Overwhelmed by the demands of IT? Don’t worry, help is on the way with Nearshore partnerships

Overwhelmed by the demands of IT? Don’t worry, help is on the way with Nearshore partnerships

by | Feb 17, 2023 | Software Development, Successful Outsourcing

Curated by: Sergio A. Martínez

It makes sense to say that a well-budgeted IT department with enough resources is critically important for any business, mid-level and beyond. If your IT people are equipped to do their job, everyone can take advantage of top-quality technologies like enterprise-level systems, expertly managed networks, and secure cloud computing that could push productivity and effectiveness through the roof. And obviously, these benefits flow right down to the bottom line. It’s hard to overestimate just how vital a fully staffed, adequately funded IT infrastructure is for improving your company’s performance. Yeah, we’ll say it: IT is the cornerstone of modern business, and ensuring it’s properly managed is your key to success.

Overwhelmed by the demands of IT? Don’t worry, help is on the way with Nearshore partnerships

However, for a lot of IT professionals out there, the reality is… different. Small IT departments often face some daunting challenges, ranging from the increased focus on personnel and operations to the escalating pressure of project management, trying to constantly do more with fewer resources. Things like juggling multiple tasks with limited staff can lead to a lot of frustration, and implementing new technologies and systems as quickly as possible can become quite Sisyphean. Tech advancements, after all, happen at such a breakneck speed that it can be hard for SMEs to stay on top of them all. That combined with a minimal budget for technology and limited training opportunities, these teams often find themselves struggling to leverage new software and solutions into their daily operations. 

The result is a constant battle to work faster and smarter. The lack of resources (from a budget standpoint to personnel) can cause a lot of issues getting projects off the ground or implementing new approaches, and finding innovative ways to keep everyone on the same page is a challenge if the person responsible for IT wants operations to run smoothly. All this without mentioning the abundance of issues and complaints that plague the IT team working in this kind of environment—from dealing with printer malfunctions to handling user requests, this job might seem never-ending. So yeah, a lot of concerns need to be addressed if an IT department is going to remain effective at delivering services efficiently. So, what to do?

Seeking help

Overwhelmed by the demands of IT? Don’t worry, help is on the way with Nearshore partnerships

Convincing management to invest in software development partners and other resources can be tricky for a small IT department, considering the financial constraints they typically face. The key, however, is explaining the long-term value of bringing in some extra help. A team not only can save money by having development partners offload specific non-core tasks, but also will save time by utilizing that same expertise in areas with shortages in talent. To this end, outlining exactly how this support would impact the bottom line is of utmost importance when making your case before the correct people. If management sees there’s an immediate improvement to both resources and output, their support becomes easier to secure.

So, if an IT department wants to get the attention of management and convince them to invest in the technology necessary to make this work, there are a few steps they can take to increase their chances. First, compiling a persuasive presentation highlighting the areas where you feel these new investments will bring the greatest return is a great start. Sharing any positive outcomes from similar projects you’ve seen in other organizations that demonstrate cost/benefit could also work. Finally, building relationships with stakeholders and discussing use cases within your organization so they can visualize how it will have real, tangible benefits for the company is your trump card. With a combination of proactive research, clever business reasoning, and solid data, any IT department can make a solid case for investing in the correct talent, and adequate resources.

However, what kind of help should you look for? Well, if you want to see an immediate change for the organization you work for, Nearshore partnerships can be an incredible option for small IT departments seeking software solutions done quickly and well. By hiring a Nearshore partner to build software for you, whether it’s custom-built or COTS, the development process can be much smoother and faster—no more worrying about the hassle of finding your own qualified engineers, who then have to learn systems from scratch. Nearshore partnerships also provide great access to outside talent, giving your team all the support they need while avoiding language barriers and closing the time zone gap to synchronize every effort during the project. And with cost-effectiveness being another major perk of Nearshoring, you’ll quickly see why it’s an unbeatable option when it comes time to revitalize your IT department and bring the solutions that your organization needs.

Finding help

“You teach and learn at the same time”: The value of an internal project for a Nearshore company like Scio

If you already decided to work with a Nearshore partner, and you need to convince management of what a good idea this is, making the right choice will be critical for success. Nearshoring can help scale operations and reduce the burden on your own team without sacrificing quality, that much is clear, but when looking for a partner, it’s important to align on culture, core values, and technical capabilities. 

To that end, it’s important to do your research and make sure that you’re working with a team with a business culture that matches that of the organization you work for. Take some time to ask questions about their processes, their continuity plans, and what makes them stand out from other Nearshore contenders—this will help narrow down your list of potential candidates, but also make sure you know their approach to collaboration, sharing of knowledge, and how communication and trust are usually built between teams. You should also ascertain whether or not they have experience dealing with existing infrastructure and whether they are properly certified in every framework and tool that best suits your plans. ast but not least, it’s sensible to check that the individuals involved have the necessary skill sets needed by your company, if they are open to learning and growing their skills, and ensure that there is clear communication between them and you throughout the whole process. Letting this kind of effort into developing a strong relationship with a Nearshore provider will pay off when it’s time to make decisions and get results delivered.

“The benefit of connecting with a Nearshore development partner for a small IT department trying to implement a new software solution cannot be understated”, says Rod Aburto, Service Delivery Manager, and Partner, at Scio. “It’s more efficient, cost-effective, and hassle-free compared to hiring additional employees or plain outsourcing. By engaging in Nearshore development, you or your team will have direct access to experts who have infrastructure and resources right on hand, so you can trust that any implementations or changes will go smoothly, without worrying about time zone differences or language barriers. And you can be certain that the process won’t stretch out of control as it often does when using offshore solutions. Given their efficiency, working with Nearshore solutions means less stress on budget concerns allowing the Head of IT to find the best route forward for their company.”

