Software Product Development Management for SMEs: 5 Best Practices

The aspects surrounding a certain issue are fully grasped for success, and the same is true for software product development management. Software product management for SMEs is deemed effective when there is strong communication among members of the technical team and stakeholders, stringent and accurate software development management, and success suits the customer's needs and expectations.

With merely the three elements mentioned above, we may discern a roughly analogous road to ultimate success. And here are the five recommended practices for software product development that you will most likely need.

The 5 Software Product Development Best Practices

1. Scope of Work matters!

In the beginning, it's simple to grasp a concept. The most important thing to remember is that if you have a clear idea of what you want to accomplish, you can create a scope of work. No matter how busy you are, take some time to write it down. 

There are many instances when a client merely has a vague idea of what they want. Once we have a deeper understanding of the product, we can begin working with our clients on defining their needs. 

2. Consider your options while selecting a vendor

Clients turn to Saigon Technology for assistance for one of two reasons: they don't have a ready-made software development room, or their in-house developers aren't putting in enough effort to tackle the project. So, our second piece of advice is for companies to exercise caution when searching for a software outsourcing company.

So, a good software outsourcing company is considered based on what criteria? You can refer to some of the following points:

• A prestigious portfolio with testimonials from current or former clients
• Feedback may appear on trustworthy business review websites
• Excellent communication and presenting abilities (In your desired language or most typically English)
• Superior project management skills
• Responsive and flexible handling

3. Plan ahead of time & stick to it

The time factor also plays an important role in the success of any project. At this phase, it becomes evident what functionality is needed to meet the objectives, how to organize it, and how to manage its ongoing development. 

For project-specific time estimates, for modest jobs, it is common to estimate completion time within a day. In the case of projects with complex natures and requirements, time estimation can take up to three working days.

Estimating the overall time of the project and of each component phase may seem like a simple task, but without it, you will not be able to commit until you have a clear estimate of its completion date. But don't worry too much, because project managers will be able to work with stakeholders to come up with realistic goals and timelines.

4. Assert the importance of all features & functions

Pay close attention to all the features and functions that the software developers will implement to keep a close eye on whether the phase is done according to your wishes and requirements.  It's up to you as a corporate customer to keep an eye on the team's progress and give them feedback through a "minimum viable product."

Making an MVP, or minimum viable product is critical in the early stages of a project. An MVP is the simplest way to get your product in front of clients without having to develop a complicated alternative. If the MVP does not please you after evaluating it, you can simply alter your product. And from there, the produced features will always better meet your needs and desires, saving both parties' time, the team's effort, and your money.  

5. Constantly learn about competitors & customers

A product's true worth can only be determined by using its insights. As a result, for software outsourcing companies to give their corporate clients accurate and efficient advice, they must have good relationships with customers, partners, and understand the market dynamics of important sectors.

Furthermore, prior to developing firm plans, understanding and recording the insights of partners, customer service habits, or competitive information plays a role. It is critical that we be able to swiftly catch up with other various features. Then you may decide whether or not this feature is required, and if so, how to enhance it.

Conclusion

When it comes to large-scale or sophisticated software-related projects, it is frequently tough for SMEs and startups to manage on their own. Most of our startup clients typically have a few techies on board, but it is often insufficient. Business owners often prioritize operating the company and servicing their clients above other side occupations. As a result, they try to make software products with the help of other outsourcing firms in Asia.

Let Saigon Technology, the leading software development company in Vietnam, handle your requests and desires. With a team of 350+ software engineers in the top 1% of talent in Vietnam and 10+ years of experience serving in the company's IT industry, we are always confident that we will be the right choice. When it comes to software product development, corporate clients are the most important.

Contact us right now for a free quote and consultation!