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| Discussing Software Product Development Requirements |
Software product development is the process where dos and don’ts can seem vague, especially taking into account the amount of information on this topic. Confused independent software vendors (ISVs) are constantly on the run searching for more related innovations to apply. Consequently, what most ISVs do, is concentrating on the particular process or stage of custom software development (especially in case of outsourcing services), while neglecting the basics – proper negotiations and discussions of the project details. To be more exact, precise requirements regarding software product development are not just a must, they are the foundation.
If one analyzes the most common reasons for a project failure, they will clearly see that the communication gap comes first on the list. Have you ever heard of the situation, when a customer is not fully satisfied with the results, because “something different was planned/meant/hoped for, etc.”? However, software developers in most cases do not possess the ability to foresee “the hidden.” This results in anything, but fruitful cooperation.
Who is the one to blame here? Actually, both sides could have contributed to better results:
If you are a customer, who is eager to get involved into a new software product development project, it is of great interest for you to be as precise about the requirements as possible. You are the one, who knows, what the product should be designed for, what kind of needs it should satisfy, and how it should be implemented. The crucial moment here is to explain it all to the software services provider, without omitting everything that is “implied.” You can even launch talks with several companies, as you will get an opportunity to learn how your product idea can be interpreted and realized by differently thinking people.
If you are a provider of software services, you must ensure the work is completed on time and to full extent; this will have an impact on your reputation and either attract or discourage your potential clients. Thus, have the customer explain every possible (and impossible) detail of the project, inquire not only for the essential technical information, but also for the variations, ideas, thoughts, associations, and even dreams, as your primary task is to make the customer’s dream come true. Saying it shortly, get inspired by the new software development project and try to learn as much as possible about it.
Finally, you should not just keep the idea in your mind, but stick to it in your daily routine, whether you are a customer or a provider. Remember, awareness is a sure way to successful offshore software product development.