Software consulting is becoming more popular. But there are still some common misconceptions surrounding the role, consultancy brings valuable insight in many different ways. Consultants are now more flexible and can seamlessly fit into any development environment, but what myths are still holding some back from taking on a consultant?
Consulting Compromises Data Security
Good consultants have high professional integrity. They respect all aspects of a business and recognize what their role entails, undermining this trust between the company and themselves compromises any future work.
Consultancy providers gain a lot of business from word of mouth, and prioritizing customers privacy is top of their list. You and the consultant should agree on specific requirements regarding data and other security protocols, a non-disclosure agreement is best practice and legally binding. You can enquire about any security certifications they have themselves too, providing peace of mind for both parties.
Consultancy Doesn’t Fit DevOps or Agile
Consultants do bring their own methods and workflow plans, but this is only in place as a fallback. Good consultancy providers are flexible and can align themselves with your company’s work methodologies.
Consultants who stick to their own ways and fail to incorporate themselves correctly into the workflow in place off-set any progress that could be made. Leading consultants understand all workflow practices and will demonstrate the flexibility to integrate effectively. The most advantageous traits of a consultant are being client-focused and excellent listening, this along with experience makes them able to fulfil their role effectively.
Only Large Companies Use Consulting Services
Consultants are seen as too expensive or don’t want to work with smaller teams. In fact it’s the opposite; consultants can be there for numerous reasons and carry out their role perfectly. Hiring an in-house employee to achieve the same goal can be a lengthy process and waste time. It can also end up costing more in the long term, whereas a consultant can accelerate the process reducing costs along the way.
Consultants are there to bring expertise and benefit even small companies. Large enterprises already acknowledge the benefits which is why they are sought after. Consultants bring the experience and specific skills for a project that can be difficult to obtain.
Consulting is a One-time Deal
Nothing says that consultancy has to be for a whole project or even stop after a specific task is complete. You decide what fits your project and time-line like recurring, intermittent or ongoing consulting. You might want to seek consultancy for a certain part of a project, but later down the line discover you want to seek their assistance again.
Once a consultant understands your requirements and the objective at hand they can provide strategic advice at any point. Staying on top and ensuring critical milestones are met is what matters. Seeking the expertise of an experienced consultant will help with that, and no matter what stage of development can provide a competitive edge.
To learn more about consulting services for software and associated technology contact us at Axis Software Dynamics. Our experience debunks all the myths and makes the results you want a reality.
