Many businesses have opted to outsource their technical jobs to save them time on certain projects. Software development service companies have never been more desirable than in today’s environment, when more and more people are forced to work from home.
Saigon Technology has been in business for almost a decade, during which time we have received a wide range of inquiries regarding software development services from clients in all parts of the world. This diversity can include projects involving the development of mobile apps that help users get more convenient and seamless whenever and wherever they choose; web apps that improve accuracy and efficiency in the enterprise’s business operations; and innovative and cutting-edge cloud migration, software-as-a-service, and artificial intelligence integration services.
Let’s dive into the material below, gleaned from the seasoned viewpoint of Saigon Technology, to learn the top 7 considerations for making the most of software development services.
1. The Definition of Software Development
Before getting into the details of the subject matter, it is imperative to initially consider the concise elucidation. The realm of software development services entails an extensive procedure wherein the design and creation of an application or software are meticulously executed to meet specific business or personal objectives, requirements, or processes. Wiki
Briefly, software development is the process of creating, designing, and implementing computer programs or applications to meet specific user needs and requirements. It involves the utilization of various programming languages, frameworks, and tools to develop robust, scalable, and efficient software.
The aforementioned process encompasses a multitude of distinct stages: The software development life cycle encompasses 7 key stages, including planning, analysis, product design, development and implementation, testing, and maintenance.
2. Typical Process for Software Development Requirements
Our dedication to continuously improving our software development process allows us to provide cutting-edge products that always go above and beyond for our customers. Here, we’ll get to the core of our offerings, discussing the software development procedures that support our constant pursuit of improvement.
Analyzing Requirements – Georgia Tech – Software Development Process
Approaches for Achieving Success
Our software development procedures are the product of careful forethought, accumulated expertise, and a persistent dedication to finding more effective methods to accomplish business. To ensure that our software solutions are of the highest quality, efficiency, and effectiveness, we use an organized and systemized approach.
Learn more about: What is SDLC? Knowledge of the Software Development Life Cycle
In this section, we will walk you through the 7 key software development stages, which are as follows:
2.1 Requirement Analysis
Prior to beginning any coding endeavors, your partner must allocate a substantial amount of time and exertion towards comprehending the distinctive specifications that pertain to your particular circumstances. The software development team must actively participate in extensive dialogues with the esteemed clients to fully comprehend all aspects of the project, thereby guaranteeing that the final deliverable is in perfect harmony with your organization’s strategic objectives.
This stage is critical since it is the ‘driving force’ that affects the smoothness and success of the whole project later on, with 8 significant variables that must be carefully when it comes to software development on both sides:
- #1 Aspect: Specific Project Goals
The team will find out what the client wants overall, and write it down. For what issue was the program developed? For a firm or a user, what are the most important criteria?
- #2 Aspect: Engaging Stakeholders
Determine and include everyone who has a vested interest in the outcome of the project, from end-users to investors to specialists in the field.
- #3 Aspect: Definition of Scope
Get specific when outlining the project’s boundaries. What capabilities and characteristics should the program have? When it comes to the project, what are the boundaries?
- #4 Aspect: Mandatory vs. Optional Features
The technical team will separate the needs for what the program should be able to accomplish (functional requirements) from the needs for how well it should do those things (non-functional requirements).
- #5 Aspect: Budgeting and Allocating Resources
Budget for the project and assign developers, software & hardware to work on it. Make sure there are enough resources for the project to succeed.
- #6 Aspect: Documentation
Completely document all needs and results. The project team may go back to this record at any time to clarify details or settle a disagreement.
- #7 Aspect: Issues of Compliance and the Law
Incorporate data privacy, security, and intellectual property protections into the project’s planning and execution.
- #8 Aspect: Customer Service and Communication
Consistent updates, reports on progress, and ways for the client to provide input should all be part of your client communication strategy. Aligning expectations with clients requires honest and open communication.
2.3 Planning & Design
Once there’s a firm grasp on what you need, your partner’s skilled team of software development including architects and designers will begin sketching up a plan for your program. Building a solid, scalable, and user-friendly product begins with defining its architecture and choosing the right technology.
