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Mobile applications: What is important to specify & document when seeking to hire an app development company?
JG
JG
JC Garrett, Helping you plan/execute tech & sales strategies answered:

I've worked on writing, reviewing and submitting hundreds of Technical RFPs over the past 8 years and know it can be an exciting (but daunting) task. I've sat in every conceivable role (client, vendor, consultant, project manager etc) and seen great documents lead to excellent result for everyone involved, and of course poorly written documents that let one or all parties down ultimately. That being said, there are a few other points I would consider making sure you include:

- a clear and concise outline of how questions should be submitted and will be responded to.
- any quantifiable metrics which will help self-eliminate unqualified candidates from taking up time/resources in the review process (i.e. a firm target budget/timeline.)
- include (to whatever extent possible) and in-person interview porition to be completed prior to making a final selection
- make sure to include a request for them to articulate how ongoing support will (or won't) be offered. Ask for EXAMPLES of what ongoing support looks like for their organization in terms of maintaining and updating the application.
- ask how prioritization of resources (devs, designers etc) will occur both during and after the project.
- ask for an organization chart so you can understand the hierarchy of the company and an org chart for the implementation team supporting your rollout.
- request a copy of their primary service agreement
- request examples of comparable projects and clients as well as to share references which you can connect with.
- for mobile work, make sure to highlight whether or not you are requiring native mobile development, or open to considering non-native (wrap app/phone gap etc) solutions as well.
- ask about their testing processes and which platforms they use to deliver incremental version updates during and after the final build process so you and key stakeholders can be aware of progress.

Again, the RFP crafting process is (and should be) an investment of time on your part. The journey you are about to embark on will only get less organized and potentially convoluted as time goes on - so staying very organized and detail-focused now will give you the best chance to attract, vet and then select the qualified partner you need to make your project painlessly come to life.

I would be happy to set up some time to chat more and answer any other questions/provide any commentary that may help as you start or wrap up this process (and even beyond if needed in the selection process.)

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