Are you a project manager looking to book a dedicated team of software developers for your current project? There may be challenges and drawbacks in choosing a dedicated team rather than choosing the other team models of the business. Since you’re working with people not part of your company, the challenge can span from different software visions and fast communication channels.
Nevertheless, a dedicated software development team can be the most affordable option for you. Since dedicated teams are more suited for long-term projects, you don’t need to do the work of recruiting talent to continue the software development process constantly. Here are some tips for booking the best team who can handle the project seamlessly for a longer period.
Emphasize the necessary technical skills for the project
The first thing you need to do is assess the technical skills necessary for the project. What part do you want to focus on, and which positions can give you the most seamless work for the job? If you’re looking for developers who know how to code in specific languages, make it a non-negotiable skill when inquiring with a vendor or agency.
Each position of a dedicated team is highly crucial, and each person holds a skillset that progresses the project. If you miss out on defining what you’re looking for, you may end up scrapping a lot of work from the team when there are already set payment terms and work contracts. Here are some of the technical skills you may need in a project: focus on data structure and algorithms, flexible programming skills in multiple languages, basic text editing work, IDE, and other technical positions in the team.
Check the company portfolio and achievements
The next tip is to be vigilant about the company or vendor you inquire with. There are millions of software developers across the globe, and a big chunk comes from thousands of companies. It’s best to check the company’s background to guarantee that you’re not only getting a reputable service, but you also actually have proof of work and achievement from the company.
Look for all the possible online presence of the company. Start with looking and assessing the company websites, financial statement reports, and website landing pages. There is always a tell-tale way of knowing that you are inquiring with a professional company. Next, check for social media engagement and how the company interacts with customers online. One way to avoid spending big on inefficient teams is by preparation and deep research.
Look for accreditations and certifications from the vendor
When you’re scouting for a vendor to build a dedicated team model, ask for the primary documentation of the company first; just like employees who have Identification Cards for work, companies have paperwork and licenses as their operational ID for records. Don’t book for companies who can’t show valid accreditations as you will be working with a dedicated team for a longer-term period.
The accreditations and certifications don’t only show validity and legitimization of business. These things also showcase the skill level of people who work as dedicated team members. The skill of each professional who is part of the vendor or agency boosts the portfolio and business activity of the company. Therefore, these certifications also act as achievement points and recognition of the company’s value.
Maintain a contact person from the dedicated team
Once you have already chosen the dedicated team for the project, the real work now begins. It’s best to contact the leader or Person-in-Charge of the dedicated team. As the professional developers work on the project, you need someone who runs around to attend to things that are not part of the software development process. Maintain the point of contact to ensure that information and messages are relayed clearly if you can’t be with the dedicated team to discuss.
Open the communication channels properly by making use of project management applications. Many projects fail because there is a lack of communication about the project vision and goals. It’s also best to note that the language barrier is a big problem for all professionals across the globe. If you’re working with a team that doesn’t speak your language, the contact person should effectively relay the messages in both languages.
Request for a list of reference of referrals
Dedicated team performance often comes from a boost in the word of mouth or referrals. It’s better to see and believe despite all the background research you perform on the company. Get a list of reference people from the company and other project managers in the industry.
You may need to apply some networking skills to validate that you’re working with the most compatible team for your project. A simple thing you can do to access some reference people is by going to the vendor’s office and inquiring, or by simply asking around your peers and colleagues. Ask the right questions so you can gauge the potential professionals who you will work with.