond 2021.

Software development companies that provide tools for process automation and AI will be sought-after. Outsourcing service providers need to be able to automate processes.

The pandemic highlights the need for automation and artificial intelligence. It is evident by the significant increase in online sales.

Online shopping and delivery services are even more popular than before.

IBM, Samsung, and Microsoft continue to invest in AI startups trying to gain control.

High Demand for Blockchain Services

Blockchain services are in higher demand than ever before. They are expected to reach 16 billion dollars by 2023.

Global software development outsourcing trends in blockchain services will continue to grow. This is especially true regarding smart contracts and microtransactions.

Blockchain services can offer innovative money-raising solutions for startup software development companies. Many companies are seeking to work with outsource companies to develop blockchain products.

As a result, the demand for capable, experienced blockchain service developers is increasing. However, there’s currently a shortage of blockchain professionals.

This has led to fierce competition to hire skilled blockchain professionals. 

A Growing Need for Increased Cybersecurity

The need for cybersecurity cannot be overstated. Since the start of the covid-19 pandemic, most tech companies are working remotely.

These companies can quickly become targets for cyber attacks so cybersecurity is vital. So there is a growing need for cybersecurity skills.

It is challenging for domestic companies to find qualified staff to meet this need.

Outsourcing helps companies to fill the gap in their cybersecurity forces. They can access top-level cybersecurity software engineers.

Cybercrime causes a lot of damage and costs to the business sector and individuals.

However, it is more common for governments to be the target of cyberattacks. So governments have become the main cybersecurity investors.

This can make it difficult for private industry to fund and staff their own cybersecurity. This is true regarding large IT companies and small family businesses.

Due to security concerns regarding business data, client data, and compliance standards, businesses may need to hire cybersecurity experts.

Fintech, Healthcare, And Telecom Industries to Be Significantly Digitized

Industries such as Fintech, Healthcare, and Telecommunications continue to transform to Julie. Potential clients search for outsourcing services.

Their needs can be met by Eastern and Central European software development companies. These needs are expected to dominate healthcare institutions, both public and private.

Software development will broaden their horizons of diagnostics and patient care. These trends offer unprecedented growth opportunities for a software development company.

Which Programming Languages Will Be the Most Wanted?

Industry forecasts also predict that 2021 will bring a change to some technologies. Many experts predict an increase in Rust as a software development language.

Rust drew the attention of many tech giants including Microsoft and Intel. Many companies implement Rust technologies and their solutions.

Growth of AR and VR Markets

In the year 2021, the AR market is expected to increase. With smartphones becoming more common, the demand for VR and AR solutions is high.

Expect improvements to the online shopping experience with AR solutions. A great example of an AR experience is Pokemon Go.

This app was popular during the past couple of years with its AR interactive characters. Technologies like these will continue to be a part of online experiences and daily life.

AR and VR could be useful in e-learning, tourism, manufacturing, and many more.

The market for VR and AR is still quite uncertain. Many companies are looking for VR and AR solutions and outsourcing options to increase sales.

By using these interactive elements in apps, games, and websites, companies improve customer experience and increase sales. Some larger companies that are already implementing these technologies are Apple and Mercedes.

Robotic Process Automation

Business process automation has recently become more prominent in daily life. This is because of AI and its conjunction with robotic process automation or RPA.

Some of the advantages of RPA are:

• improved work coordination
• reducing operation costs
• less manual mistakes

In the ever-changing digital environment, business automation should be the number one priority. A few things that will benefit from RPA are:

• logistics management
• better-personalized experience
• payment processing

IT outsourcing companies are investing more time into augmented analytics and business automation.

Bots and virtual assistants can take on the burden of repetitive and menial tasks. This is just the tip of the iceberg!

Both Native Applications and The Development of Progressive Web Apps Are Constantly on Top

Many of the IT outsourcing trends mentioned above have been around a long time.

Progressive Web Apps is a newer IT outsourcing development. Although, its rapid takeover of the app market is astounding.

