onboarding process

The first important step in entering a project with a new vendor is the onboarding, unless a project is highly defined where 'programmer A' delivers 'widget B' with a clear set of results where it is done for a fixed cost.
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project lifecycle

When embarking on a project there are a number of key considerations that are as important as the headline rate. An attractive rate for a software developer may seem to make huge savings on a project but there are a number of factors to consider in conjunction with the rate that may end up making the project much more expensive than the initial budget.
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knowledge...
thecitysecret doesn't claim to have all the answers, but as an outsourcing partner and working with institutions who have multiple outsourced partnerships we are able to cast some light from a practioner's perspective.

business knowledge

The most effective way of developing software is by understanding the business environment where the application is to be deployed View Info

technical skills

There is clearly an assumption that the resources have the required technical skills, this begins at the screening and selection of staff at a vendor and continues with the professional development in the relevant technical areas. View Info

other aspects

There are a number of other factors consider. Please follow the links below:

  • The value of SLAs. To the letter or the spirit of the agreement? View
  • Cultural issues View
  • Time zone importance View
  • Ongoing training and professional development of staff? View
  • Staff retention View
  • Fixed Price vs Time and Materials View