The Absolute Guide to Finding App Developers, p. 2

You have gathered a lengthy preliminary list of app developers. The next step: shortening the list and pinpointing the best and most suitable partners for your software project. In order to find dependable app developers that suit your demands you should have an in-depth look at a few measures of compatibility — from their portfolio to the passion they have for your project.

Finding App Developers — The promise of portfolio

When you open a software company’s website or profile on a dedicated listing of app developers, the portfolio section (often named Client Success Stories, Case Studies, or Past Projects) should be your first stop. This section will signal whether you should get in touch with a custom software development company or quickly move on to the next one in your list.

A noteworthy software company portfolio should meet a number of requirements:

A good portfolio should include at least 10 software development projects: ten cases are more than enough to showcase the capabilities of app developers and other specialists on the project.

On one side, the number isn’t big. On the other, if the cases are descriptive, you will see a clear picture of the app developers’ capabilities. Remember that many clients prefer their apps to be excluded from a software development company’s portfolio (to stay ahead of competition in a definitive moment or as part of a non-disclosure agreement).

A noteworthy app portfolio should be coherent, descriptive, and to the point

A noteworthy app portfolio should be coherent, descriptive, and to the point. When it comes to custom app development, case studies should follow a problem-solution-effect pattern, have app screenshots, and a client description. Separate solutions, like UI/UX design for mobile apps, might exhibit a different delivery, displaying design concepts, schemes, and a description of the thinking behind the process.

Portfolios that exhibit such characteristics will allow you to move on to the next step — getting in touch with the software development company you are interested in and arranging a meeting.

At this stage, case studies should remain in the spotlight of your attention. Ask your potential app developers to give you deeper insight into their projects. This will help you understand the depth of their expertise and decide whether they are a suitable partner for your business.

Case studies should stay in the spotlight of your attention on the first meeting with your potential software development partner

Additionally, a solid software development company will most certainly place their portfolio (or showcase clients with links to case studies) somewhere near the top of the Home page.

Finding App Developers — The latest technologies

Augmented and virtual reality, artificial intelligence, beacons, and other technologies are being developed and deployed across multiple industries, changing the way they operate and cater to the needs of their clients.

As smartphones had become an inherent part of our lives, the change is aided by mobile. More and more apps are using AI-based chatbots; retail has embraced VR, AR, and beacons to deliver new, immersive, and emotional user experiences; and machine learning is slowly entering the enterprise environment. These technologies streamline business operations, help companies cut costs, and bring a wide array of other benefits.

Consequently, you should look out for iOS and Android app developers who have experience in creating software that uses at least one of the latest technologies. In the long-run, this will help you ensure that you are working with a partner who is capable of helping you keep up with the demands of your industry.

Finding app developers — App reviews

If you plan a deep, rigorous search, you should also consider “raw” feedback from users of the developers’ apps. Here, there are several things to keep in mind while reading reviews:

1. Apple’s App Store resets reviews after every app update. You will not be able to see how users reacted to overhauls, bugs, and other changes. Very often, the comment section will have no comments at all. On the other hand, comments in the Apple App Store are to the point and usually not too emotion-driven compared to other app stores.
2. Google Play lets you see all app reviews — from the first version to the latest update. You can keep track of whether the Android app developers have been listening to user requests, and monitor the quality and timeliness of updates. Expect pure feedback — many users on Google Play express their feeling about updates quite emotionally. Another thing to consider is that the majority of smartphone users in the world have Android devices with branded software on top, and satisfying the needs of each and every user is a challenge that takes a lot of time and effort.

Additionally, BusinessofApps advised users to keep in mind the negativity bias: people leave reviews when they dislike something far more often than when they liked something. They also note the importance of numbers: 100 negative reviews don’t make an app with 250 000 users a bad app.

Finding app developers — Niche specializations

Some industries — like healthcare and logistics — demand a complex and nuanced approach to software development. Thus, you should consider the experience your potential app developers have in your industry.

For example, a hospital can create a simple navigation and information app by using an app builder (without the help of mobile app developers), but they will need to approach a custom software development company for hospital software, which, for example, digitises and automates operations. What’s more, the company should know the particular regulations and rules that determine the functionality of a healthcare software solution.

Counting in passion as criteria is not immediately evident, but it could eventually define the success of your app.

Finding app developers — Passion for the project

Forbes points out that passion for your project is another criteria that’s not immediately evident, but could define the success of your software. App developers are open-minded folk who like to read, travel, and indulge in various activities, so it is likely that they might be familiar with your industry. If you own a restaurant chain, ask the app developers you consider hiring about their attitude towards food — an individual who loves food culture as much as your customers might build you a better app than one who doesn’t.

Finding app developers — The bottom line

Of course, finding the perfect long-term app development partner is a process of trial and error. However, following some (or, better yet — all) of these guidelines will significantly increase your chances of finding the perfect app developers from the get-go.