DuomlyThis article was originally published at: https://www.blog.duomly.com/software-development-outsourcing-guide/
Business owners are always looking for ways to reduce costs and increase profits. One way to do this is by outsourcing development work. But before you can make an informed decision about whether or not development outsourcing is right for your business, you need to understand what it is and what it entails.
This article will provide a basic overview of development outsourcing and discuss some of the benefits and drawbacks associated with it.
1. What is development outsourcing
When companies outsource their software and app development projects, they usually hire a third-party company or developer to work on the project for them. These outsourced developers can be located anywhere in the world, as long as they have an internet connection.
The client and the outsourced developer will typically have a pre-established agreement that details what they can expect from one another before work begins. This agreement will typically include timelines, payment terms, and general expectations.
2. Benefits of development outsourcing
One of the main benefits of development outsourcing is that it allows companies to save money on hiring in-house developers when they don't need them full-time.
It also provides companies with expert developers who have the knowledge and experience required to complete high-quality development projects.
These outsourced developers are typically very skilled in what they do, so your project is more likely to be successful if you outsource it.
3. Drawbacks of development outsourcing
The main drawback of development outsourcing is an increased risk of security breaches because so much sensitive client information will be stored on remote servers controlled by your outsourced developer.
There is also a slight drop in quality since each outsourced developer's processes and methods will vary depending on what they are used to doing.
4. What is involved in development outsourcing
There are two main types of outsourced development projects: those that involve web-based programming (including web apps and mobile apps) and those that revolve around software development.
While there may be some overlap between the two categories, there are significant differences as well:
Web app development: This type of project can involve developing a new website or updating an existing one to improve functionality and meet the client's goals and needs. Web app developers may also be asked to create a native mobile app for their client's target audience. The goal here is to help clients expand their footprint online by creating sites/apps that people want to interact with and use.
Software development: Software development projects are more complex, involving creating new programs or significant updates to existing ones. This type of project can be broken down further, depending on what the developer is being asked to do. For example, a software developer may be hired to design/code an entirely new program from scratch or update/fix certain aspects of an existing one (such as bugs).
5. Who uses development outsourcing
As mentioned above, companies outsource their web app and software development projects for cost-efficiency reasons.
It allows them to focus on what they do best while someone else completes these time-consuming tasks for them.
Most businesses choose this route when they need additional help creating mobile apps, fixing bugs in existing ones, building new client-facing features, or increasing foreign sales by translating their text into different languages.
6. Who provides development outsourcing
We do and will be happy to work with you!
Although many of the companies that provide outsourcing services are based in India, there are also developers located worldwide who work on outsourced projects through platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Guru.
Many of these developers have years of experience creating mobile apps, web apps, and software programs for clients around the globe. They typically specialize in specific types of development work (like coding), but some can handle multiple tasks.
7. How much does development outsourcing cost
There are a lot of factors that go into pricing development projects, including what type/level of expertise the outsourced developer has, how much time they spend on the project and what type of technology is involved. The cost will also depend on whether or not it involves building a new site/app from scratch or simply updating an existing one.
In general, development outsourcing costs anywhere between $20 and $130 per hour, depending on the expertise level and location of the outsourced developer. However, companies can save money by shopping around for talent specializing in their particular niche (e.g., Android development) instead of hiring someone who's more generalized in their skill set.
Additionally, the location of your outsourced developer can also affect the overall cost. Developers located in countries like India and Pakistan typically charge much less than North America or Western Europe.
However, you should keep in mind that offshore developers may lower the quality of work.
8. Development outsourcing vs other forms of outsourcing
Development outsourcing falls under the umbrella of "offshoring," which refers to companies hiring workers for digital tasks in countries other than their own. This type of outsourcing is very common, along with customer service outsourcing and back-office/administrative support.
9. How to find development outsourcing
Companies can use Upwork, Freelancer, and Guru to hire web app developers for their projects.
They'll need to create a detailed job posting that outlines what they're looking for in a developer (skillset, technology expertise, etc.) then comb through the applications until they find someone who matches their criteria.
In addition to reviewing applicants' resumes and portfolios, companies should ask for references from past clients who worked with them on similar projects before hiring them for an outsourced project.
10. How to find a good developer to outsource your work to
Many outsourcing companies have an established track record in the industry, so finding one you can trust shouldn't be too difficult.
You may need to do some research online before contacting prospective developers.
Your criteria should include factors such as location, cost estimation, availability, time zone differences, and preferred methodology.
If you need help finding a qualified developer to outsource your work to, please don't hesitate to contact us.
We have a team of experienced professionals who can help you get the most out of your software development.
11. When should you consider using development outsourcing for your business?
You may want to consider using development outsourcing when you need an expert to help with a critical aspect of your business but don't necessarily need them full time.
For example, suppose your company needs mobile app development services. In that case, it may be better for you to outsource the development of your app rather than hiring a full-time developer.
12. Tips on how to make the process more successful and less stressful
The most important thing you can do to increase your chances of success when outsourcing software development is to go into the project with an open mind and listen to your outsourced developer's feedback.
You should also document your entire development process because it will help you to better understand how other developers work and what they need from their clients.
13. What happens if your software outsourcing fails?
Suppose your software outsourcing doesn't go according to plan. In that case, you should try working with another developer until you find one who can give you the results your business requires.
You should also document your entire development process. If this does happen, you won't have to start from scratch with future developers.
14. Where can I find more information?
Suppose you require further assistance or would like to discuss outsourcing software development further. In that case, you can contact the outsourcing company you plan to work with. Additionally, there are many blogs and forums online where other business owners provide information and discuss their experiences.
If you're interested in learning more about development outsourcing, please don't hesitate to contact us.
15. Conclusion: is it right for your business?
Development outsourcing is an excellent way for companies to save money on hiring in-house developers when they don't need them full-time.
It also provides companies with access to expert developers who have the knowledge and experience required to complete high-quality development projects.
The main drawback of development outsourcing is an increased risk of security breaches because so much sensitive client information will be stored on remote servers controlled by your outsourced developer.
There is also a slight drop in quality since each outsourced developer's processes and methods will vary depending on what they are used to doing.
If you're interested in learning more about development outsourcing or need help finding a qualified developer to outsource your work to, please don't hesitate to contact us.
We have a team of experienced professionals who can help you get the most out of your software development.
Thank you for reading,
Radek from Duomly
