Successful Software Development and Intellectual Property

Ideas for great software solutions are born, more times than not, out of frustration.  Whether the current software offering is just not meeting necessary standards or if no software exists for a particular function, you have decided that you are going to attempt to create the next great piece of software.

While your skills at programming and code writing might be on par with the best in the industry, did you know that, unless protected, your intellectual property and hard work are up for grabs as soon as your product hits the shelves.  In other situations, you might be asked to develop particular software for a company or department.  If the proper steps aren’t taken to protect your product, as soon as you hand the information over to your client, it is no longer exclusively yours.

The best software developer in the world doesn’t stand a chance if clients or customers who buy their software are able to copy it and distribute it freely.  This is where it is important to have clearly defined terms of use.  When developing software with a specific client or company in mind, don’t be fooled into thinking that the software will be handled honestly once it leaves your hands.  Prior to any commencement on the new software, make sure that the client signs a contract. Not just any old contract though.  A software developer’s contract should contain these essential points:

•    Clearly defined ownership of intellectual property
•    Limitation of liability regarding the software
•    Project scope (Timelines, Extent of Software Development, Etc.)
•    Payment Structure and Schedule
•    Uses of the Software

While each contract and software development job will be different, the fact remains that protecting your intellectual property, and ultimately, your end product is of the highest importance.  Contracts for software developers as well as independent contractors in other fields can all be found by visiting www.ContractEdge.com.

Pros and Cons of Outsourcing New Software Needs

I work as a web designer.  Occasionally, I do some simple scripting and coding for web design, but that doesn’t qualify me to write software.  When a client needs something specific that needs more than I’m capable of, I call in the outsourcers.  Outsourcing saves me time and money.  Just like using my services saves my clients time and money, using a software developer saves me time and usually makes me money.

Be careful when choosing a software firm to do your outsourcing.  I’ve found that offshore developers are charge less per hour for their services.  Using offshore developers can reduce costs, but it can also open a Pandora’s Box. Issues, such as getting projects completed exactly in the manner specified, can occur due to language barriers.  Software development is not a simple task and adding additional complicating factors lengthens the process.  When choosing an offshore firm, be sure to check not only their portfolio and experience, but also their English skills and payment methods and options. Always look into what kind of assurances there are that you will a) own the work b) will have recourse if your project is not done on time or properly.

In my experience, using an onshore software firm increases profit.  While you are most likely going to have to pay more on the per hour basis, the number of hours it takes for projects to be completed from start to finish is less.

Whether onshore or offshore, outsourcing software development will save you money.  Many of my colleagues use offshore developers regularly.  Personally, I prefer onshore developers, but I have used a few offshore firms to successfully complete some projects.

Ways to Ensure Payment for Independent Contractors

You have a prospective client or a project on the line and now all you have to do is close the deal.  How do you bid the project out?  What is the best way to quote a rate?  There might not be a 100% surefire method, but I have a few techniques I have found helpful.

A lot of my bidding and rate quoting is based on personal knowledge and proximity to my prospective employer.  When I am able to meet people face-to-face, I am usually able to gauge their interest in working with me and their general budgetary concerns.  When I work with long-distance clients or with clients via internet, I usually have to spell my rates out more clearly and my closing rate isn’t nearly as great as my in-person clients.

Working as an independent contractor, I always ask for a certain percentage upfront on all jobs over $500.  I generally ask for one-third upfront.  That just ensures that my client is serious, fully engaged in the process, and it makes it next to impossible for client not to pay.

Once I have completed the first phase of proofs, I usually collect the second third of the project.  I have found this makes setting appointments with clients to review their project much easier.  It also makes it difficult for clients to take my design work and develop it themselves.

After the project is completed to the client’s satisfaction, I give them the final bill with any and all necessary corrections.  It is not uncommon for clients to initially want to put in some “sweat” equity on their project.  Very often when it comes time for clients to deliver their end of the bargain, they do not.  That is why I have to correct their final bill.  I always promise to keep their final bill within ten percent of the original estimate unless I have received their written consent.

As an independent contractor, I use these steps if I am billing out on an hourly rate or for a fixed rate.  I find it useful to estimate the number of hours it will take me to complete an entire job.  This is helpful for the client so they know what to expect and it helps me to budget my time.

Nailing down your client’s budgetary concerns and needs as soon as possible can be extremely helpful.  If your client is asking for something that cannot be achieved within their intended budget, you need to either decide to take a hit on the project or let them know.  Being open and honest is always the best policy.  Part of being open is being willing to find new, creative ways to complete a project within your client’s budget.

Technology Fields for Independent Contractors

When I decided to throw myself out there as an independent IT contractor, I had big dreams of tons of clients.  Originally, I started out as a web designer.  About two days in, I decided to add “Web Developer” to my title.  As time has progressed, I have become aware of different opportunities that weren’t available to me as a mere web designer.

Depending on what degrees or certificates that you hold, your opportunities as an IT contractor will be greatly influenced.  The same can be said about what opportunities your work experience and portfolio will bring you.  Having a well-prepared portfolio is more important than having every possible degree or certificate.  Degrees and certificates show your level of schooling.  Your portfolio shows your actual abilities.  Remember to keep your portfolio current and make sure to stock it with your best work.  Also, make sure that every job you take on looks as good, if not better, than your best portfolio piece.

In today’s world of outsourcing and downsizing, corporations are turning to contractors and consultants whenever they can.  This is where your vital experience and abilities come in.  Why would you limit yourself to a specific category like I did?  Maybe because you see a large income possibility, maybe that is the only place where your talents lie, or more likely, that is the only talent you have thought about capitalizing on so far.

IT contractors are always needed in the vast world of the Internet.  Web design cannot be accurately described without breaking into multiple categories.  You can design e-commerce sites, simple single-page sites, complex content management sites, and the list could go on forever.  The best way to go in the web design/development field is to find a niche, develop a portfolio and earn a good reputation.  Having an extensive clientele gives prospective clients peace of mind and it also pulls in lots of referrals.

Graphic design is another great field to find contract work in.  Companies always need graphics for business cards, letter head or their annual newsletter and employing a full-time graphic artist doesn’t always make financial sense.  That is where you, the contractor, come into play.  You cost less than yearly in-house graphic artists and you always deliver on time.  Not to mention the fact that graphic work is great to bill out to customers.  You can make graphics as detailed as possible or you can make simple, less detailed, less expensive graphics to fit a tight budget.

Programming and coding are great way for contract work.  When companies or individuals find themselves needing a specific application, be it for web or non-web use, hiring a contractor will most likely save them money.  Unless you run a software development company, having coders on staff just doesn’t make sense.