PWA is a website in nature, so it surpasses native applications in:

• cost of development
• flexibility
• SEO visibility
• cross-platform usage
• no-network performance

Native apps are mainly created for specific mobile platforms, such as Android or iOS. So it’s necessary to write the same app in two or more different programming languages.

For example, in general, iOS uses  Swift and Objective-C languages. Android uses Java and Kotlin.

Developing an application for more than one mobile platform can require more than one outsourcing team. This is due to the need to develop an application for each platform.

This makes native applications the most commonly outsourced development projects. The growing number of smartphone users will increase the demand for native applications. Also impacting this is a native app’s advantage over that of a hybrid or web one.

Native applications are faster, have better support, built-in functions, clearer code structure, are more efficient, and contain a better-adapted user experience.

Regulatory Agility

Tech companies and service providers will need to be more flexible to be able to adapt to new standards and regulations. 2021 is going to be full of new rules and regulations.

It’s important to carefully negotiate contract clauses, along with back-end processes and regulations. It’s also important to keep in mind the costs of implementation and the costs that could be presupposed.

As of 1 January 2021, the UK is no longer part of the EU. This means that it is no longer a part of the EU customs union nor its single market.

Global Outsourcing Trends Forecast

The global economy has changed since the start of the covid-19 pandemic. The shift to work from home has created an irreversible change to the global workforce.

As industries adapt to this trend, outsourcing will continue to grow. Software development is a key industry that will continue to grow in outsourcing.

Outsourcing makes a skilled workforce attainable for many more companies. It enables companies to keep a competitive edge.

Software development is an indispensable part of business, from small start-ups to mega-corporations. One of the best ways to keep ahead of the trends in this arena is by outsourcing software development.

Outsourcing software development will continue to be essential for all types of IT. From web and app design to site maintenance and artificial intelligence.

If you enjoyed reading this article on software development outsourcing trends you should check out this one about financial software development companies.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like business pivot examples, financial projections for startups, startup consultants, startup advice, startup press kit examples, nearshoring, Berlin startups, types of investors, share options, IT outsourcing failures, London startups, gifting shares, best startup books and risk management process.

The post The Most Relevant Software Development Outsourcing Trends appeared first on TMS.

Well, we hope this article will provide a partner for you in the immediate future.

But how did we get to needing outsourcing partners?

Software development is an increasingly competitive market. There are new demands and challenges every day.

A key way to meet those challenges is through IT outsourcing service companies.

These outsourcing companies are far more than a way to cut costs. They provide innovation and new possibilities in an increasingly globalized world.

Eastern European outsourcing companies are an attractive option for any European IT company. The finished product will be at a lower price point than the average Western European rates, but the benefits don’t stop there.

Software development services from East Europe are culturally and geographically close. They are also capable of high-quality custom software development.

These are companies for more than mindless, robotic web development. Eastern European development companies are putting software engineering through a digital transformation.

Choosing the right IT outsourcing services companies for your needs is challenging. There are so many factors involved and questions that need answering.

What are the potential savings for each? What is the business environment?

Are their engineering resources up to the task? Before making a choice, it’s important to find satisfying answers.

This article will answer those questions, saving you valuable time and energy.

Based on exhaustive research these are the top IT outsourcing services companies from Eastern Europe.

Serbia

TMS Outsource

Based In: Serbia

TMS is perfect for projects of any size and our engineers have extensive expertise. This means TMS Outsource is capable of working on a project from beginning to the end.

From UI/UX design to web and mobile development, testing to maintenance. TMS Outsource can get any job done right.

TMS is qualified and experienced in:

• PHP (Symfony, Laravel, CMS like WP and all other PHP-based technologies)
• Java
• js
• React/React Native
• Angular
• Vue
• iOS & Android native
• An impressive list of other technologies.

TMS Outsource Provides:

• Business Analysis
• Strategic Planning
• Custom Web Applications
• Custom Mobile Apps
• Project and Delivery Management Services During Application Development
• Application Support and Enhancement Services After Application Implementation

Want to see some case studies of what we’ve done so far? Check out our portfolio page.

SuperAdmins

Based In: Serbia

This software development company has more than 50 Cloud and DevOps professionals.

