10
How to Develop Software Better and Faster:
A Guide to Strategic Outsourcing
Art & Logic
software engineering and design
About Art & Logic, Inc
The world's top technology
companies trust Art & Logic with
their critical software projects-
companies like HP, Nortel,
Yamaha, Apple, and Broadcom.
Art & Logic has industry
experience in audio/music,
datacom/telecom, broadcast/film,
education, and others. The
company develops applications
and drivers for desktop operating
systems, object-oriented
embedded systems, embedded
web applications, web sites, and
web applications.
Accountability
When you hire a firm to create the software for your hardware product, they become
contractually obligated to you to complete the services agreed upon. Early detection of
problems is critical, so set up objective measures or accountability processes to make
certain that fulfillment is going as planned. For example, Art & Logic clients are given
the opportunity to assess our work by:
Multiple approval stages with sign-off at each milestone
Re-estimates during project
Code reviews
Project reports (written or verbal)
Bug fix verification
Such processes reduce the risk of schedule slippage and allow unexpected project
events to be handled effectively. Resist the temptation to become involved too deeply;
focus on setting priorities ("what") and allow the outsource firm to bear the burden of
performance ("how").
Teamwork
Clear expectations, open communication, and accountability processes all involve a
commitment to common goals. Teamwork is critical to any successful outsourcing
relationship. As an engineering manager, you need to motivate your staff to full
cooperation and collaboration with the outsource firm you have selected. Access to
source code, bug lists, and documentation should be free of hassle or delay.
Sometimes the most constructive thing you can offer the firm is the space to meet (or
exceed!) your expectations.
In Conclusion
Partnering with software engineering experts is an effective way to build the software
capabilities you need for your hardware product. When you are working with a firm you
trust, they become a valuable extension of your in-house engineering team.
Outsourcing offers you the chance to benefit from specialized knowledge and
experience, reduced risk, and the flexibility of the firm. Like any business relationship,
outsourcing can be a great return-on-investment or a frustrating mistake. Choosing the
right service provider makes all the difference. Ultimately, the success of the
partnership depends on your commitment to clear expectations, open communication,
accountability processes, and teamwork.
Contact:
Bob Bajoras, Director of Sales
814-835-1777
bbajoras@artlogic.com
www.artlogic.com
330 North Brand Blvd.
Suite 280
Glendale CA 91203
Phone: 818-500-1933
Fax: 818-500-1533