During this stage, it is imperative to take into account the typical aspects that require due consideration.
- #1 Aspect: Planning and Building
Outline the software’s top-level structure, including its individual parts and how they work together. Based on the needs of the project, choose a suitable architectural style (such as monolithic or microservices).
- #2 Aspect: Stack of Technologies
Choose an IT infrastructure that supports the goals of the project. Databases, frameworks, libraries, and programming languages all fall under this category.
- #3 Aspect: UI/UX Design
Build interface prototypes and wireframes to see how users will interact with your product. You can guarantee a good experience for your users if you put an emphasis on accessibility, convenience, and user-friendly design.
- #4 Aspect: Structure of the Data
Establish the data model, data storage strategies, and data retrieval methods. In this stage of software development, just think about the safety of your data and whether or not you’re following the rules.
Learn more about: What is Data Representation in the Software Development Process?
- #5 Aspect: Third-Party Integration
Find out whether the program needs to communicate with any external systems, APIs, or services. Make a strategy for implementing and testing these interconnections.
- #6 Aspect: Strategy and Schedule of the Project
Build a comprehensive roadmap and project plan including all necessary activities, their interconnections, and key project milestones.
2.4 Development
Your ideas will be forged in the fire of our software development process. The outsourcing professional developers, fluent in many different languages and frameworks, will work hard to bring your project to life. And, when it comes to how and when to achieve this, usually the majority of technology companies today will follow an agile approach, which allows us to adapt quickly to changes while keeping a consistent focus on code quality.
2.5 Quality Control and Testing
Most software outsourcing organizations place a premium on quality and client happiness as their guiding principles. Most software development teams’ methods for developing new features always require extensive testing. At this point, the QA professionals use a number of techniques, ranging from unit testing to system integration testing, to ensure that your product is bug-free and performs smoothly.
2.6 Deployment and Upkeep
When the time comes to expose your application to the public, the software development business will undoubtedly handle all aspects of the deployment procedure. However, their task will not end there. They will also have to provide comprehensive maintenance and upkeep services to keep your software secure, up to date, and servicing your changing needs.
3. Types of Software Development Companies
It’s crucial for client businesses looking into software outsourcing to be familiar with the various software development firms out there. Each kind succeeds in its own way and meets a different set of requirements in the corporate world. Businesses wishing to outsource their software projects would do well to consider the following sorts of software development companies:
3.1 Custom Software Development Agencies
- Ideal for: Businesses that need highly customized software solutions.
- Key features: Tailor-made solutions are developed from scratch by custom software development businesses. They provide development services that are both adaptable and individualized.
Read: Top 5 Custom Software Development Companies in Vietnam – Selected by The European Business Review.
3.2 Comprehensive Software Development Agencies
- Ideal for: Companies looking for full solutions, from brainstorming to implementation, will benefit the most.
- Key features: Services like requirements analysis, design, development, testing, and maintenance are all part of what full-service companies provide. They’re competent in every aspect of software development.
3.3 Offshore Development Centers (ODCs)
- Ideal for: Organizations in need of affordable engineering teams or augmented IT departments.
- Key features: ODCs are dedicated, continuous partnerships with developers situated abroad; these are typically nations that specialize in “young and inexpensive” IT, like Thailand, Vietnam, India, and the Philippines… They function as an extension of your in-house team, sharing responsibility for projects and ensuring that everyone shares the same values.
3.4 Specialized Development Agencies
- Ideal for: Businesses that need specialists in a certain field or technology.
- Key features: Technically complex projects are best handled by agencies that specialize in the relevant technology, sectors, or areas.
3.5 IT Firms Specializing in Updating Legacy Software
- Ideal for: Corporations using antiquated technology that really needs updating.
- Key features: In reality, it is uncommon to come across organizations that specialize in repairing and regenerating ancient software. Because most outsourcing firms already provide this service. These companies, however, are pros in taking outmoded programs and transforming them into cutting-edge, productive applications.