SuperAdmin’s main goal is to stay ahead of the curve. They are always adapting, learning, and qualifying in new industry technologies.

SuperAdmins’ expertise includes:

• AWS
• Azure
• Google Cloud Platforms
• eCommerce
• Advertising and Marketing
• Gaming

SuperAdmins provides:

• DevOps
• Cloud Consulting and SI
• Managed Cloud Services

TNation

Based In: Serbia

TNation has extensive experience in nearshoring and outsourcing. This makes it one of the best IT companies for both solutions.

Clients from North America and the EU rely on them to enlist, train, and manage teams of local professionals. These teams act as critical support staff for their client’s own developers.

TNation provides:

• Web Development
• Application Testing
• Custom Software
• System Administration

Vega IT Sourcing

Based In: Serbia

Many companies change as their management comes and goes. Vega IT Sourcing has had the same leadership since its establishment in 2008.

Their vision has provided software development solutions for international markets.

They employ an ever-growing staff of 150 expert developers. The whole team provides the same quality work that made them a success more than 12 years ago.

Vega IT Sourcing provides:

• Enterprise Software Solutions
• CMS Websites
• Mobile Applications
• Maintenance and Support
• Salesforce Augmentation
• Research and Development
• Software Product Development
• Website Development
• Dedicated Development Team
• Embedded Software
• Mobile Apps
• Front-End Development

Belarus

Exposit

Based In: Belarus

This development company’s aim is to reinvent healthcare, retail, and other common workflows. They do this via media streaming, computer vision, visualization services, and software.

Exposit provides:

• Website Design
• Mobile Apps including Android and iOS
• Wearable Apps
• Website Development
• User Experience Services
• Software Development
• Enterprise Development
• Healthcare Software
• Outsourcing Software
• IT Services & Consulting

Scand

Based In: Belarus

This custom software development company has a 20-year history of excellence. Scand has completed over 600 projects for customers the world over.

Throughout its long history, Scand has focused on consistently delivering high-quality product development. It specializes in using .Net, Java, PHP, and C/C++.

Scand provides:

• Web Apps
• Desktop Apps
• Mobile Apps
• Cloud Applications
• Embedded Softwares
• Staff Augmentation
• IT Outsourcing
• UX/UI
• DevOps
• QA

SumatoSoft

Based In: Belarus

This software development company is a master at difficult projects. It doesn’t matter how big or complex they may be.

Their resume includes work with Toyota, Evolv, Nectarin, Dragon Sourcing, Boxforward, and many other top brands.

SumatoSoft services cover project conception all the way to its release and beyond. Their skills range from idea analysis to web design itself.

This results in products that are fully customized to meet their client’s needs.

One of their main design philosophies is absolute transparency and customer collaboration. Above all else, they want their clients involved completely in the job.

SumatoSoft provides:

• Enterprise Web Apps
• API Integration
• Startup Business Web Development
• MVP Startup Programs
• eLearning
• Marketing Automation
• ECommerce
• Real Estate
• Transport and Automation
• Media and Entertainment
• Testing and QA
• Software Deployment
• Support and Maintenance

VironIT

Based In: Belarus

In many industries, VironIT is a common name. It has delivered over 500 successful projects.

Their client base includes over 300 leading companies. Their industry experience includes eHealth, Sports, Banking, Retail, Marketing, Gaming, and more.

No matter the business, VironIT will know what you need. VironIT also specializes in end-to-end software development services.

VironIT provides:

• Mobile applications
• Web-oriented software
• Business software solutions
• Software integration
• Updating, Support, and Maintenance of Developed Applications

XB Software

Based In: Belarus

This outsourcing company specializes in full-cycle software development. For an example of their skill look at their in-house built JavaScript library, Webix.

This library enables them to develop bleeding-edge apps. It is also proof of their substantial abilities in custom web and mobile app development.

