A Definitive Guide to Hiring Outsourced App Developer

According to Statista, the global app market is projected to reach a staggering $652 billion by 2025. With such exponential growth on the horizon, businesses of all sizes are increasingly turning to outsourcing as a viable solution. In fact, 60% of businesses hire outsourced app developer, recognizing the numerous advantages it brings. According to PA Consulting (UK), the top reasons for IT Outsourcing are lower cost (71%), business transformation (50%), and better service quality (50%).

Whether you’re a startup or an established company, finding the right outsourced app developer can be a daunting task. But don’t worry, we will provide you with comprehensive knowledge and invaluable tips on hiring outsourced app developers.

By understanding the potential pitfalls, the key considerations, and the best practices, you’ll be well-equipped to make informed decisions that can lead to successful partnerships and outstanding mobile applications.

7 Potential Benefits Of Hiring Outsourced App Developers

Access to Global Talent

Outsourcing allows you to tap into a vast pool of global talent. You can choose from a diverse range of skilled developers who possess specialized knowledge and expertise in app development. This provides access to a broader skill set than what may be available in your local talent pool.

5 countries stand at the top in outsourcing app development, include:

• Vietnam: which offers high-quality development resources and is known for its affordability, making it an attractive outsourcing destination. Vietnamese developers often provide excellent value for the cost.
• India: India boasts a massive outsourcing market with a vast pool of skilled developers. It is well-known for its competitive pricing, making it a cost-effective option.
• Ukraine: Ukraine’s developers typically have a good command of English, facilitating communication with clients. The country offers competitive pricing, making it a cost-effective choice. However, the political environment in Ukraine can be somewhat unstable, which may impact business operations.
• Philippines: The Philippines is emerging as a destination for app development outsourcing. The workforce in the Philippines is highly proficient in English, simplifying communication. Competitive pricing and quality services are key factors attracting businesses.
• Poland: Poland is gaining recognition for its skilled software developers. Its strategic European location and competitive costs are appealing. Polish developers are known for their commitment to quality and adherence to international standards.

Cost Efficiency

Gathering the best and most talented app developers internally can be challenging for HR professionals because of the cumbersome and costly selection, interview, and probationary stages. Besides, the salary you have to pay them to keep them is not low, if not quite high.

Outsourcing app developers can save you a lot of money on staffing costs and employee benefits. You can spend your budget on what you need most, that’s the amazing techniques the developers have to offer. In addition, outsourcing app developers also gives you access to cheap labor in a few different countries around the world than your home country.

Time Savings

Outsourcing accelerates the app development process by leveraging the experience and efficiency of external developers. They are dedicated to delivering high-quality results within agreed-upon timelines. This allows you to focus on other core business activities while the development work progresses.

Flexibility and Scalability

With the motor not stopped by the market and trade, flexibility is the nature of every business. Outsourcing provides flexibility in scaling your development team according to project requirements. You can quickly ramp up or downsize the resources as needed, without the complexities associated with hiring and firing employees. This scalability is particularly beneficial for projects with fluctuating workloads.

Industry Insights and Best Practices

Outsourced app developers often bring a wealth of industry knowledge and best practices gained from working on various projects. They can offer valuable insights, suggest improvements, and implement the latest trends and technologies to enhance your app’s functionality and user experience.

Focus on Core Competencies

By outsourcing app development, you can concentrate on your organization’s core competencies and strategic goals. It allows you to allocate internal resources to areas where they can make the most significant impact, such as marketing, business development, and customer engagement.

Risk Mitigation

Reputable outsourcing partners often have established processes, quality assurance measures, and experience in managing risks associated with app development. They can navigate potential challenges, such as technology changes, market demands, and security concerns, thus reducing the overall project risk.

3 Outsourcing Options for App Development – Pros & Cons

When considering outsourcing app development, you may see the common options of  hiring a company, a freelancer, or an off-the-shelf software solution for your software development project. This choice depends on the project’s specific needs, budget, and customization requirements. Here’s a comparison of the pros and cons of each option for you to consider.

Criteria	Outsourcing Company	Freelance App Developers	Off-the-Shelf Software Solution
Pros	– Specialized teams with diverse skills – Suitable for complex and large projects – Higher quality assurance – Managed project management – Facilitated communication – Scalability for larger projects – Often includes maintenance and support – Lower development risk	– Flexibility to choose specific talent – Potential cost savings – Direct communication with developers – Customization based on your needs – Ownership of the code – May be cost-effective – Ability to own the code – Potentially quicker start	– Quick implementation – Lower initial cost – Tested and stable – Vendor-provided support – Faster deployment
Cons	– Can be higher cost – Limited control over project management – May require negotiation for code ownership	– Quality and availability may vary – Project management is your responsibility – Limited scalability for larger projects – May require separate maintenance arrangements – Limited scalability for larger projects	– Limited customization options – Limited control over updates – May not meet unique needs – Limited code ownership, license-based

What Do I Need to Consider When Hiring an Outsourced App Developer?

Technical Proficiency

The perfect outsourced app developer possesses a strong technical skill set and extensive experience in mobile app development. They should be proficient in relevant programming languages (such as Swift for iOS or Kotlin for Android), have a deep understanding of mobile app frameworks, and be well-versed in app architecture and design patterns.