3.6 Design Agencies Specializing on UI/ UX
- Ideal for: Businesses who put an emphasis on creating a user-friendly interface and satisfying user needs, dedicated to a certain typical software design need.
- Key features: UI/UX design agencies focus on improving the usability of software by building attractive and easy-to-navigate interfaces. Furthermore, the elements that contribute to users’ satisfaction with the applications are also very significant and are shown in the UX design section.
4. Software Development Service Vendors: What to Expect?
The success of your business depends on the selection of software outsourcing vendors. Establishing clear standards for assessment can help you locate a reliable provider who can help you achieve your objectives. According to Saigon Technology, a 10-year IT industry veteran, the following are the 5 most important factors to prioritize when selecting a reliable software outsourcing partner:
4.1 Expectations:
- #1 Expectation: High-quality Deliverables
The first expectation is quality. Surely business customers, once looking for a software outsourcing partner, will make this a priority, and so will you! Once you choose a reliable partner, you can count on the vendor to provide reliable, high-quality software solutions that always work as promised..
- #2 Expectation: Expense-effectiveness
Expect a fair trade-off between efficiency and quality of service provided while keeping costs in mind. Because clients do not always have to compromise quality in exchange for a low price! There are still numerous software outsourcing businesses that compete on the basis of Quality and Price. As a result, you will have various options. Also, remember that you should never sacrifice quality for a lower price.
- #3 Expectation: Security
It is imperative to anticipate that the vendor will place utmost importance on data security and adhere to industry best practices in safeguarding your sensitive information.In addition, other relevant factors such as intellectual laws and regulations in the host country are also something worth considering if you choose to offshoring.
- #4 Expectation: Open communication
It can be said that effective communication skills are essential for the success of the entire project. This refers to both the communication skills and English skills of the development team; and also on platforms for exchanging information, monitoring work progress… The vendor is responsible for keeping you up to speed, answering your questions, and addressing your issues in a timely manner.
- #5 Expectation: Scalability
Scalability is critical for every technological development team since, not only in the present, but also in the future, everyone has to make more extensive progress in order to be successful and serve clients efficiently in the face of market volatility. The vendor must be able to raise or decrease their workforce in response to changes in project requirements or volume.
4.2 Details to Look for in a Reliable Vendor
- #1 Detail: Portfolio
You can verify the portfolio of previous projects that the vendor has worked on in order to evaluate the variety and quality of their work.
- #2 Detail: Competencies of the Team
Credentials, certifications, and specific experience of each team member are three things you should ask about while talking with the vendor to ensure that your future employees are at the right level and capacity that you want.
- #3 Detail: Region & Local time
It is crucial to analyze the vendor’s location before working with them to determine if you can travel to have face-to-face meetings with the staff. In addition, from the perspective of Saigon Technology in some previously shared articles, you should also consider how different time zones may affect communication and the general management of the project.
- #4 Detail: Harmony with the Culture
It’s important to choose a vendor whose viewpoints and ethics in the workplace are consistent with your current internal team, since this will facilitate communication and cooperation.
- #5 Detail: Measures for Safety
In addition to knowledge, skills, and background, the method of preserving confidential information, data, or source code is critical. You don’t want the project you delegated to the outsourcing team to be leaked, do you?
5. Typical Software Services Offered by an Outsourcing Company
There is one thing that Saigon Technology as well as many other leading reputable software outsourcing companies in Pacific Asia often mention in many shared articles: It is crucial to know what kinds of services a software development service firm provides before hiring them.
Here is the of the most popular offerings from software development firms, all of which can help your projects succeed:
5.1 Custom Software Development Services
- Perfect for: Businesses that have their own special needs and objectives.
- Principal Characteristics: Completely custom solutions built from the bottom up to meet your unique requirements and purposes, guaranteeing that your software fully supports your organization’s objectives.
5.2 Web Application Development Services
- Perfect when: The clients are businesses who want to grow their presence on the web or create innovative software for the web.
- Principal Characteristics: Creation of user-friendly, fast-loading, and feature-rich websites, web apps, and other kinds of web-based software.