XB Software Provides:

• Custom Web Applications
• Fleet Management Software
• Project Management Systems
• Real Estate Software
• Logistics Programs
• Data Visualization Software
• UX/UI Design & Development
• Mobile Applications
• Cloud Software
• QA and Software Testing
• Dedicated Developers Team Hiring
• ERP Systems

Bulgaria

ScaleFocus

Based in: Bulgaria

This outsourcing company has built its business on its mastery of various industries. ScaleFocus has experience with the Telcom, Banking, Finance, and Insurance fields.

But the list continues into the Healthcare, Logistics, Governmental, and Education industries. There are few businesses ScaleFocus isn’t already familiar with.

ScaleFocus provides:

• eCommerce
• Enterprise Systems Integration
• Mobile and Web Engineering
• Cloud Services
• DevOps
• Data Services
• Customer Analytics
• Business and Operational Analytics
• Machine Learning
• Artificial Intelligence
• Much More

Upnetix

Based In: Bulgaria

One of Southeast Europe’s largest IT outsourcing services companies. Upnetix provides the entire spectrum of software development and IT consulting services.

The support staff will handle everything from prototyping to post-project offerings. Their qualified team will help and guide your software every step of the way.

Upnetix provides development for:

• Custom Software
• Mobile
• Native iOS
• Native Android
• Enterprise
• Frontend
• Web Applications

Croatia

Kodius

Based In: Croatia

Kodius is an outsourcing company for web or software development, design, and team augmentation.

Its long list of happy clients is proof that their help to design and build projects is invaluable. No matter the job, they always balance performance with perfection.

Kodius is qualified and experienced in:

• js
• Ruby on Rails
• React
• js
• Elixir

Kodius provides:

• Custom Software
• Web Apps
• UX/UI Design
• Digital Transformation
• 3D Hosting (fully supported using their hardware)
• Cloud Services(AWS, Google Cloud, Heroku)
• Project Rescue
• MVP
• Team augmentation

IN2 Group

Based In: Croatia

This software development services company has a 26-year record of excellence. In 2018 they joined the CSI group to even better service a large array of businesses.

IN2 Group has qualifications from Oracle and Microsoft. It also has the distinction of being a Magento Commerce Solutions Partner.

IN2 Group Provides:

• Software Development
• IT Consulting
• Standard Business Solutions Implementation
• Application Integration
• Technical and System Support
• Business Digitalization
• IoT Solutions

Ingemark

Based In: Croatia

Some of the most renowned companies in the world rely on Ingemark. Companies from Europe, America, and the Middle East use this custom software development company.

Ingemark has a proven record of quality since its establishment in 1990. It has been creating custom software since 2006.

Ingemark’s scope is wide. It includes the entire range from software design to post-launch support and maintenance.

Ingemark provides:

• Software Development
• Cloud Consulting
• Research and Design

Hungary

Pulilab

Based In: Hungary

From their offices in Budapest, Pulilab provides custom-built software. Their programs are specially made to meet the needs of its international customers.

They’re well suited for turning digital media and creative software on its head. Their every effort is to innovate through cutting-edge technology.

Pulilab Provides:

• Custom Software Design and Development
• Digital Product Creation and Conceptualization
• UI/UX Design
• Web and Mobile Applications
• Interactive Video Apps
• Video and Music Streaming Apps
• E-commerce
• Big-data API integrations

Webtown

Based In: Hungary

Look no further for Agile software development. Webtown has provided development services for more than ten years.

They’re skilled at using the Liferay Digital Experience Platform (DXP). No one is better qualified for all things DXP and Agile.

Webtown Provides:

• Portal Development
• Custom Software Development
• Enterprise CMS
• Business Development and Consulting
• System Design and Integration

Poland

Code & Pepper

Based In: Poland

This software development company works with world-renowned businesses. Their goal is to create the highest quality products.

Though skilled with Fintech, they use a variety of tools to deliver their many services.

Code & Pepper Provides:

• FinTech Software
• InsurTech Products
• LawTech Products
• Open banking
• Asset Management Platforms
• UX / UI design
• Cloud Computing
• Digital Transformations
• Web Development
• Mobile App
• Frontend and Backend Development
• API

Gecko Dynamics

Based In: Poland

Gecko Dynamics is a great outsourcing services company. They can provide web, mobile, or raw software engineering.

