What Are the Downsides of Co-Sourcing IT Projects?
It’s important to note that co-sourcing a software development project comes with its own set of risks. Sure, there are numerous benefits gained by leveraging a talented, external team for your IT needs, but you need to be aware of a few issues to ensure a smooth process and a successful result. Understanding these potential downsides ahead of time helps you mitigate their impact if they arise.
What follows is a look at some of the potential problems associated with co-sourcing an application development effort. They offer some food for thought before deciding on a software engineering vendor for your project.
When It Comes to Software Development Vendors — Choose Wisely
Perform an adequate due diligence when searching for a co-sourcing vendor. This includes researching their client list and project portfolio, as well as asking for recommendations from your professional network. Going with an experienced firm with a top-notch reputation needs to be the goal.
Anything less carries the risk of an unsuccessful project and little to no return on your investment.
Make Sure Your Current Team Is Properly Integrated with the Co-sourcers
If you employ your own programming staff, using an external development team on a software project may ruffle a few feathers. It is important to deal with any problems quickly to ensure employee morale doesn’t suffer. Properly integrating the team is vital, especially if your own staff will be responsible for code maintenance in the future.
Remind your programmers to treat this as an opportunity to learn new technologies and potentially a new methodology. Ultimately, exposure to different programming styles is good for their career growth.
Because of this close interaction between your staff and the co-sourced team, take care to ensure the chosen vendor has a company culture similar to your own. This helps to build a camaraderie and collaborative spirit which is vital in the Agile era.
Security Issues Are Paramount
Take extra care to ensure your chosen vendor has a sterling reputation for security. Any relevant non-disclosure agreements and similar documentation need to be handled before work starts. Make sure there is a plan for the secure delivery of any source code and documentation.
Mitigate Any Concerns by Partnering with a Top Co-sourcing Vendor
You are able to lessen any worries about these and other potential downsides to co-sourcing by choosing a top ranked, experienced software development vendor, like SDE. Our co-sourcing project model ensures a collaborative effort leading to a successful project completion.
When your company is in the market for an co-sourced software solution, consider a partnership with SDE. As one of the leading software development companies in the industry, we can help make your project a success – no matter its scope or complexity. Contact us at your earliest convenience.