5.3 Mobile App Development Services
- Perfect for: Businesses whose target audience uses mobile devices or who want to interact with their consumers via specialized apps.
- Principal Characteristics: Developing mobile apps for both iOS and Android, with a focus on user-friendliness and increased interaction with the brand as the end goal.
5.4 Cloud Application Development Services
- Perfect for: Companies who want to take use of cloud computing’s scalability and power, as well as have their software applications run on cloud servers and be easy to develop, deploy, and administer.
- Principal Characteristics: Leveraging the scalability, security, and cost-effectiveness of cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud to build cloud-native apps.
5.5 AI and ML Development Services
- Perfect for: Companies interested in using AI and ML into their software products, getting closer to new trends, choosing new technology to serve users and increase competitiveness.
- Principal Characteristics: Develop advanced algorithms to perform data analysis, generate accurate predictions, and streamline various tasks through automation.
5.6 E-commerce Solution Development Services
- Perfect for: Organizations whose goal it is to open or expand their virtual storefront, very suitable for business units that want to get closer to customers while maintaining convenience for end-users.
- Principal Characteristics: Creating online storefronts that allow for easy navigation and safe financial transactions from start to finish.
5.7 UI/UX Design and Development Services
- Perfect for: Organizations are placing higher emphasis on software’s user interface and experience.
- Principal Characteristics: Properly crafted user interfaces that enhance both the utility and visual appeal of the product for each individual user.
5.8 Quality Assurance and Testing Services
- Perfect for: Companies that put a premium on producing reliable software, wish to have a software product that is guaranteed in terms of technical aspects, avoiding unnecessary errors during use.
- Principal Characteristics: Comprehensive testing to guarantee bug-free, stable, and safe software; this includes functional, performance, and security testing.
5.9 API and Integration Services
- Perfect for: Organizations that want to link up with and incorporate external resources.
- Principal Characteristics: Creating application programming interfaces (APIs) and integration solutions that facilitate interaction between different software modules.
5.10 Legacy Software Modernization Services
- Perfect for: Companies using outdated software that needs modernizing.
- Principal Characteristics: Preserving competitiveness, security, and efficiency in the digital era by updating and upgrading aging systems.
6. Cutting-edge technologies in software development services
Software development services that take use of cutting-edge tools and techniques may provide their clients with competitive advantages. Let’s look at the technologies that are making the most impact on this sector:
6.1 Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
Changing the Nature of Automation
There will soon be a new age of automation and intelligence thanks to AI and ML. Tools like this make it possible for programs to analyze data and modify their behavior accordingly. We can see applications from these two technologies anywhere in our lives.
Specifically, AI and ML have the potential to change many different sectors, including healthcare and finance, by improving the accuracy and efficiency of data-driven choices.
6.2 Internet of Things (IoT)
Bridging the Gap Between the Real and Virtual
With the help of IoT technology, any gadget with an internet connection may join a larger network of “smart,” linked things.
It would not be an exaggeration to say that the Internet of Things has promoted breakthroughs in many fields, such as “smart cities,” healthcare, agriculture, and other industries. IoT improves operations and customer service by providing real-time data, heightened monitoring, and automation to enterprises.
6.3 Blockchain
Strengthening Confidence and Safety
The blockchain technology that has become synonymous with digital currencies like Bitcoin has applications well beyond the financial sector. It’s a trustworthy system for keeping track of financial dealings and managing digital assets. And, of course, its effect is felt all across the world. Although certain countries/territories continue to ban the legality of this sort of technology, its popularity and great security cannot be denied.
Supply chain, healthcare, and legal are just a few examples of areas where blockchain is being utilized to improve trust, decrease fraud, and expedite operations.
6.4 Quantum Computing
Leading the Way with Unparalleled Processing Speed
Quantum computing symbolizes the future of computation. It may be able to tackle challenges that are now too difficult for traditional computers to handle.
Quantum computing is in its early stages, but it has the potential to transform several industries, including encryption, materials research, and AI.