This software company has a group of developers trained for cost-cutting. But they’re also trained in high-performance mobile technologies.

Gecko Dynamics has qualifications and experience in:

• Java
• .Net
• Angular
• js
• PHP
• HTML

Gecko Dynamics provides:

• SaaS Applications
• Business Process Management Systems
• Refactoring and Recovery of poorly coded projects
• Mobile Applications

Predica

Based In: Poland

This technology service company provides the most efficient solutions to optimize your business. In its more than ten years of business, it has perfected the processes of over 300 client businesses.

Predica is perfect for those needing to find new and improved software solutions.

Predica provides:

• Application Development
• DevOps
• Data Analytics
• Cloud Security
• Management Services
• Cloud Governance
• Modern Data Warehouses
• Knowledge Mining
• Customer Churn
• Cloud Application Architecture Guidance
• Fast App Prototyping
• DevOps Kickstarter
• Cloud Migration Assessment

SoftwareMill

Based In: Poland

This consultation company offers to help with IT systems and big data services. Also, they develop business intelligence and machine learning systems.

Everythings is custom-built for each client.

SoftwareMill has qualifications and experience in:

• Java
• Scala
• Akka
• Lightbend Reactive
• Big Data/ML Frameworks
• Kafka
• Spark
• TensorFlow
• SQL and NoSQL databases
• PostgreSQL
• Cassandra
• Mongo

SoftwareMill provides:

• Big Data and Machine Learning
• Web Development
• Enterprise Solutions
• UI/UX Design

STX Next

Based In: Poland

Clients from all industries use STX Next. Their 170 developers provide an assortment of full-stack and mobile application services.

This makes STX Next one of the premier Python software developers in Europe. Every member of their development staff are well versed in Python, JS, and React Native.

STX Next exceeds the UX/UI, deep analysis, and web graphic design needs of their clients with every project.

STX Next has qualifications and experience in:

• Python
• Django
• Flask
• Twisted
• Angular
• ReactJS
• React Native
• And much more

STX Provides:

• Software Development Outsourcing
• Custom Software Development
  • Python
  • JavaScript
  • Django
  • Flask
  • React
  • Angular JS
  • Golang
• Mobile App Development
  • Cross-Platform
  • Hybrid
  • Progressive
  • React Native
  • Android
  • iOS
• UX/UI Services
• Web Design
• Product Strategy and Research
• Software Testing
• DevOps Services

Romania

IntelligentBee

Based In: Romania

This outsourcing company prides itself on having well-organized, educated, self-motivated support teams. IntelligentBee’s associates are quick to be in sync and ready to help.

The key to their success is the keen attention given to the Service Level Agreement (SLA) and Support Health Score (SHS) for every task.

IntelligentBee is qualified and experienced in:

• NodeJS
• React
• PHP/Symfony
• Golang
• HTML5
• IOS
• Android

IntelligentBee provides:

• Web Development Services
• PHP
• Golang
• JS
• JS
• Mobile Development Services
• IOS
• Android
• SysAdmin and DevOps

Ukraine

Binary Studio

Based In: Ukraine

Established in 2005, Binary Studio has helped more than 60 clients develop top-tier software. Its expert development team is more than 100 strong.

They are all trained in the technologies vital to business, such as Javascript, Java, .NET, and PHP tech.

Binary Studio provides:

• Application Development
• Cloud and DevOps
• Architecture and Database Design
• Internet of Things
• Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
• Legacy Modernization
• Quality Assurance

Cleveroad

Based In: Ukraine

Cleveroad specializes in Artificial Intelligence, Virtual Reality, and the Internet of Things.

It is the ideal web and mobile development company for those creating bleeding-edge technology. This includes startups, business segments, and private clients alike.

Cleveroad Provides:

• Mobile Development
• Web Development
• E-Commerce and CMS
• Wearable Tech Software
• iBeacon Software
• Virtual Reality Services
• 3D Visualization Software
• IT outstaffing
• Consulting and Training

Daxx

Based In: Ukraine

Daxx has an impressive track record as part of Grid Dynamics. It has been providing high-quality software development services for more than 22 years.

