Software development outsourcing - everything you need to know
The usual case scenario goes like this:
You have a big idea for a software product, and you’re eager to bring it to life.
At the beginning of a project, there are so many unknowns:
How long will it take?
How many people do you need?
Should you even hire a full team internally?
You may not yet have a dedicated software department, so building one from scratch without experience can feel overwhelming.
Building quality software requires specialized skills and a significant amount of time and resources. As you read about extended teams, dedicated teams, and staff augmentation, it’s easy to get lost in options.
If you’re starting a project from the ground up and want to make sure you’re approaching it in the best way possible, outsourcing software development and adopting a lean startup methodology is often the wisest path forward—and here’s why:
Software development outsourcing is a strategic solution to get your project up and running by partnering with experienced developers, designers, and engineers without the need to build an entire team in-house.
It’s ideal for startups needing an MVP to test their concept or for established companies looking to transform or scale their digital solutions efficiently.
No matter if you’re in need of a fast-track product launch or tackling a complex digital overhaul, outsourcing helps you focus on what matters most—your core business.
Benefits of software development outsourcing
There are many benefits to outsourcing software development, but we know you want us to get straight to the point:
Focus on your core business
When outsourcing software development, you have the luxury of staying focused on what you do best - the business.
Let us handle the technical complexities while you concentrate on growth and strategy.
Cost efficiency
Outsourcing lets you avoid the cost and overhead of hiring and maintaining an in-house team.
Instead, you get high-quality expertise as needed, maximizing your budget and resources.
No micromanagement needed
Our team works independently, but you’re informed every step of the way.
With project managers and team leads on board, you won’t need to manage every little aspect of the project; we keep everything on track and update you regularly in every project stage.
What to consider before outsourcing software development?
The right partner
Choosing a partner is critical to the success of your project. You want a team with both technical expertise and an understanding of your industry.
Look for a partner who can communicate, understand your goals, and wholeheartedly believe in your vision.
Proven success stories
Results speak volumes. Here are some examples of our work and the value we’ve brought to our clients:
AvidNote
We developed an AI-powered research tool used by over 70,000 researchers monthly, improving productivity and collaboration in the academic community. Read more.
Meela Health
Our team brought an online therapy platform from concept to MVP, helping secure €2.6M in seed funding to support their growth and impact on mental health. Read more.
Cargotec-Kalmar
For this logistics giant, we redefined digital operations, boosting overall efficiency by 105% through a comprehensive overhaul. Read more.
Budget: maximizing value through the B-M-L cycle
Let’s say you approach us with a budget and an idea for an MVP. Many agencies might take your requirements and quote you a cost based on delivering a set of features.
We approach things differently.
We believe that building an MVP is not just about “building everything” you initially imagined—it’s about testing your product’s potential in the market.
The Build-Measure-Learn (B-M-L) Cycle is our core approach. We work through iterative cycles, testing and refining your product based on real user feedback.
Instead of blowing the entire budget on one version, we focus on several B-M-L cycles, learning with each one to create something your customers will love.
Our process starts with your product hypothesis, and then we work together to determine the simplest way to test it. Maybe a visual prototype is all you need to start.
Perhaps there’s an existing solution that could help validate your idea.
By using your budget strategically across cycles, we gain valuable insights and increase the likelihood of creating a product that truly resonates with your audience.
You can read more about our way of working compared to traditional agencies in this article.
Company culture – a perfect fit
Outsourcing isn’t just about hiring developers; it’s about finding a partner whose team aligns with your values and way of working.
We believe in curiosity, commitment, and open communication.
Our development based in Bosnia and Herzegovina is adaptable and eager to understand your business, and we’ve previously succeeded in it with our partners from Scandinavia, the DACH region, and the Middle East.
With each project, we strive to create synergy between our team and yours, so you’re not just getting technical expertise—you’re getting people who genuinely care about your success.
Ready to bring your idea to life?
If you’re ready to bring your vision to reality with a product your customers love, let’s talk. Reach out to see how we can use the B-M-L approach to help you build a product that’s truly valuable.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
Is software development outsourcing expensive?
Outsourcing is often more affordable than in-house development, especially for specific or temporary projects. You get access to a skilled team without the ongoing costs of hiring and maintaining full-time employees.
Is using in-house developers better than outsourcing?
It depends on your needs. In-house teams work well for companies with long-term projects and evolving requirements. Outsourcing, however, offers a flexible, efficient, and cost-effective option for MVPs, startups, or companies looking to explore new ideas without a long-term commitment.
How do I know how big of a team I need?
Sometimes, clients come in with a specific team size in mind—like, “I need a team of X developers, Y designers, and Z testers.”
While it’s great to know what you think you need, we go beyond just fulfilling that request. We question whether that’s truly the right setup for your project. Our approach isn’t just about putting people on a project; it’s about using resources as wisely as possible.
We work with you to assess your needs carefully, so you get a team optimized for efficiency and success, not just filling seats.
How long will the project take?
Timelines depend on the project’s size and complexity. For example, developing an MVP typically takes 1-3 months, whereas larger, more complex projects may take anywhere from 6 months to a year. We can provide a more specific timeline after discussing the details of your project.
How often will I receive updates?
Our communication frequency is tailored to your needs. We’re available for daily syncs if required, alongside weekly meetings to go over progress and monthly reviews to assess the overall project direction. This setup ensures you’re always in the loop and can provide input.
What if I want to change something mid-project?
We’re flexible and adaptive when it comes to changes. Development isn’t always linear, and new ideas or shifts in focus are common. We’ll work with you to adjust and overcome any challenges that come up mid-project, ensuring your vision remains intact.
Do you provide post-launch support?
Absolutely! We understand that post-launch is often when most users start engaging with your product, so it’s a critical period. Our team is here to provide support, handle updates, and ensure everything runs smoothly so your product can thrive in the market.
What tools and platforms do you use?
We use various tools, platforms, and methodologies depending on the specific needs of each project. If you’d like to know more about our tech stack or discuss how we approach projects, please schedule a free call with us. We’d be happy to go over our tools, processes, and past projects with you—no strings attached.
Project
To increase profits, speed up, and simplify the process for Kalmar, we at ZenDev created a mobile app that digitalized and automated processes.