In the case of the best software development in Mexico, Scio offers expertise and technical know-how to engage and deliver the best software solutions around, with a collaborative approach that can augment any project from the get-go. We know that finding the right software solutions for a small IT department can often be a daunting task, and limited resources and staff make it difficult to find solutions quickly and efficiently in an organization of any size. That’s why the Scio approach to Nearshore partnerships remains the best option to bridge this gap, providing efficient IT solutions developed with experienced developers ready to seamlessly integrate with any workflow. Legacy systems and other barriers to innovation in companies that traditionally don’t do software can build these partnerships to deliver a wealth of knowledge and experience, allowing for quick scalability and turnaround times—ideal for teams who are looking for solutions with minimal risk. By having dedicated back-end support, location flexibility, reasonable cost savings, and considerable expertise available at the same time, Nearshore partnerships are one of the best options for any small IT department that needs quality software fast. At Scio, help is on the way, with all the skills you need.

The Key Takeaways

  • IT is the cornerstone of many mid-sized companies and beyond, but if software is not the priority, budget, and resources might not be the best.
  • Ideally, the IT department of any organization would have enough resources to implement any innovative solution that might make work and productivity more efficient, so alternatives should be considered.
  • In that sense, Nearshore development partners might be the answer for a small IT department, offering the flexibility and scalability necessary for any kind of budget and support.
  • However, you should make sure that the business culture matches your organization, as this will guarantee that any partnership and collaboration effort will yield the best outcomes.

Scio is an established Nearshore software development company based in Mexico that specializes in providing high-quality, cost-effective technologies for pioneering tech companies. We have been building and mentoring teams of engineers since 2003 and our experience gives us access not only to the knowledge but also the expertise needed when tackling any project. Get started today by contacting us about your project needs – We have teams available to help you achieve your business goals. Get in contact today!

“You teach and learn at the same time”: The value of an internal project for a Nearshore company like Scio

“You teach and learn at the same time”: The value of an internal project for a Nearshore company like Scio

by | Feb 16, 2023 | Scio

Curated by: Sergio A. Martínez

Nearshore development companies are full of creative, innovative minds eager to take on new challenges on a daily basis, expanding their skill set and putting it to good use developing innovations that benefit us all. And although the main objective of these types of companies is mainly collaborating with a variety of clients to bring their ideas to fruition, many organizations like Scio sometimes also develop their own products internally for many reasons.

“You teach and learn at the same time”: The value of an internal project for a Nearshore company like Scio

For example, the company might have a good idea for a product that could solve a demand or offer a solution to a specific problem that no client currently is trying to tackle, or maybe it’s a good idea to have a project that developers of all levels could contribute to, or keep busy while new clients arrive. Sometimes you even have a developer tinkering with an idea that is good enough to develop into a business idea that might benefit all in the long run. 

In any case, internal projects give these developers a chance to think outside the box and work on something other than client-facing products, allowing them to stretch their legs and try new technologies and processes in a sandbox environment without risking any customer data or the reputation of their company. These kinds of ventures could also help identify areas of improvement within their existing codebase, discover untapped features or improvements that could benefit their overseas customers, be used to hone developers’ skills, and even refine the collaboration dynamics inside the company. All in all, when it comes to software, having an internal project can be a great asset for a company of any size. 

In the case of Scio, this project is Pidamosde.com, a subscription-based, a platform that enables restaurants to implement a digital solution for their sales processes by offering a digital ordering system that takes care of card payments and virtual client queueing, among other things, simplifying the whole ordering process. In other words, PidamosDe helps these businesses expand their client base by having a pretty convenient and hassle-free option to order food through the Internet, which didn’t seem like a realistic option for most of them before it.

However, beyond offering a new solution to a key demographic of the restaurant business that many apps, like UberEats or Rappi, tend to ignore, or be too pricey or inconvenient to use, PidamosDe was also a learning experience for the people at Scio since its launch, with lots of interesting hurdles and learning experiences for everyone involved. For this reason, we spoke with Samuel González Lunar, a developer that has been part of the PidamosDe team for the best part of last year, to obtain a first-hand account of how these internal projects are managed, how they become what they are, and what they offer in return for the people in charge of bringing them to life.

Too many cooks spoil the app

“You teach and learn at the same time”: The value of an internal project for a Nearshore company like Scio

Software development projects can quickly become bogged down with too many cooks in the kitchen. Without clear direction, team members’ efforts can be scattered, leading to wasted time from working on duplicated tasks or conflicting objectives. In addition, larger teams sometimes make it difficult for everyone’s voices to be heard, leading to resentment between members and an overall lack of cohesion. Too much input from multiple parties can also cause decision paralysis within a project, resulting in extended project duration or scope creep that could compromise key deadlines. And certainly, once he joined the project, Samuel had to make sure everything worked properly. In his words…

“Something that can get complicated is keeping a standard on the programming methodology employed on the project, as well as how to test the app. Because beyond developers, many different QA people have been involved over the years, it’s easy to lose track of all the changes made to the codebase over time. We are getting there, though, establishing a new code-review standard to make development easier in the future.”

After all, with too many people working on the same thing, it can be very difficult to have everyone pull in the same direction, and everyone’s time is stretched as they attempt to organize tasks for all the cooks in the kitchen. Software projects are complicated enough even without these issues; having ‘too many cooks spoil the broth’ will almost certainly cause headaches along the way. Samuel is certainly very familiar with cases like this, as he remembered one such challenge that was affecting one of the most important features of a platform like PidamosDe:

“We once had a bug that stopped notifications from reaching the customers. So, as it was, we needed to solve that pretty quickly. The main issue, however, was that the person who wrote the notification code was no longer at Scio, so he wasn’t available to explain what or how he did it. And the necessary documentation wasn’t around either, so I had to research and review the whole program closely to find the error and develop a solution easily and effectively. Once we did that, we had a patch ready to go in less than a day.”

