Not All Software Developers Are Alike
Like all professional services, the experience of those you’re hiring is everything.
Look for shops that have been building applications for more than 10 years.
That way you’re avoiding dot-bomb refugees.
Also, make sure developing applications is the only thing they do.
The only exception is if they offer development training or they otherwise sell their expertise.
Ask about the average tenure of all the employees.
Three years is a good mark, and while you’re asking, check the average amount of software
and IT experience of the senior staff. Nothing less than 15 years is acceptable.
Your reputation is on the line, so you need consultants that have been good enough to thrive in technology’s ups and downs.
In addition to experience, look for third party credibility.
Easy ways to verify this are testimonials (with names and companies)
from their customers and the vendors who license the languages they use.
Also, look for published articles and books. Editors don’t risk publishing bad writers,
so if your consultant has passed muster here, they are probably good at what they do.
Finally, troll the list of speakers at big name developer events like Microsoft’s Tech Ed or local vendor events.
PDSA presents at Tech Ed, VSLive and many other major conferences each year.