How do you make a project estimate? What aspects affect the final decision?
Estimation of a creating solution from a scratch, or building on an existing one, is a multistage process that is carried out by a project manager and a tech lead. There is no one-size-fits-all approach - every concept is unique.
However, there are some common factors which influence the estimate, such as project requirements, applicable technologies and both technical and non-technical risks (e.g. design mistakes or adding requirements in late phases).
What communication channels will be available during the development process?
As we work with individuals from around the globe, instant communication is our major priority. Depending on the client’s wishes and preferences, our team is contactable through audio or video conferencing, virtual meetings, messaging/texting using Skype, communication sites or email updates.
Also, the chosen communication style, including response times, is tailored to time zone differences or cultural characteristics (e.g. holidays).
How can I monitor the task execution process during development? What tools are convenient?
For the client to know how the development process is progressing, we have a specific set of tools that facilitate control over every phase (milestone). There are online platforms like Trello, Jira, Azure, Asana, among others, which allow a project manager to create ongoing tasks, set deadlines and deliver daily reports. The list above could be further expanded as the project progresses.