Over 300 global clients used Daxx to create software development teams in Ukraine. Dou has also named Daxx as one of the best IT employers in the country.

Microsoft Gold and ISO 27001:2013 certifications prove their commitment to high-quality services.

Daxx provides:

• IT Relocation
• Launch Workshops
• Process Consulting
• Quality Control
• Security Testing

GroupBWT

Based In: Ukraine

Development solutions must be custom-built to the clients’ needs to be successful. GroupBWT specializes in exactly those kinds of customized solutions.

They have an expert team with an 11-year record of well-delivered projects.

They can expand their team to match any project’s size. Or split into small teams for surgeon-like fast development.

GroupBWT has a history of business with startups, large corporations, and government organizations.

GroupBWT specializes in, but is not limited to:

• Healthcare
• E-Commerce/Fintech
• Retail
• Business Automation

GroupBWT provides:

• Custom Web Development
• Mobile and Software Development
• UX/UI Design
• Product Design
• Data Mining and Web Scraping
• BI and Business Automation

Intellias

Based In: Ukraine

An international software development company. Headquartered in Ukraine, with branches in Germany and Poland.

Clients throughout North America and the European Union use their far-reaching services. They ranked on the Global Outsourcing 100 list and are among the top Ukrainian IT companies.

Intellias provides:

• Platform Development
• Big Data and Analytics
• Cloud Services
• DevOps
• Machine Learning and AI
• UI/UX Design
• Internet of Things
• Location-Based Services
• Blockchain
• Cybersecurity
• RPA

N-iX

Based In: Ukraine

This software development services company is a giant. Its 900 full-time experts are an army that will overwhelm any technological challenge.

N-iX has the manpower your business needs to succeed.

N-iX provides:

• Highload Systems
• Microservices
• Cloud
• Embedded Software
• BI and Data Science
• Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
• Blockchain
• Enterprise Virtual Reality
• Enterprise Mobility
• Internet of Things
• DevOps

Perfectial

Based In: Ukraine

This development services company was born to help businesses start, grow, and succeed. Perfectial is an expert with all cutting-edge platforms and frameworks.

Their services are often used in both US and European fields. They employ over 200 team members including project managers and solution architects.

Their array of developers are skilled in .Net, Java, Ruby on Rails, Python, and Node.js. They also put teams of UI/UX designers and Quality Assurers to work for you.

Perfectial provides:

• Cloud and SaaS Applications
• Android and IOS Mobile Applications
• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• R&D Services
• BlockChain Development
• Enterprise Development

IT Outsourcing Services Companies Review

Eastern Europe is a gold mine of qualified outsourcing companies. It’s easy to find the happy median between reliable and affordable on the list above.

Rates are more than competitive, with an ever-growing range of software development services. This trend is sure to continue in Eastern Europe.

There is a push for education in the STEM specialties (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). The talent pool businesses can pull from is expanding every day in number and skill.

Companies like Microsoft, Samsung, Hewlett-Packard, Google, and Cisco are placing their R&D in Eastern Europe. 

You can tap into the same resources for your company. Use the list above to find the best IT outsourcing services companies in East Europe.

If you enjoyed reading this article on IT Outsourcing Services Companies, you should check out this one about IT outsourcing failures.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like IT outsourcing companies in the USA, financial projections for startups, startup consultants, startup advice, startup press kit examples, nearshoring, Berlin startups, types of investors, share options, London startups, gifting shares, best startup books, and risk management process.

The post Top IT outsourcing services companies in Eastern Europe appeared first on TMS.

We’ve got you covered.

Contracts are a necessary part of any business, and equally so in software development.

This type of contract is typically called a software development agreement. The agreement defines what the expectations are for both parties.

It also defines deadlines and performance expectations, including expectations for time and amount of payment. A good contract provides both parties with legal protection.

Putting an agreement in writing also provides a good reference for both parties to reference in the future. The old adage, “Good fences make good neighbors” is also true in the business world. Good contracts make for good business relationships.