However, these kinds of challenges notwithstanding, internal projects can provide a fun and creative outlet for the team. Not only do they add value to the company, but they also give staff a chance to learn new skills, collaborate on interesting ideas and work together on something that isn’t need-specific. It’s also an opportunity for the company to measure its progress and performance, by giving an in-depth look at how well its processes are working. All of this leads to greater efficiency and productivity, helping the company reach its goals easier than ever before.

Finding the collaboration groove

“You teach and learn at the same time”: The value of an internal project for a Nearshore company like Scio

Developing software requires a tremendous amount of collaboration among different teams and individuals. As a software development company, it’s important to implement the right processes that foster collaboration across the board. Internal projects give a great chance to refine the way team members communicate with each other while also allowing them to become more efficient. Carving out time for an internal project allows your software development company to test out new ideas and approaches without risking the resources or reputation of an external customer’s project — plus your team gets the chance to sharpen their skills too! Internal projects offer a great advantage, providing a safe environment to experiment with new tactics, which can then be incorporated into ongoing projects.

“The Scio way of collaboration is based on mutual support, where everyone can bring you help, and you can respond, which makes collaboration a lot easier and more agile than any other. You teach and learn at the same time, which is incredibly valuable for your professional growth”, explains Samuel. “There have been cases when new people joined the PidamosDe project and used protocols that weren’t part of our standards, overwriting code that resulted in some lost work, but the workshop and courses we give today, and even a conference I did recently, help bring everyone to the same page and avoid issues like this in the future. The point is sharing your experience so everyone joining the team tackles it head on, puts their best effort, and creates something useful and unique for the customers.”

All in all, the main advantage of an internal project like PidamosDe is that it gives the team a chance to learn new technologies without affecting their client workloads. Internally developed projects also allow room for innovation and exploration, as the developers are given ample freedom to express their creativity and experiment with new approaches. Furthermore, these projects can be a great avenue for software development teams to utilize their collaboration skills; by working together on smaller endeavors. Employees can practice and perfect different ways of working that they can carry over into larger or external projects. This way, they will be well-versed in collaborating from collective experience. Plus, internal projects can have time constraints or other unique requirements; by tackling these obstacles together, a team’s communication and coordination capabilities become enhanced and primed for even better efficiency down the line.

Final words

Internal projects like PidamosDe can be great for software development companies, as they provide a fun and creative outlet for the team. Not only can these projects add value to the company, but they also give staff a chance to learn new skills, collaborate on interesting ideas and work together on something that isn’t need-specific, often resulting in amazing products that can stand on their own. 

Unlike client projects, which only provide the opportunity to work on their specific requirements, internal projects give developers the freedom to explore and uncover untapped potential. With internal projects, developers can dive deep into areas that interest them and explore different approaches to solving problems. Additionally, the internal project also gives rise to great ideas that eventually become products in the market. By tweaking solutions and using processes developed for other projects, the team can come up with advanced solutions very quickly. Ultimately, all these benefits add up, not just in terms of greater profitability but in terms of learning as well. All of this makes taking on internal projects a great advantage for any development team within a software company.

The Key Takeaways

  • When it comes to making the most out of the talent of a software company like Scio, having an internal project can be a great idea with plenty of positive outcomes all around.
  • Among them, without the pressure of a client’s expectations, a company can review processes, smooth out collaboration, and even launch a product that benefits all in the long run.
  • However, these projects need experience and good management to achieve their goals, because a lot of people can work on it at some point, and that could create some issues to work through.
  • All in all, an internal project like PidamosDe offers a lot of teaching and learning opportunities that otherwise could be difficult to have with more conventional types of projects.

Scio is an established Nearshore software development company based in Mexico that specializes in providing high-quality, cost-effective technologies for pioneering tech companies. We have been building and mentoring teams of engineers since 2003 and our experience gives us access not only to the knowledge but also the expertise needed when tackling any project. Get started today by contacting us about your project needs – We have teams available to help you achieve your business goals. Get in contact today!

Need a software development partner? Here’s what to look for when working in a Nearshore environment

Need a software development partner? Here’s what to look for when working in a Nearshore environment

by | Feb 14, 2023 | Nearshore, Software Development

Curated by: Sergio A. Martínez

When it comes to software development projects, the key to success is finding the perfect partner. You need a company that not only gets the project but also has the skills necessary to bring it to life, and finding a technology partner that can do both might be easier said than done, especially when time is of the essence. You need particular expertise to guarantee a positive outcome for any project currently undergoing development. And with the right alignment, this can result in much more manageable effects for all. So, where to start?

Need a software development partner? Here’s what to look for when working in a Nearshore environment

Well, first of all, depending on your needs regarding time, skill, and availability, looking beyond your local pool of talent is the best starting point. Nearshore software development stands out as a formidable option due to cultural and time zone similarities that make collaboration between teams easier, offering high-quality solutions in shorter time frames due to the close proximity of both companies. This allows for better internal collaboration without wasting time due to miscommunication, and with local support, Nearshore companies can provide the type of top-notch customer that will alleviate any stress or issues your client might come across during development talks. In short, adding a Nearshore software company to your upcoming project is a great first step that guarantees the best result possible for the project and your client.

However, when making such an important decision, it’s important to consider the values of both your company and the technology partner you have in mind—aligning them will set up this working relationship for success. So, beyond asking about their track record of projects that share similar requirements to yours, understanding how they ensure strong communication between teams, as well as getting a better sense of their culture and style of work, will enable you to make an educated decision that allows you to trust in their results and be secure in the partnership. Remember: choosing wisely can save time, and money, and ensure maximum quality results; so don’t be afraid to ask questions before you commit.

What to look for?

Need a software development partner? Here’s what to look for when working in a Nearshore environment

Looking for the right Nearshore development company to join your project doesn’t have to be a difficult task, but it does require research and some detective work, as many factors can be taken into consideration. Nearshore software development providers often offer collaborative solutions, yes, but it’s important to make sure that open communication remains essential, and both companies should build trust and confidence in each other to let a lengthy project develop smoothly. And the best way to do so is by identifying your needs and goals, asking questions about their process, and devising tangible collaboration plans. 

