How to choose the right software company: 7 questions to ask before you sign

Choosing the company that builds your software is one of the most important decisions for your business. A good choice gives you a system that works for you for years. A bad one leaves you with a product no one wants to touch any more. Here are seven questions to help you choose well.

1. Will you hand over the source code?

The right answer is yes. If a company refuses to give you the code, you're trapped: you can't change supplier and you pay indefinitely. Your code should be yours.

2. Do you use templates or write from scratch?

Templates are cheap, but they come with unnecessary, slow code and vulnerabilities. For a serious project, code written from scratch is faster, more secure and easier to extend.

3. What does a previous project look like, live?

Ask for real, working examples, not just screenshots. A live portfolio shows that the company actually delivers, rather than just making promises.

4. Who will I be talking to during the project?

You want a direct line to the people doing the building, not a chain of middlemen. Clear communication is half the success of a project.

5. What happens after delivery?

A good partner doesn't disappear after launch. Ask about the warranty, support and maintenance. Software needs looking after like anything that's alive.

6. Will you give me a clear estimate before we start?

Steer clear of vague answers. A serious company gives you a realistic budget and timeline upfront, rather than springing surprises on you at the end.

7. Will you also tell me when it's NOT worth spending?

The best sign of trustworthiness is a company that advises you not to spend money on something unnecessary. If all you hear is yes to everything, be careful.

At AI Soft we answer yes to all of the above: code written from scratch and handed over to you, direct communication, a clear estimate and honest advice. If you'd like to ask us these questions directly, write to us below.