When boundaries and expectations have been clearly defined things tend to go smoother. Differences can quickly be resolved and progress is made quickly. When the agreement is verbal, murky, or confusing, small issues can grow into legal headaches.

Key Points of a Standard Contract

A well-rounded software development agreement usually covers some standard information, including:

• Scope of Work
• Payments Terms
• Non-Disclosure
• Intellectual Property Rights

Scope of Work

Scope of work can clarify what the expectations are for the software developer. This means it’s important to define specifics of what will be included in the job and what things won’t be included. Is there a range of hours that will be included in the project? What are the specific features? Are maintenance services included? Are there revisions allowed? If so, how many?

These types of scope of work questions should be addressed in the agreement between the parties.

Confidential Information

Software development may often place confidential information under the control of either party. It’s important that the contract clearly defines how confidential information will be handled. Many software development agreements also stipulate the consequences of failing to keep confidential matters confidential.

Confidential information can cover a wide array of data including:

• intellectual-property
• payment accounts
• fee schedule
• source code
• patents information
• copyrighted material
• party identities
• trade secrets

Payment Terms

Payment terms should be clearly defined in any software development agreement, including amounts, milestones, and dates. Will expenses be reimbursed? If a payment is missed will written notice be given? If so, when? Is payment due upon receipt?

Failure to pay may result in a termination of the agreement. It may also result in legal action. The software development agreement may include an agreement between the parties to make the attorneys’ fees become the responsibility of the breaching party.

Intellectual Property

Software development always involves intellectual property. The software development contract should clearly define who is the owner of intellectual property. Intellectual property may include:

• source code
• graphic art and design
• trade secrets
• copyright
• patent

Software Development Contract Template Example

The following is a software development contract template that you may find helpful in creating your own software development agreement:

NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants set forth herein and intending to be legally bound, the Parties hereto agree as follows:

1. Developer’s duties

The Client hereby engages the Developer and the Developer hereby agrees to be engaged by the Client to develop the Software in accordance with the specifications attached hereto as Exhibit A (the “Specifications”).

The Developer shall complete the development of the Software, the final product shall be delivered to the Client by [Final delivery date] (the “Delivery Date”).

For a period of [Time frame] after delivery of the final product, the Developer shall provide the Client attention to answer any questions or assist solving any problems with regard to the operation of the Software up to [Number of hours] of hours free of charge and billed to the Client at a rate of [Rate] per hour for any assistance thereafter. The Developer agrees to respond to any reasonable request for assistance made by the Client regarding the Software within [Time frame] of the request.

The Client may terminate this Software Development Contract at any time upon a material breach of the terms herein and failure to cure such a breach within [Time frame] of notification of such a breach.

2. Delivery

The Software shall function in accordance with the Specifications on or before the Delivery Date.

If the Software as delivered does not conform with the Specifications, the Client shall within [Time frame] of the Delivery Date notify the Developer in writing of the ways in which it does not conform with the Specifications. The Developer agrees that upon receiving such notice, it shall make reasonable efforts to correct any non-conformity.

3. Acceptance and Rejection

Inspection Period. [Client] will have [Inspection Period] Business Days after [Developer] delivers the [Software] to inspect and test the [Software] to ensure it meets the Acceptance Criteria (the “Inspection Period”).

4. Training and Support Services

Training.

[Developer] shall, at [Developer]’s expense, provide [Client]’s employees with the initial training services necessary and desirable to operate the Software, as further described in the [Attachment], attached to this agreement, at [Developer]’s offices and [on days and times the parties agree to in writing.]

Support

Initial Support. For the [12] month period beginning on the Effective Date, and at [Developer]’s own expense, [Developer] shall provide [Client] with telephone or electronic support during [Developer]’s normal business hours in order to help [Client] locate and correct problems with the Software, and internet-based support system generally available seven days a week, twenty-four hours a day.

5. Compensation

Compensation. In consideration for the Service, the Client shall pay the Company at the rate of [Rate] per hour (the “Hourly Rate”), with a maximum total fee for all work under this Software Development Contract of [Maximum total fee]. Fees billed under the Hourly Rate shall be due and payable upon the Developer providing the Client with an invoice. Invoices will be provided for work completed by the developer once every [Pay period].