Moreover, research what different teams specialize in and speak directly with their developers before committing, so you can be sure the working relationship you are entering into will create productive partnerships. The questions you should have in mind should go into stuff like ‘Is there room for error?’, ‘Who takes responsibility when something goes wrong?’, or ‘Does this team pride itself on customer service?’ After all, if you can communicate easily with your software partner throughout the life cycle of the project, you can make sure they will provide ongoing support after delivery.

“Working with a Nearshore software development team always works best when there’s alignment between our respective business cultures”, says Luis Aburto, CEO and Founder of Scio. “I can attest to the unique dynamic that results from understanding more about each other’s working styles, communication conventions, and cultural backgrounds. We’ve found that respecting these differences upfront has made collaborations smoother and more successful in the long run. It truly is amazing how quickly those shared successes can create a common sense of purpose that helps keep us focused on what we’re trying to accomplish.”

After all, if you’re not on the same page from the outset, the outcome could cost you a great deal of time and money, at the very least, if not the entire relationship with the client you want to help by bringing outside expertise. There is nothing quite like having the trust that exists when two teams understand each other’s point of view and are willing to give and take for the best possible outcome. And this can be especially helpful if there are any issues that arise in development—having that mutual understanding of how to work through challenges as a team not only will save you tons of headaches, but also allow for amazing growth in this or any future project with a client.

Business culture affinity and success

Need a software development partner? Here’s what to look for when working in a Nearshore environment

We understand that working with a remote software development team can seem daunting, but it does not have to be if you take the right steps. The best way to ensure a successful partnership is to articulate your own goals and make sure you understand the tech stack that the agency offers. Communication should be regular to ensure expectations are both quickly addressed and met, and defining what sort of success measures or metrics you plan on using (having clear goals and mini-milestones throughout the partnership is a good place to start) will allow you to keep track of progress towards a final goal that meets or exceeds quality expectations.

And to achieve this, the importance of a business-cultural match cannot be overstated, but it might be hard to establish this connection right from the start. Outlining what makes your company unique and deciding which core values best align with those are the top priorities when it comes to looking for a software development company. Don’t be afraid to ask about how their past projects incorporated these core values to get an idea of how they might interact with yours, and raise any concerns you might have for the project. Additionally, the value of the reviews from customers who have used their services is critical, letting you find out if others experienced success with aligning their values with those of the development team. In the end, knowing that your core values match those of the software development company you select will give you peace of mind that you’re taking all the proper steps toward creating something extraordinary.

So, when you’re dealing with teams separated by vast distances and cultures, developing an effective working relationship is essential. Being mindful of cultural boundaries allows for open communication, better problem-solving capabilities, and smoother decision-making processes. Working with a partner whose values resonate in tune with yours gives you an added advantage stimulating morale from both parties. Companies that not only understand the importance of cultural matching but also recognize the need to bridge gaps should be sought out when looking to hire the right offshore software development team, and having answers to these matters will help you confidently choose a Nearshore development company that can efficiently deliver a quality product that meets your and your clients needs. 

The Key Takeaways

  • Working with a Nearshore development company can be the best decision for your particular project, but finding the right one can be a challenge.
  • Two elements will make the difference when choosing a Nearshore company: technical expertise, and a cultural match between both organizations.
  • While technical expertise can theoretically be done, a cultural match guarantees a positive outcome for everyone involved.
  • That’s because the right cultural match can ensure smoother cooperation and that both companies are on the same page, which is critical to ensure the successful completion of any project.

Scio is an established Nearshore software development company based in Mexico that specializes in providing high-quality, cost-effective technologies for pioneering tech companies. We have been building and mentoring teams of engineers since 2003 and our experience gives us access not only to the knowledge but also the expertise needed when tackling any project. Get started today by contacting us about your project needs – We have teams available to help you achieve your business goals. Get in contact today!

Growth Mindset and New Year’s Resolutions: An amazing combination for any software developer looking to learn more

Growth Mindset and New Year’s Resolutions: An amazing combination for any software developer looking to learn more

by | Feb 1, 2023 | Scio

Curated by: Sergio A. Martínez

The start of a new year is a perfect time for reflection, self-improvement, and goal setting. For professionals in the software development industry, setting New Year’s resolutions can be an effective way to foster a growth mindset, taking on challenges and striving for targeted goals that can promote resilience and equip you with additional skills and knowledge to serve you well in your career. There are various approaches to building a growth mindset that can be applied when developing your New Year’s resolutions—identifying achievable objectives, breaking goals into smaller tasks, tracking your progress, and seeking feedback from mentors or peers will help ensure you achieve success, so the second month of the year begins, how are you seizing the opportunities the year presents to build up your growth mindset?

Growth Mindset and New Year’s Resolutions: An amazing combination for any software developer looking to learn more

After all, it’s important to remember that nothing great is accomplished overnight, which is why setting realistic goals, focusing on the right skills, and cultivating a growth mindset are all essential for success within the software development industry. A growth mindset allows us to have faith in our abilities and strive towards our dreams (no matter how difficult or overwhelming they may seem) while keeping a healthy sense of balance and patience along the way. Because software development is constantly evolving, resolutions that involve honing existing skills or learning new ones will go far in terms of professional growth. With a positive attitude, realistic outlook, and dedication to a growth-oriented skill set, software developers can make 2023 their most successful year yet.

How are things going at Scio?

