After a couple of years of being employed, you now feel that it’s time to be your own boss. Not that the current working conditions are unbearable. If anything, you are grateful that you got a chance to be in a leading IT company. However, it has always been your desire to work for yourself. All you needed was a stepping stone and this firm gave you enough exposure. The supervisor in your department played a big role in helping you reach your career milestones? He warmly welcomed you as an inexperienced intern and later recommended you for employment. Over the years, a solid friendship forged and he’s proud of this big move. Here are tips on How To Form A Successful Software Development Team.
Everything has its starting point and having the right footing on a new path is crucial. If you have just begun your own business in software development, you know that you can’t do it all on your own. The launch of a new application takes the effort of a dedicated team. These behind the scene players spend hours on their screens as they work on a client’s order. Once the customer is satisfied, it always a victory for everyone involved.
If the chef uses the right ingredients in their correct proportions, the food will be sweet. Similarly, a functional application is the work of an efficient software development team. However, not anyone who claims to have studied IT in college qualifies. The complexity of tasks, the availability of funds and customers’ deadlines often determine the team’s size. Before we can discuss what to look for, we’ll first go over the people who are involved in the software development process.
Team members
The collaborative efforts of each individual are valuable for overall success. Below are some of the team players.
Product manager
There has to be someone who oversees the smooth running of the process. This is the role of a project manager. He discusses with members the roadmap to success to ensure they all know what is expected of them. He also communicates the features of the software and how it will benefit customers.
Business Unit manager
Goals are excellent indicators of progress. If they are set and met, it means that things are flowing according to plan. A business unit manager sees to it that the goals are achieved. He not only initiates the project but also explains the vision to all members.
Technical lead
He is a link between the technical support and the business aspect of the project. His work is to provide the project structure and implement the best coding techniques.
Project manager
For every gig received, the team works around a stipulated budget. The project manager ensures work is completed within the set time and with the allocated resources. If more funds are needed, he is the one to be consulted. Additionally, he schedules meetings and offers suggestions on which areas need improvement.
Developers
They are the brains behind software development. They handle much of the coding which provides the skeleton of the app. The keyed-in instructions determine the functionality and features of the software. Popular programming languages used include Java and Python.
Front-end developers focus on the visible aspects while back-end developers work on the software’s building blocks. Their roles are interdependent for the functionality of the product. In case of any challenges, they’ll inform the technical lead.
Designers
They ensure the software is user-friendly and attractive. They are either UX or UI designers and they work hand in hand. For easy and error-free app navigation design by customers, the UX includes simple features like an accessible menu bar, prompts and swiping options. The UI designers work on the software’s layout for example templates, color and graphics.
Quality assurance
When the product is finally completed, it’s not immediately sent to the client. Some tests have to be run to confirm whether the software meets the needed criteria. Not only are customer specifications taken into consideration but also the accuracy in programming. Bugs and glitches are detected and eliminated.
Great! Now that you are aware of the roles of each individual, does it mean you are ready to hire? No. Another vital hurdle awaits. You have to look for individuals possessing some key qualities for a competent software development team. What can you look out for?
Experience
The longer one has been in the job, the broader his knowledge. The complexities of software development need professionals who are well versed in the field of IT. They will produce quality products that will satisfy your customers.
Critical thinking
When clients outline their needs, it’s up to the team to develop suitable software. Team members will need to brainstorm ideas and strategies on what to create. Critical thinkers will analyze the different suggestions presented, discussing the pros and cons until consensus is reached. When problems arise in the development process, proactive members will offer practical solutions that will deal with the situation, therefore, keeping the project on track.
Communication
What is a team without communication? It’s in fact the lifeline of any human interactions. The free flow of information between members leads to an exchange of ideas that enhances progress. Individuals should also be able to communicate clearly both in written and verbal forms. As the boss, be approachable so that employees can easily air their concerns. They could have useful tips too you know.
The bottom line
Whenever you undertake a new venture, ensure you have a firm foundation. This enables your business will grow and flourish and later withstand cut-throat competition in the market. Hiring the right people for each job is very important. Some tasks can be performed by generalists. For example, the business manager can double up as the product manager. On the other hand, developers have to be specialists. Remember too, that It’s not all about the technical skills but also how well they relate with others. All these factors have to be considered.
Undoubtedly, you want a productive software development team. The tips we’ve discussed will help you start on the right path. Realistically, you’ll face various challenges but hey! Who said things would be easy?