5 Biggest Mistakesin Staff Aug andHow to Avoid Them
When it comes to software development, finding the right talent can be tough. Many companies are turning to tech-based staff augmentation firms to support their software initiatives. With staff augmentation, tech talent can be sourced for a project on a short-term or long-term basis.
However, after consulting with organizations ranging from smaller startups to larger enterprises, we’ve noticed some big mistakes companies can make when choosing a staff augmentation provider for their tech initiatives. Here we share these blunders as well as some tips to avoid making them.
Mistake #1: Undervaluing Trust and Overvaluing Optimism
Too often, companies can get swept away by vendors who are overly optimistic. They make it seem like every idea is a fantastic one. Yet, this “over-optimism” can be the number one killer of software projects.
Instead, staff augmentation providers should be transparent about their capabilities and not simply tell you what you want to hear. This includes honesty about the feasibility to execute your ideas and the real costs and time involved to make them happen. As you screen for a provider, do not simply ask them “if” they can get the work done. Also make sure you understand “how” they will make it happen.
Mistake #2: Jumping Right into Placing Development Talent
A common mistake companies can make is choosing a staff augmentation partner that jumps right into placing development talent. But as startup guru Steve Blank likes to say — unless you catch lightning in a bottle, you’re going to need a plan. So, consider yourself warned: a major red flag is when a staff augmentation provider who doesn’t have project specs simply jumps in and says, “Let’s get started.” Instead, the provider should collaborate with you to fully understand your project needs and make talent recommendations accordingly.
Look for a staff augmentation provider who brings a “big picture” perspective to your project. For example, they should conduct a proper kickoff with you to fully align on goals and timing. Then, they can make appropriate staffing recommendations. For example, they may suggest holding off on placing development talent before a proper design phase has been executed.
Mistake #3: Optimizing the Wrong Things at the Wrong Time
Many developers or agencies will pitch on price only. While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, you need solid experience to build a strong foundation.
That’s why it’s critical to consider software development partners beyond just price. You can optimize for cost later, but make sure you focus on quality and expertise at the start. For example, senior developers may be needed to launch new software. Then, junior developers could be leveraged to sustain efforts over the long term. The right staff augmentation provider will look at your unique conditions to make placement suggestions rather than only pitching on price. So, make sure you understand how they support clients long term to best optimize resources.
Mistake #4: Failing to Establish Success Milestones
When it comes to tech talent, a big mistake is not establishing success milestones. As you bring people on for a project, you must set up established criteria from the onset. This helps to avoid a “grand reveal” scenario — which happens when a developer builds out software for a long time only for the client to realize it does not meet their standards or specifications.
To avoid this mistake, work with a staff augmentation partner who helps to establish success milestones and facilitates regular check-ins. This can keep everyone on the same page and help ensure the project stays on track.
Mistake #5: Incorrectly Onboarding Developers
Often, companies want software developers to begin their work quickly and therefore skip any type of onboarding. But to hit the ground running, incoming developers should have a clear understanding of the expectations for their role. On their first day, they should understand the plan for their first 30 days on the job and feel supported to meet outlined milestones.
Remember that a confident developer produces better results. This confidence comes down to the details. Do they have the tools, training, support, and resources needed to thrive on the job? For better results, partner with a staff augmentation provider who supports developers with onboarding and beyond.
Bypassing These Blunders
By avoiding the mistakes discussed here, you can have more successful software initiatives. And we are here to help. At Shrine Development, we specialize in matching companies with the right tech talent. From software developers to QA analysts to DevOps leaders, we connect top industry talent with the companies who need them.
Along with our robust screening processes, we provide onboarding support, project management, career mentorship, and more. We offer a risk-free, money-back guarantee for the first 30 days of placed talent.
If you’re interested in learning more about our staff augmentation services, schedule a free strategy session here.