Growth Mindset and New Year’s Resolutions: An amazing combination for any software developer looking to learn more

Aspiring software developers should keep a growth mindset in mind and use it to look back at their progress from last year. It’s normal to have moments of doubt or worry about failure, but having a growth mindset means pushing through and continuing to grow, even when things don’t work out as planned. Setting goals and making resolutions based on that mindset can be an effective way to learn new skills and further develop existing ones. For example, practicing coding in unfamiliar languages, participating in hackathons, or working through tutorials are all great ways to cultivate a growth mindset while expanding your knowledge base. Everyone has a different way of approaching and tackling these challenges, often with very specific goals in mind. That’s why we asked many of our developers at Scio how their year is going so far, what their resolutions look like right now, and what’s the approach to ensure that 2023 remains a year of growth and learning.

“It feels absolutely amazing to be able to look back at the start of January 2023 and see how much I’ve achieved with my programming resolutions this year”, reads one of the responses. “One of my original goals was to become more competent with React, and I am now knowledgeably able to develop complex web applications with JavaScript through it. Additionally, I was able to teach myself Python and use its extensive library of modules as well as integrate other libraries into some projects I’ve been involved in. This month gave me great confidence in my skills that will help me for many challenges to come.”

Here at Scio, we have talked before about the challenge and reward of a self-learning disposition, and how it has always been a core aspect of the programming culture; understanding the value of this type of experience is fundamental for an organization where a growth mindset guides everything we do. That also translates to learning at every level, regardless of your status or years of experience.

“After reflecting on the past year, I decided to take my New Year’s resolutions up a notch for 2023”, said another response from a Senior developer at Scio. “I’ve set myself the goal of becoming fluent in at least two more coding languages and to be able to troubleshoot any project that arises without issue. Additionally, I want to expand my reach online by further connecting with other developers all over the world, as well as honing my English writing and speaking skills, which always feel like they can improve. 2023 feels like a year that will be full of challenges, so I want to feel ready and raring to go.”

In other words, senior programmers may have all the technical skills they need in their field, but that doesn’t mean they should stop learning. Soft skills such as communication and collaboration, problem-solving strategies, working efficiently with difficult colleagues and customers, understanding how an organization works, and developing creative solutions – all these abilities are hugely beneficial and can take an experienced programmer to a whole new level of success. After all, as companies grow on a more international level, skills like leadership, communication, and the ability to build successful teams, it becomes more important than ever. So while it’s easy enough to coast by on technical skill alone, those who are serious about succeeding long term should genuinely invest in sharpening those non-technical abilities as well.

“As the year ended, I started reflecting on my New Year’s resolutions as a programmer. One of several achievable ones was to allocate at least an hour each day just for studying new coding languages and frameworks”, said one final answer to our question about challenges to tackle this year. “And so far, I have kept up with this resolution and it has been very rewarding – I now feel comfortable tackling any programming challenge with any language. The additional benefit is that I am starting to gain confidence in developing new software and tools we could use in the future. I knew that setting goals such as these would help me develop exponentially as a programmer – and so far, this has certainly been the case.”

Always look for opportunities to learn

Growth Mindset and New Year’s Resolutions: An amazing combination for any software developer looking to learn more

It’s the start of a new year and the perfect opportunity to create good habits. For software developers, this means resolving to always seek ways to grow and improve. Developing software involves complex tasks, such as relying on research and intense problem-solving skills, so staying up-to-date on new technologies is key. By establishing a practice of routinely checking out new tutorials, and conferences and finding more holistic approaches to development tasks, you can create an objective feedback loop that helps identify weak spots in your knowledge. 

Whether it be learning a new programming language, understanding database optimization better, or spending more time on code reviews, making new year’s resolutions can help developers focus on important goals that will keep them up-to-date on the latest development trends and technologies. Setting achievable goals also gives developers an additional sense of accomplishment when they can check them off their list. Moreover, taking the initiative to grow throughout the year helps developers remain ahead of the curve in a constantly growing field, which ultimately benefits both their current employers and future prospects. Ultimately, New Year’s resolutions can be a great starting point for a successful 2023.

Scio is an established Nearshore software development company based in Mexico that specializes in providing high-quality, cost-effective technologies for pioneering tech companies. We have been building and mentoring teams of engineers since 2003 and our experience gives us access not only to the knowledge but also the expertise needed when tackling any project. Get started today by contacting us about your project needs – We have teams available to help you achieve your business goals. Get in contact today!

Why is it so important to ensure a cultural match when hiring new software developers?

Why is it so important to ensure a cultural match when hiring new software developers?

by | Jan 27, 2023 | Scio, Software Development

Curated by: Sergio A. Martínez

When talking about software development, what is a cultural match? Simply put, it’s having core values that align with one another—a synergy between two entities that promote success and growth. A cultural match fosters a sense of mutual respect, trustworthiness, and teamwork amongst its members, and when an individual and an organization have a compatible culture, it creates an environment conducive to collaboration, innovation, and great success in developing software projects.

Why is it so important to ensure a cultural match when hiring new software developers?

However, a cultural match goes beyond just technical skills and qualifications. It’s all about having an alignment of ideas and working styles that ensure smooth collaboration; it means having a great synergy between team members in terms of communication, how they approach tasks, their attitude towards change and adaptation, and desired work-life balance. All of these factors can contribute to faster turnaround times and better-quality products. Consequently, making sure teams culturally match is rapidly becoming a standard practice for many Agile organizations that value collaboration and team success over individual recognition.

For these reasons, it’s essential to ensure there is a clear affinity between the values of an organization and the individual developer when hiring new software engineers for a development team. After all, having a shared culture ensures everyone is familiar with how conversations will flow, decisions will be made, and how tasks will be broken up—this in turn leads to a greater rate of progress on projects and improved motivation across the whole team. Nevertheless, finding employees who demonstrate the same values and beliefs as the company can be more difficult than it looks. In no small part, a cultural match provides the foundation for a successful collaboration and ensures that everyone in the software development company is on the same page, sharing ideas and giving constructive feedback back and forth. The lack of a cultural fit can have a devastating effect on the dynamic of a team; without a sense of commonality, team members may not be able to understand each other’s perspectives or motivations, generating distrust and a heightened feeling of competition rather than cooperation. 

