Could you share any evidence that would demonstrate the productivity, quality of work, or the impact of the engagement?
Our apps are still under development, so we have no feedback from the perspective of our client. Technically, Auxano Global Services' developer has been capable. I guide technical decisions, which she conformed with well. I've also appreciated that I was never dependent on a single developer's understanding. If she doesn't know something, there is always help from other teams. We needed assistance for PHP coding, and there was a team from Auxano Global Services who could help with that.
How did Auxano Global Services perform from a project management standpoint?
Auxano Global Services sent me different options, including estimates for starting development from scratch, or continuing existing work. Auxano Global Services was good at providing clear information in this regard, and they've stuck to the options that I've chosen, and delivered in a timely fashion.
We didn't use any project management tools; all the requirements were tracked through an Excel sheet. It's quite a large document, with 7-8 sheets in total. Defect management is managed similarly, given that we're only using one developer from Auxano Global Services. There is no need for anything more complex.
[Project update: Initially, everything worked fine and it seemed we had found long-term development partners. One small project was delivered on time, working fine. But, in a bigger project, it seemed they had lost interest after a bit.
Bugs which were being fixed were not fully fixed and introduced other bugs as testing was done very narrowly for the bug fixes. The testing team didn't pick up many defects, which were then being picked up by the client. On trying to resolve the issue, there was no responsibility being taken by Auxano. We were surprised by their behavior and responses.
They are good with small projects but are not strong with larger projects.]
What did you find most impressive about Auxano Global Services?
Auxano Global Services didn't simply say yes to everything, which is good. If I simply had requirements for an app which I needed developed, there are numerous companies ready to say yes to that.
Are there any areas Auxano Global Services could improve?
I only found a lack in communication on a couple of occasions. As soon as mentioned it, everyone available started the communication again.
What tips or recommendations could you share that might increase the likelihood of success with Auxano Global Services?
I would advise anyone in my situation, looking to outsource work abroad (including the Middle East, which offers some good developers), to be careful about whom they pick as a partner. The company needs to have a good, stable team, rather than just one good developer. Individuals tend to leave companies, so a team is key for a project's success.
For Auxano Global Services in particular, prospecting clients should remain available for discussions about testing and development, rather than simply throwing a project in their direction. If this isn't done, delivery may become a problem.
Auxano Global Services helped to bring on a large amount of interest from investors and developers to the product. They were very responsive and the management was exemplary. Treating the project with respect and enthusiasm paved the way for a successful relationship.