6.5 Using CI/CD in the DevOps process
Quicker Release of New Software
While not particularly focused on “new technology,” continuous integration and development (CI/CD) in DevOps is a significant factor in quickening the pace at which a technological product is completed. Today’s software development cannot function without continuous integration and continuous delivery (DevOps) processes. They prioritize communication and coordination between software engineers and IT administrators, as well as the automation of testing and facilitation of dependable software releases.
7. Selecting the right software development service company
There are many possibilities available in the software development field, and each one offers a unique combination of knowledge, abilities, and methods.Following the reference of articles recognized by the famous Forbes magazine from Saigon Technology, we have filtered out some good ideas about factors to consider when preparing to choose a suitable partner. Here is the vital advice to help with this important decision-making process and guarantee that the goals of your project are accomplished to the highest standard. The most important factors are as follows:
7.1 Find Your Perfect Match via 8 Key Points
#1 Point to Consider: Skill and Know-How
Your ideal collaboration partner will have an established track record of accomplishment in completing projects of a comparable kind. To evaluate their level of competence, you could request case studies, portfolios as well as and customer references.
#2 Point to Consider: The Technical Team’s Expertise
Make sure the organization has experience with the technology your project will need. Their technical expertise is crucial in areas such as web app/ mobile app development, cloud computing, UX/UI design… or any other choice according to your own needs.
#3 Point to Consider: Approaches of Development:
It is crucial that you be familiar with the company’s development process. Their methodology, whether it is Agile, Scrum, or anything else, must be consistent with the needs and goals of your project.
#4 Point to Consider: Openness and honesty in communication
The cornerstone of every successful collaboration is open, honest, and consistent communication. This is not only a matter of the time frame in which we can communicate with each other (in case you choose an offshore company to conduct outsourcing), but also about communication platforms and good English skills or not,…
#5 Point to Consider: Ability to Grow and Change
Your business associate needs to be able to ramp up or down their staffing levels depending on the demands of the project. Because your project status or needs are not always the same, flexibility is really necessary to ensure you stay on a budget, while also being able to make full use of the workforce you have.
#6 Points to Consider: Cost and Budget Expenditure Disclosure
Explore the topic of open pricing and costs. Even while price really matters, it’s wise to keep in mind that you usually get what you pay for. Keep an eye out for extra fees and unreasonably low prices!
#7 Point to Consider: Contractual and Legal Considerations
Examine all legal documents, including contracts, IP protections, NDAs, and dispute resolution policies. Legal issues really need special attention when cooperating with each other, especially when cooperating with a software outsourcing company abroad. Hence, clarity in the law and in contracts is crucial.
#8 Point to Consider: Region and local time
Think about the time zone variances that might arise depending on where the firm is located. The alignment of time zones may dramatically affect communication and project collaboration. Especially if you are headquartered in the US but the software outsourcing team you choose is located in Asia… and that means the difference in hours can be up to half a day.
7.2 The Client & Vendor Relationship
Maintaining compatibility is essential throughout the choosing step. The software development service provider you choose ought to share your business’s beliefs and work philosophy. Collaboration, mutual comprehension, and a harmonious working dynamic are all facilitated by this harmony.
Think of the big picture, not just this one project! Find a collaborator who is committed to the same end goal. With the right knowledge and experience, a software development firm can grow into a reliable partner in your digital transformation efforts.
7.3 Ideal Outsourcing Destinations Worldwide
Several areas and countries stand out as attractive locations for software outsourcing due to their mix of affordable rates and high-quality professionals. Several criteria, such as the nature of the project, available funds, and preferred time zone, should be taken into account before settling on a location.
As of my most recent data collection (January 2022), the following nations are generally regarded as offering an acceptable combination between low living expenses and a pool of talented developers:
- India
Rates (per hour):
Junior Developer: $10 – $20
Mid Developer: $20 – $40
Senior Developer: $40 – $80
Highlights: India has a big and highly trained developer population, making it one of the most inexpensive places for software outsourcing. You have access to a broad variety of technical knowledge and experience.
