The Kitchen Table
How to Choose a Software Development Partner (A Checklist)
Knowing how to choose a software development company matters because the wrong choice is expensive, in money, time, and the cleanup afterwards. We see the aftermath often, because rescuing those projects is part of what we do. Here is what to look for so you do not become one of them.
What to look for
- Relevant, real proof. Case studies and projects similar in shape to yours, not just a logo wall.
- Straight communication. Do they explain things clearly and tell you what you need to hear, not only what you want to?
- Ownership and handover. Will you own the code and documentation, able to hand it to any competent developer later?
- A real process. Discovery, iterative delivery, testing, not just "we'll start coding."
Questions worth asking
- What happens if the project runs over scope or time?
- Who owns the code and the intellectual property (IP) when we are done?
- How do you handle testing and quality?
- What does support look like after launch?
- Can I see or speak to a past client?
Red flags
- A quote with no discovery or questions about your business.
- Vagueness about ownership, or hints of lock-in.
- Pressure to commit fast, or a price that seems too good to be true.
- No clear answer on testing, documentation, or support.
The quick checklist
Before you sign: relevant proof ✓, clear communication ✓, you own the code ✓, a defined process ✓, honesty about scope and cost ✓, support after launch ✓. If a partner ticks those, you are in good hands.
How we work
We are upfront about scope, timelines, and cost before we start, we build for your long-term ownership, and we do not disappear after launch. If that sounds like the partner you want, tell us about your project, a rough idea is enough to start.
Free download: 15 Questions to Ask a Dev Partner (+ Red Flags)
The questions to ask, and the warning signs to watch for, before you hire anyone to build your software. Add your name, business, and email and we'll send it over, no obligation, no spam.
