6 Tips for Outsourcing Apps
Companies need apps these days, for one thing or the other. Even small businesses are launching their own apps to make it easier for consumers to interact with them and purchase products. It is far easier in an app than it is on a website. Apps make things more personal, they are easier to interact with. While companies that are substantial in size and have a lot of money can afford to hire their own team of developers to make apps, smaller firms and businesses can rely on Java outsourcing. This way, the company doesn’t have to have a team of computer programmers, but instead pays one company to design an app for them. This company takes the responsibility of updating or bringing changes to the app. It is a comparatively cheaper option, and very useful for firms with less money. Because it is a bit nerve-wracking to outsource your apps, here are six tips to level out the pressure.
1. Have a budget and deadline
When you give responsibly to a third party, you have to be very transparent with them. Developers have a habit of getting ahead of themselves when granted leisure. So be clear about the amount of money you wish to spend and the time allocated to develop the app. If you don’t give them proper deadlines, they will delay the app delivery.
2. What you want
When outsourcing, you have to let the developers know exactly what you want. There must be constant consultation between you and the developer so the app matches your needs and expectations. The developers should be upfront about explaining how much bang you’ll get for your buck. At the start of the development, chalk out the features, interface, user interaction, etc. to prevent any misunderstandings. Apps have a lot of details and you should clear all that out with your developer upfront.
3. Choose wisely
There are thousands of app developers you can outsource your apps. However, be careful about whom you give it to. Whether you meet them online or in person, make sure that they are legitimate and reliable. Look for credentials; if it’s a website, ask other people who have used their services; if you’re meeting face to face, look at their portfolio and certificates to ensure that they are competent enough. You are spending a great deal of money on this, so make sure that you do your research. Download apps they’ve developed and look at all reviews.
4. Detailed brief
Create a detailed brief for your developers. It’s important to chalk out the layout of your app. All functions and specifications should be considered to avoid discrepancies later. Make a list of what functions you are expecting from the app, how you want the design and layout, etc. There are many things to an app; the buttons, menu, colors, etc. Everything has to be considered in the detailed brief.
5. Feedback
Once your app has been developed into an initial stage, the developer will send you a beta version for testing. This stage is very crucial. It is your responsibility to provide developers with a detailed and concise feedback document about the beta version. Use the app as much as possible and explore all functions, as well as let third party members test it out.
6. Approved by the App/Play Store
App stores have their own standards about content and functions of apps. Different platforms have different standards. Don’t arrange your developers till you’ve received approval from your App Store; pay them after the process has been done. Your app should have minimum usage functionalites; otherwise an App Store won’t list it.
Java outsourcing has its advantages, but you must be careful about who you give it to, to keep track of the app. It is your responsibility to ensure that your developer gives you a fully functional app.