- Vietnam
Rates (per hour):
Junior Developer: $10 – $20
Mid Developer: $20 – $30
Senior Developer: $30 – $50
Highlights: Based on the advantage of “golden population”, Vietnam is considered a dynamic and enthusiastic Southeast Asian country with a team of young software developers at the most competitive prices in the region.
- Poland
Rates (per hour):
Junior Developer: $20 – $30
Mid Developer: $30 – $50
Senior Developer: $50 – $80
Highlights: Poland’s advantageous location and availability of talented developers make it a desirable choice. The quality of the software it produces is one of its main selling points.
- Belarus
Rates (per hour):
Junior Developer: $20 – $30
Mid Developer: $30 – $50
Senior Developer: $50 – $80
Highlights: Like other countries with strengths in young workforce, Belarus’s developing IT industry provides several benefits, including low costs and a talented developer pool.
- The Philippines
Rates (per hour):
Junior Developer: $10 – $20
Mid Developer: $20 – $30
Senior Developer: $30 – $50
Highlights: When it comes to non-technical professions like customer service, the Philippines has been a favorite outsourcing destination because to its cheap pricing and high quality service vendors.
7.4 Typical Platforms/ Channels to Pick your Vendor
There are several options available to help you locate and choose the best provider of software development for your needs. A few common approaches and platforms to look at are listed below.
#1 Option: Web-based Job Boards and Freelancing Hubs
You may reach a large pool of freelance developers and development agencies by posting your project on websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal. Potential vendors will register to pitch or give you relevant proposals based on the features of each platform. Besides, reviews, ratings, and portfolios are common features of these sites that may assist you decide which providers to work with.
#2 Option: Discussion Forums and Specialty Communities
You may find it helpful to participate in groups, forums, and topics that are specific to your field or technology stack. Having conversations with specialists in the field might help you find reliable partners.
#3 Option: LinkedIn and Other Reliable Social Media Sites
You may find prospective suppliers and learn about their skill sets by using LinkedIn. Twitter and Facebook are two of the numerous social media sites used by businesses to promote their products and services and provide useful information to their target audiences.
#4 Option: Technology Consultants and Management Advisory Firms:
Finding the right suppliers for your project is easier with the assistance of a technology consulting company. In addition, they may help you choose a provider by pointing you in the right direction.
#5 Option: Request for Proposals (RFPs)
You can make a request for proposals (RFP) summarizing the project’s specifications and send it directly to prospective vendors. Consider their explanations and suggestions on how to proceed with your project in light of their comments. However, this option is only ideal in case you already have a few suitable names in mind.
#6 Option: External Review Websites
You can check out Softwareoutsourcing.com, Glassdoor, or Indeed to learn about the vendor’s reputation and employee reviews from outside sources. These platforms always have fields accessible for you to choose depending on the specifics of your project. Simply check or fill in these information criteria, and appropriate vendors will display for you to choose from.
#7 Option: Chambers of Commerce & Regional Business Organizations
Software development business companies may be included in the membership directories of local business groups. Recommendations are available from these groups as well.
Key Takeaways
This guide surely will help you find your way through the confusing ‘maze’ of development firms, whether you’re an aspiring startup with big dreams or a well-established corporation looking to go digital.
From the complex procedures involved in development to the importance of cutting-edge technology, we started by getting a firm grasp on the fundamentals of the software development process. But in general, the key stages we need to remember are Requirement Analysis, Planning and Design, and Testing and Deployment, each of which is very important on the road to delivering high-quality software solutions.
An important choice that must be made is which software development service firm to choose. We highlighted the significance of both legal and contractual clarity and alignment of work cultures, as well as the need of assessing skills, technical competency, communication, expansion, and cost transparency. And from those factors, we move on to the ideal destinations (including countries/territories) to find a suitable reputable software outsourcing agency. It could be Vietnam, India, the Philippines in Asia or other Eastern region countries.
Moreover, when setting out to use software development services, keep in mind that success depends on a well-thought-out strategy, extensive preparation, and an intimate familiarity with your end objectives. Selecting the right vendor and location for outsourcing may make your technological goals a reality; settle for nothing less than the best for your project.