What’s more, the insular nature that can arise from an absence of shared values can stifle creativity and innovation, leading to alienation among team members who might not now be inspired or motivated in their responsibilities. However, it’s encouraging to note that even a diverse set of members from different cultures can come together effectively when each understands their role and the team has a shared purpose and identity that reinforces the idea of belonging. When teams are working well together, any cultural discrepancies end up being an advantage instead of an impediment as it helps broaden people’s perspectives and enhances creativity. 

In other words, a shared team culture plays an integral role in creating and fostering strong relationships among individuals—something that should never be underestimated when building a successful software development team that is capable of integrating seamlessly according to the needs and expectations of a client in need of Nearshore expertise and collaboration.

Proving a cultural match

Why is it so important to ensure a cultural match when hiring new software developers?

Nowadays, it is pretty much accepted that achieving success in the tech industry demands not just technical expertise, but also the ability to work collaboratively and solve problems as part of a team. Culture is thus one of the most important criteria for any software development hire—more important even than experience and resume credentials. Your team needs to directly relate to each other and embrace the same vision for success; that’s how a great business gets built and grows. If you want a cultural fit among personnel that makes workflows more efficient and can lead to better results within shorter timelines, your company should first and foremost focus on finding the right match. However, in practice, how does this look?

“The kind of questions the candidate asks are very important, you should always take special note of them”, says Helen Matamoros. “It will always reveal where their priorities lie, as well as the stuff they get interested in: career plans, training options… Anything that has nothing to do with money is a good indicator if they are going to be good team players or not. If they start demanding out-of-the-ordinary requirements, like a specific computer setup (especially at home), or asking for assistants and similar things. They are not going to be good matches.”

After all, if a software company hires someone who isn’t a good cultural fit, they can risk a lot. They might end up putting in more resources without seeing the returns they would get from having an employee that gels with the team. It could also lead to conflicts among existing colleagues, which would be counter-productive for the productivity of the entire organization. In the worst cases, having someone on board who doesn’t fit can be damaging to morale, leading to high turnover rates which can cost businesses dearly in terms of replacing staff and having to retrain new employees. Ultimately, hiring decisions are best made with an emphasis on finding someone who will contribute positively to the established corporate culture rather than disrupt it. A good company should always strive to hire people who are a good match for its values and culture—it helps lead to a much more productive and satisfying workplace.

A culture of sharing

Why is it so important to ensure a cultural match when hiring new software developers?

Working in a software development company means having the privilege to partner with innovative, creative individuals who share a common goal of developing state-of-the-art technologies. While it may seem that individual minds could create powerful results, an important element of software development is the collaboration and sharing of knowledge between members of the team. Everyone brings their unique background, experience, and expertise; after all, a successful product requires all these pieces to come together at once. Sharing valuable insights with peers can lead to breakthroughs that single brains could not achieve alone. Furthermore, by openly sharing our knowledge we gain exposure and appreciation from others as well as benefit from their ideas in return. This mutual exchange accelerates progress towards creating greater products and pushing boundaries of technology beyond what we’re familiar with today.

“Sharing knowledge is a big part of our internal culture, so we always bring that up to gauge the interest of the candidate in doing so”, continues Helen. “Mostly by telling them about our Sensei-Creati program, if they are of a certain experience level, and see if they would be excited to participate and help more Junior developers to learn and grow. If they show certain reluctance to do so, maybe that could create certain friction down the line. It’s simply better to leave things at that if neither of us is going to be comfortable with that part of the job.”

Sharing knowledge within a software development company is extremely important so that everyone has a chance to learn and stay on top of the latest technologies, after all. Complex tasks become simpler when everyone knows the same information, making collaboration much easier. To ensure no one is ever left behind, it is beneficial to have regular tutorials or workshops where people can voice their questions or concerns and learn from each other’s experiences. Not only does sharing knowledge create a closer team dynamic, but also encourages curiosity among staff and keeps them motivated as they build new skill sets. 

This all highlights how maintaining a cohesive and collaborative software development team is essential to any organization’s success. When inviting new members to join, it is crucial to consider not only their technical skills but also whether or not they will fit into the existing culture of the company. By assessing both aspects of a potential hire, you can ensure that your company maintains a strong and productive development department, aiming to build a team of developers that complement each other’s skill sets and provide different perspectives. This will result in a more innovative and effective team overall. By following these tips, you should be able to find strong candidates that fit not only the job requirements but also the future of your organization.

The Key Takeaways

  • One of the most important trends of the modern technology industry is building the right internal culture to ensure that collaboration and communication lead to success.
  • That’s why it’s so crucial to ensure a cultural match between the organization and any potential developer looking to join in.
  • The consequences of a bad cultural match can be devastating for any team, leading to bad communication, delays, and frictions that almost certainly will mean bad outcomes.
  • This makes it very important to thoroughly understand both the values and expectations of the candidate, ask the right questions, and provide a very clear culture to ensure a successful collaboration down the line.

Scio is an established Nearshore software development company based in Mexico that specializes in providing high-quality, cost-effective technologies for pioneering tech companies. We have been building and mentoring teams of engineers since 2003 and our experience gives us access not only to the knowledge but also the expertise needed when tackling any project. Get started today by contacting us about your project needs – We have teams available to help you achieve your business goals. Get in contact today!

“Asking the right questions in order to think the right answers”, a peek into the culture of coaching we have at Scio.

“Asking the right questions in order to think the right answers”, a peek into the culture of coaching we have at Scio.

by | Jan 26, 2023 | Scio

Curated by: Sergio A. Martínez

It’s no secret that bringing out the best in everyone on a software development team is essential for success. The cumulative experience of each developer is what leads to true innovation, but for these solutions to be realized, everyone must feel comfortable expressing themselves and building up on the ideas of others. Furthermore, encouraging collaboration and creative thinking help foster a proactive environment where people don’t just follow instructions but strive to come up with better and more efficient alternatives, and if done right, brings out the best in every team member, which will ultimately result in an excellent end product that surpasses expectations.