6. Intellectual property rights in the software

The Parties acknowledge and agree that the Client will hold all intellectual property rights in the Software including, but not limited to, copyright and trademark rights. The Developer agrees not to claim any such ownership in the Software’s intellectual property at any time prior to or after the completion and delivery of the Software to the Client.

7. Change in specifications

The Client may request that reasonable changes be made to the Specifications and tasks associated with the implementation of the Specifications. If the Client requests such a change, the Developer will use its best efforts to implement the requested change at no additional expense to the Client and without delaying delivery of the Software. In the event that the proposed change will, in the sole discretion of the Developer, require a delay in the delivery of the Software or would result in additional expense to the Client, then the Client and the Developer shall confer and the Client may either withdraw the proposed change or require the Developer to deliver the Software with the proposed change and subject to the delay and/or additional expense. The Client agrees and acknowledges that the judgment as to if there will be any delay or additional expense shall be made solely by the Developer.

8. Confidentiality

The Developer shall not disclose to any third party the business of the Client, details regarding the Software, including, without limitation any information regarding the Software’s code, the Specifications, or the Client’s business (the “Confidential Information”), (ii) make copies of any Confidential Information or any content based on the concepts contained within the Confidential Information for personal use or for distribution unless requested to do so by the Client, or (iii) use Confidential Information other than solely for the benefit of the Client.

9. Developer warranties

The Developer represents and warrants to the Client the following:

Development and delivery of the Software under this Contract are not in violation of any other agreement that the Developer has with another party.

The Software will not violate the intellectual property rights of any other party.

For a period of [Time frame] after the Delivery Date, the Software shall operate according to the Specifications. If the Software malfunctions or in any way does not operate according to the Specifications within that time, then the Developer shall take any reasonably necessary steps to fix the issue and ensure the Software operates according to the Specifications.

10. Limitation of liability

Neither party will be liable to the other party for any indirect, incidental, consequential, special, punitive or exemplary damages arising as a result of or related to performance of the work, regardless of the type of claim and even if that party has been advised of the possibility of such damages, such as, but not limited to, lost profits, loss of revenue or anticipated profits or lost business.

11. Indemnification

Indemnification by [Client] [Developer] [(as an indemnifying party)] shall indemnify [Client] [(as an indemnified party)] against all losses and expenses arising out of any proceeding

• brought by either a third party, and
• arising Out Of A Claim That The [Deliverable] Infringes The Third Party’S Intellectual Property Rights.

12. No modification unless in writing

No modification of this Contract shall be valid unless in writing and agreed upon by both Parties.

13. Dispute Resolution

Arbitration. Any dispute or controversy arising out of this agreement and [subject matter of the agreement] will be settled by arbitration in [State], according to the rules of the American Arbitration Association then in effect, and by [Number of arbitrators] arbitrators[s].

Judgment. Judgment may be entered on the arbitrator’s award in any court having jurisdiction.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the Parties has executed this Software Development Contract, both Parties by its duly authorized officer, as of the day and year set forth below.

[Developer.Company]

Signature

MM/DD/YYYY

[Developer.FirstName] [Developer.LastName]

[Client.Company]

Signature

MM/DD/YYYY

[Client.FirstName] [Client.LastName]

In conclusion, a well-executed software development agreement will provide legal protection for both parties.

This will make the expectations for both parties clear. Having all expectations defined will result in better professional relationships and long-term business.

Do you want alternative contract templates as well?

Here are several software development contract template examples you can use:

• Contract Template by PandaDoc
• Contract Template by ApproveMe
• Contract Template by Priori
• Contract Template by HelloBonsai
• Software Development Agreement by Contract Standards

If you enjoyed reading this article on software development contract templates, you should check out this one about financial software development companies.

We also wrote about a few related subjects like financial projections for startups, startup consultants, startup advice, startup press kit examples, nearshoring, Berlin startups, types of investors, share options, London startups, gifting shares, best startup books, and risk management process.

The post Get a good software development contract template from here appeared first on TMS.