|
How does the offshore development work?
The entire end-to-end solution is delivered using the same approach and methodology as any other outsourcing project. The only difference is that specific aspects of the initiative, for example programming, are done in our Offshore Development Centre (ODC) in Sri Lanka . All other aspects of the initiative are managed domestically from our Project Office here in Ottawa , Canada . As necessary local project personnel, including our Client Manager, work directly with our clients on-site or off-site.  Top
How complex a software project can you develop?
We have done or are doing fairly complicated projects (involving 10-15 team members in a project over a period of more than a year). The number of lines of code varied anywhere between a few thousand lines of code to more than a couple of million lines (however it depends on what type of code/system you are referring to - Java, C++, C#, .NET, OO, PHP, Oracle, Visual FoxPro, VB.NET, VB6, etc.).
Top
Who owns the code at the end?
You (the client) own all code, documentation, design, conceptual ideas, the entire deliverable. We have a very strong legal process in place to assign all proprietary and ownership rights to you.
Top
Do we get the complete set of development files at the end?
You get files continuously in the development process. Once you start the project it is a very interactive process (frequent meetings and international conference calls as required). Every document, design or code generated on either side is exchanged continuously, reviewed and fine tuned. You, the client, get development files and other deliverables throughout the development cycle.
Top
How much does it cost ?
If we assign resources for on-site support , we charge separately for their travel , accommodation and meals (actuals). We generally bill you on a prefixed schedule, typically monthly or quarterly. We also do projects at a fixed cost where the requirements specifications are very clearly defined and can be frozen at some point in time. In this case we provide a fixed cost estimate after finalization of the Technical Specifications Requirements (TRS) and rigorously manage changes thereafter.
Top
What kinds of guarantee do we get that the work is well done ?
We provide a no-cost warranty period (e.g., 90 days) after final delivery for all bug-fixing, etc. Following the warranty period we offer a separate monthly , quarterly or yearly support/maintenance arrangement.
Top
Are there mechanisms to ensure deadlines, milestones and timely delivery ?
We utilize a standard project management methodology using any required tools . . We have a sign-off process for each delivery after the spec is firmed up. (We also follow version control mechanisms during our development).
Top
How do you deal with change requests once the project has started ?
This can be a contentious issue. We try to minimize changes by clearly defining and signing off on specifications for each delivery. Sign-off is also provided by the client. However, we recognize that adjustments are often necessary as not all requirements or events can be foreseen. With each and every change there is some impact on the development schedule and cost. For these instances it is essential that changes be documented and properly managed. We provide rigorous problem and change management processes which are clearly delineated in each SLA.
Top
Offshore software development strikes fear in my mind. Are you easy to reach and how fast do you respond to calls ?
We are a Canadian company, based in Ottawa , Ontario . Our Project and Client Managers operate from Ottawa and travel to client sites as required. Our contact and response service levels are defined in each SLA , including an issue escalation process. Email, telephone and pager communications with our ODC's are regular business practices. We have high speed, broadband ISDN, ADSL connections from our ODC's through which we accommodate software updates any time. We also have web-based project management tools for each page, so that each project can be monitored 24-hours and updates and bug-tracking can be done any time .
Top
Do you do software testing, verifications & QA services ?
Yes, our ODC's do a huge amount of software testing: QA, system testing, functionality & feature testing, integration testing, regression testing, web software testing, compatibility testing on various platforms, load and performance testing, test case preparations, execution of test cases, reporting, etc. Operational Acceptance Testing is typically performed on the client's premises as required.
Top
How detailed a set of requirements do you need from us ?
This is an interactive process. In one scenario: if you do not have any spec outlined we ask you to give us a minimal requirements spec (a high level description of the system). Then we start developing the formal TRS (Technical Requirements Spec) from that. Every release of this TRS document is reviewed by the client and we do modifications accordingly. Generally this process requires several weeks , depending on the size of the project. All changes and modifications are captured continuously in this exercise. On the other hand , if you already have a specification document we use that as the baseline with refinements as required. The end result is the TRS which forms part of the SLA .
Top
How can we be sure that the software you develop for us will not end-up in a competitor's hands after it is completed ?
Sri Lanka is a WTO (World Trade Organization) member and committed to protect proprietary rights and has mechanisms in place for anti-piracy. We have confidentiality agreement s with our offshore team (with each and every team member). This confidentiality is also validated on the basis of existing Sri Lankan laws.
Top
Do you provide post-development maintenance ?
Yes, we do support all software we design and deliver on the basis of separate support/maintenance contracts. This generally includes bug-tracking and fixing. Feature enhancements and developments are handled as separate contracts. We also do support and maintain software developed by other vendors.
Top
How do you deal with urgent bug fixing ?
We address bug-fixing and bug-tracking as part of our problem management process. In this system we categorize the issues on the basis of priority as defined in the SLA . All high priority issues are addressed within specified time frames as agreed to in advance by the client.
Top
How is the software supported?
When you purchase any of our software from us, you receive 30 days of free technical support. Subsequent technical support can be purchased in 6 month periods.
Top
Can I get a demo trail version system installed?
Yes, we provide fully functional 30 days demo system for evaluation purpose only. No technical support will be provided for demo users. Once you buy the license, you will not loose any of your worked data.
|