“Asking the right questions in order to think the right answers”, a peek into the culture of coaching we have at Scio.

However, teamwork in software development is no easy task. Making sure that every person’s talents and skill sets are being fully applied is extremely important for the success of any project, and creating a workplace that encourages cooperation, respect, and trust between all members of the team is key. After all, the outcome of any software development team largely depends on each individual’s commitment, so it’s important for managers, mentors, and colleagues alike to foster an environment of support and to learn to give every individual the space needed to thrive in their role. 

The importance of coaching in this context cannot be overstated. Software development is all about providing learning and guidance to help developers build amazing stuff. Therefore having good coaches who not only take the time to develop strong relationships with those they are working with but who also understand their skills and objectives and offer support that can help them improve, can truly make a difference. This is why coaching has become increasingly prevalent over the last decade in software development: companies are realizing the advantages of investing in their staff to help them reach their goals and develop their skills. 

This is not only a matter of opinion; studies have shown that coaching can immensely benefit both managers and employees alike by helping them become more effective communicators, stay organized, and explore new ideas. With proper coaching support, teams are better equipped to discover how to solve problems quickly and efficiently, which leads to happier clients and an overall improved workplace experience. It’s easy to understand why so many companies are putting such emphasis on coaching as part of their development strategy.

To go deeper into this subject, we spoke with Yamila Solari, Coaching Leader and Co-Founder of Scio to talk about the philosophy and approach to coaching in a software development environment. What effects it can have on a team, and why Scio puts so much emphasis on coaching, communication, and collaboration when seeking to reach a positive outcome. 

Coaching as a building block of success

“Asking the right questions in order to think the right answers”, a peek into the culture of coaching we have at Scio.

Building a corporate culture that understands the value of coaching can be vitally important for any software development organization, as it keeps teams energized and focused on the project at hand. To accomplish this, creating an atmosphere of open dialogue without judgment can help foster collaboration within the organization. With these basic premises in place, any leader should be able to build a strong relationship between team members that translates into successful projects and an overall better corporate environment. However, this is always easier said than done, so how does an organization like Scio implement coaching as part of the building blocks of its culture? 

“Coaching is not simply about ‘pouring’ knowledge and hoping everyone absorbs it. It’s about asking the right questions to encourage thinking of the right answers”, she says. “For example, if you observe how Carlos Estrada [Lead Application Developer that started in Scio 10 years ago in our training program] interacts with junior developers when they ask them technical questions, you will see that he does not give them a straight answer right away. Instead, he asks about their thinking processes, about the solutions they had already tried, and the options they see to do things differently to get better results, and on. This is the basis of our coaching philosophy today; we don’t want to be just managers or directors who decide every single thing that happens during development, but people who encourage you to grow and learn on your own.”

After all, one of the most important things you can do as a manager of a software development team is to focus on team members’ growth and progress instead of pure micromanaging, allowing a degree of freedom over how they choose to approach each task. This promotes a sense of growth and autonomy that ensures everyone is on board when working towards creating a successful output. Building a successful culture in a software development company requires open communication and feedback from all levels of the organization. 

“Most Seniors at Scio have taken these courses (Effective Communication, Coaching Skills, and other Leadership courses) and participated in our Sensei-Creati program, and as a result, the way they build relationships and help others, has changed. Now, when someone goes to them for help, they have lots of new ways to approach problems and encourage others to learn. And in the follow-up sessions with the Sensei at Scio, we talk a lot about how powerful it is to accompany someone on their growth and see how they achieve their own success. Of course, with very Junior developers, it’s a good idea to give them all the knowledge you can, but the idea is to help them apply it the best way possible.” 

In other words, Mid-level and Senior members of a development team have the unique opportunity to help their more Junior colleagues to build their own paths because sharing knowledge and experience benefits everyone involved: Junior developers can quickly increase their skill set, while senior developers can help foster an environment capable of turning out future experts. Moreover, team collaboration ensures any hurdle is spotted early on, thus improving overall efficiency and code quality in the long run. On paper, it’s a win-win for everybody, but these kinds of dynamics cannot happen by themselves; a key element must be present in everyone involved for coaching and knowledge sharing to be as effective as it is at Scio.

Growth Mindset

None of these efforts would stick if the people at Scio didn’t embrace the possibility of continuous improvement at every opportunity. After all, we have talked on this blog before about how growth mindsets are a core aspect of the culture that we have built over the years, and how important it is to ensure that every project we collaborate with has the necessary components to ensure success. 

Of course, coaching plays a vital role in this mindset, providing team members with an opportunity to communicate their ideas and goals productively, and giving them the necessary tools to act on them. This process encourages each individual to examine their personal strengths and weaknesses and develop effective strategies to reach their goals, so for team members who excel in certain areas, coaching can give them the guidance they need to elevate those skills and make significant contributions to the development process. Conversely, for those with less experience or knowledge, coaching offers the means to improve technical capabilities or collaboration skills. A successful coaching program will ultimately provide a development team with perspective on how its various parts work together as a whole, allowing for improved collaboration and stronger results.

“We all have two mentalities: a ‘fixed’ and a ‘growth’ one, and we bounce between them all the time. However, certain people are more attuned to one over the other, and Scio looks for individuals more inclined to grow. These people know that we are all born with certain talents and skills, but that’s not the end of it; they believe that with enough effort, practice, and hard work, they can develop any ability necessary”, she says. “And this is a constant process. In certain circumstances, it’s easy to get stuck in a fixed mindset, thinking ‘I’m not as smart as they think I am. I’m going to screw this up’, or things like that. So our Apprenticeship and Sensei-Creati programs try to teach the people here to recognize these situations and understand that there’s always room for improvement. We are a work in progress.”