Portfolio of Successful Projects

Look for a developer with a proven track record of delivering high-quality, successful mobile applications. Review their portfolio to assess the diversity of projects they have worked on, their ability to create intuitive user interfaces, and their attention to detail in crafting robust and scalable code.

Adaptability and Continuous Learning

The tech landscape is constantly evolving, and the ideal outsourced app developer is someone who embraces change and is eager to learn new technologies and trends. They should be adaptable and open to exploring innovative solutions to meet your specific app development needs.

Strong Communication Skills

Effective communication is vital for successful outsourcing collaborations. The developer should be responsive, proactive in sharing project updates, and capable of understanding and articulating your requirements. They should be able to effectively communicate technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, fostering a transparent and collaborative working relationship.

Problem-Solving Abilities

App development often involves overcoming challenges and finding creative solutions. The perfect outsourced app developer should possess strong problem-solving skills, be able to analyze complex issues, and propose effective solutions within project constraints. They should be proactive in identifying potential roadblocks and offering recommendations to optimize the development process.

Project Management and Support

Inquire about the developer’s project management capabilities and their approach to handling project timelines, milestones, and deliverables. Determine the level of support they provide post-launch, including bug fixes, updates, and ongoing maintenance. A developer who offers comprehensive project management and support can add value to your outsourcing arrangement.

Data Security and Confidentiality

App development may involve handling sensitive data and intellectual property. Ensure that the developer has robust data security measures in place and is committed to maintaining the confidentiality of your information. Consider signing non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) or other legal contracts to protect your interests.

Attention to User Experience

A great app developer understands the importance of delivering an exceptional user experience. They should prioritize usability, performance, and intuitive design, ensuring that the app meets the expectations of its target audience. Look for a developer who pays attention to user feedback, conducts thorough testing, and incorporates user-centric design principles into their work.

Professionalism and Reliability

The ideal outsourced app developer is professional, reliable, and committed to meeting project deadlines. They should have a strong work ethic, demonstrate accountability, and maintain open lines of communication. Look for testimonials or references that highlight their professionalism and ability to work well within teams.

Pricing and Budget

Discuss pricing models, payment terms, and budget expectations with the developer. Understand their pricing structure, whether it’s based on fixed pricing, hourly rates, or a combination. Compare their pricing with industry standards to ensure it aligns with your budget constraints.

Best Practice To Hire An Outsourced App Developer

1. Define The Project Requirements

Clearly define your project requirements, including the app’s features, functionality, target audience, and desired platforms. Providing a detailed project brief helps potential developers understand your expectations and deliver accurate proposals.

2. Conduct Thorough Research

Research and shortlist potential developers based on their expertise, experience, and reputation. Look for online reviews, testimonials, and case studies to gauge their past performance. Consider their industry presence, client feedback, and recognition within the app development community.

3. Request And Review Portfolio

Request portfolios from shortlisted developers to assess the quality of their previous work. Review their app designs, user interfaces, and overall user experience. Pay attention to their ability to create visually appealing, intuitive, and engaging mobile applications.

4. Conduct Interviews And Technical Assessments

Conduct interviews or technical assessments to evaluate the developer’s technical proficiency and problem-solving skills. Assess their knowledge of relevant programming languages, frameworks, and tools. Consider assigning a small development task or conducting a coding test to assess their practical skills.

5. Check communication and collaboration skills

Effective communication and collaboration are essential for successful outsourcing. During the hiring process, evaluate the developer’s responsiveness, clarity in communication, and ability to understand and address your questions and concerns. Gauge their level of engagement and their willingness to collaborate.

6. Address Your Perfect Developer And Sign the Contract

Once you’ve selected a developer, ensure that all project details, deliverables, timelines, and payment terms are clearly documented in a contract or agreement. Include clauses related to data security, confidentiality, intellectual property rights, and dispute resolution to protect your interests.

Where To Hire An Outsourced App Developer?

Freelance Platform

Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal provide a vast pool of freelance app developers. You can browse through profiles, review portfolios, and hire developers based on their skills, experience, and client reviews. These platforms often offer tools for project management, communication, and secure payment transactions.

Online Job Boards

Platforms like LinkedIn, Indeed, and Glassdoor offer job boards where you can post app developer job listings. You can screen applicants, review their profiles, and conduct interviews to find suitable candidates. These platforms are commonly used by developers actively seeking job opportunities.

Development Communities and Forums

Online development communities and forums like GitHub, Stack Overflow, or Reddit have active communities of developers. You can post job listings or engage with developers who showcase their expertise in relevant technologies. It allows you to connect with developers who have a strong passion for coding and contribute to open-source projects.

You can post a discussion like this or contact the most helpful member of the community:

Outsourced Agency

Mageplaza is a professional agency that provides outsourced app development services. We specialize in turning your vision into a reality, delivering stunning, user-centric mobile applications that captivate and engage your audience. Our collaborative approach ensures your unique vision and business goals are fully realized, while our cutting-edge technology and seamless user experiences set your app apart from the competition.

We stay at the forefront of technology trends, leveraging the power of native software development, cross-platform frameworks, and emerging technologies. With transparent communication and ongoing support, we’re dedicated to your app’s success even after its launch.

UNLOCK THE FULL POTENTIAL OF YOUR APP HERE

One Last Word

Embrace the opportunities presented by the booming app market by partnering with the right outsourced app developer. Let their expertise and your vision create exceptional mobile experiences that propel your business forward.