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How to Develop Software Better and Faster:
A Guide to Strategic Outsourcing
Art & Logic
software engineering and design
Poor project management is
responsible for more than half of
all failed projects.
Project Management
Another critical element to look for in a potential software outsourcing firm is solid
project management. Proper planning, risk management, and communication are key
factors in project success. Talented independent contractors sometimes fail to
deliver, because project management is a complex undertaking. The software
company selected must have the communication skills and methods to keep the
project on track and keep you informed.
The following list compiled by Tom Bajoras, Director of Engineering at Art & Logic,
describes some of the features of good project management by an outsource firm:
· clear, consistent communication between client and the firm, beginning
with the proposal
· status reports
· help in defining milestones
· tracking milestones and risks
· identifying the need for special help on the project
· code reviews
· functional testing
· daily builds
· verification of tasks
· constant visual inspection of the code
· documentation, including UML and/or file-level documentation, if
appropriate
· coordination of multiple parallel development paths, if the project
architecture lends itself to this
· a higher level view of the project, identifying and clearing potential
blocking conditions before they become actual blocking conditions
www.artlogic.com
330 North Brand Blvd.
Suite 280
Glendale CA 91203
Phone: 818-500-1933
Fax: 818-500-1533