In all, software development involves feeling comfortable with a never-ending learning curve. With ever-changing trends in technology, software developers must continuously invest in their skills, pushing themselves to learn more and stay ahead of the curve. However, it’s also important for developers to not only understand coding techniques but also have knowledge of collaboration and communication approaches so that they can develop efficient and beneficial dynamics that efficiently serve a project’s needs. Software development is for organized individuals who take initiative and responsibility for their own learning while understanding the value of relying on others as part of a team.

“A few years back, when we were starting with the idea of coaching, our technical people gave more importance to technical skills, of course, but I think that, as a result of a more globalized perspective and realizing how things really work, they realized we had to put more effort into learning and teaching what are called soft skills”, she said. “These types of skills are for everyone, and the Scio Leadership Program was created to develop these skills in our people. These soft skills are a frequent topic when I have check-ins with the teams, because of the importance of communication and language when collaboration is at the heart of everything we do.”

The reality is that soft skills are a type of ability that is often overlooked but never understated – Nearshore development teams need just as many soft skills to work together effectively as they do technical abilities. Communication, critical thinking, problem-solving, leadership, and collaboration, all of which take these teams beyond the simple act of coding, can make or break a project, allowing them to work together and stay ahead of any challenge. 

So, as Nearshore development continues to grow in popularity, honing these soft skills is essential for a well-oiled team that produces quality results. And taking into consideration how vital are these intangible traits for the successful completion of projects, it makes it clear that any Nearshore development team should prioritize having members who possess soft skills.

Language is everything

“Asking the right questions in order to think the right answers”, a peek into the culture of coaching we have at Scio.

So, at this point, it is pretty clear that the development of successful software requires more than just coding and design – it requires the element of human connection that only open communication can offer in a Nearshore development organization like Scio. And using the right language is a big part of that; when everyone understands not only the specifications of coding and design but how to communicate issues, feedback, and read each other to make sure nothing is misunderstood, the process flows smoothly and efficiently, leading to a better outcome. 

However, beyond the rules of language, you might expect, like no snark, condescension, or put-downs, using the appropriate words in the proper situation can ensure interest in the growth process, and builds on collective knowledge to help solve any problems that arise. Good communication starts with clear and carefully chosen language, and everyone in a good team takes the time to consider how their words are received when it needs to be used in the workplace.

“When it comes to helping people to grow, language is incredibly important. In the beginning, it was very difficult for me because I didn’t pay as much attention to what I was saying, but now we all understand what a difference it makes to choose the correct words”, she says. “When it comes to coaching, feedback, and encouragement, language is even more important; for example, if kids solve a math problem creatively, it’s easy for an adult to use that as a qualifier, ‘Oh, how creative you are for math!”, which shapes how they regard themselves and points them toward a fixed mindset where they may think they are creative but only for that specific area of life.  But if you say, “Oh, your thinking process while solving that math problem was very creative, I can see you worked hard!’, then the emphasis is in the process, not in the ability. Iit ceases to be something they *are*, and starts becoming something they can *work on and develop*. This is a really basic example, but assertive communication that emphasizes this belief on the capacity we all have to grow is one of the foundations of coaching.”

Taking this to a software development context, the proper use of language is paramount in providing effective and appreciated feedback. Taking the time to deeply consider how best to phrase criticism or provide praise can make all the difference in successfully encouraging progress. And that same attention needs to be applied when receiving feedback as well; paying close attention and absorbing criticism constructively to come away with meaningful dialogue and better learn from mistakes is how we improve our skills. In consequence, employing strategic and appropriate language can go a long way towards productive collaboration, and making clear how each member has their responsibility in the project, holding themselves accountable for making sure tasks are being completed as expected and deadlines are being met, plays an important role by helping to identify areas that need improvement. This ensures that problems are addressed properly so they can be prevented from reoccurring in future projects; if feedback and responsibility are two pieces of the puzzle that remain elusive, it could spell disaster for a software development project.

“A more horizontal hierarchy also helps. I’d argue that the principles of SCRUM and the Agile methodologies don’t work as well in organizations with a high hierarchy. One of the core tenets of the Agile Manifesto is ‘Individuals and interactions over processes and tools’; communication and interpersonal relationships are vital for Agile work, and without them, a project can easily fail. That’s why we remark so much on its importance to everyone who joins Scio, and we try and encourage everyone to not only have a voice but also allow voices during the development process. It’s psychological safety, which results in high-performing teams that are not afraid to speak up and correct course if something is not working. That’s a level of maturity that we appreciate at Scio.”

Final words

Good software development relies on the hard work and dedication of a well-organized team. And the most successful projects come from teams that have received both instruction and coaching to develop their skills, both hard and soft, enabling them to arrive at unique software solutions. This makes it essential for team members to keep growing and learning, ensuring progress and a result that reflects everyone’s talents and expertise. Without proper mentorship in place to guide growth, knowledge won’t be passed over correctly, which is a net loss for any serious software company. It’s through the combination of teaching with encouragement that you create a well-educated environment where collaboration is top-notch, producing amazing results every time.

In this sense, having skilled software developers with a deep understanding of the industry is key, but even more important is having experienced coaches who can teach those developers how to achieve their potential. Coaches don’t just provide technical guidance; they also encourage collaboration among team members and foster an environment of continuous learning and growth. A good coach provides a structure that helps guide software-development projects in the right direction while also allowing team members to take risks and explore new ideas. In short, if you want a software development process to be successful, you need coaches who can help nurture an atmosphere of creativity and continual improvement. A positive outcome for everyone, not only the end product or the client, can be guaranteed with this approach.

Scio is an established Nearshore software development company based in Mexico that specializes in providing high-quality, cost-effective technologies for pioneering tech companies. We have been building and mentoring teams of engineers since 2003 and our experience gives us access not only to the knowledge but also the expertise needed when tackling any project. Get started today by contacting us about your project needs – We have teams available to help you achieve your business goals. Get in contact today!