The New Normal for App Dev in 2010
Forrester Research outlines five changes in 2010 underscoring a new lean and mean approach, which suggests dev teams operate in some respects like an under-funded startup. In a new report, out this week, the analysts advise app dev professionals:
"Embrace cloud computing as an emerging platform." Cloud computing is here to stay, according to Forrester. Learn more about how the platforms and services available in today's public cloud offerings may benefit your projects and set up accounts to experiment.
"Find your inner startup." Think like a Web startup and make sure that your team understands the business, the competition, the user's experience and the best ways to apply limited resources during slow times or to meet fast changing requirements. Streamline your dev processes where it makes sense.
"Favor flexibility and cost over platform loyalty." Identify platform alternatives (open source, RIA, dynamic language frameworks) and consider a fit-to-purpose approach.
"Become passionate about user experience." Customers are more loyal to applications that offer great user experience, according to Forrester. Teach your dev team UX best practices and reward people for improving user experience along with features.
"Find and coach your talent." Look beyond technical skills and find great developers that understand business requirements and can offer creative solutions. Recognize the existing talents of your team. Consider hiring top talent, instead of simply expanding "your resources" with a number of hires.
What changes are you making this year to get the most out of your application development and processes? Express your thoughts below or drop me a line at krichards@1105media.com
Posted by Kathleen Richards on 01/05/2010 at 3:11 PM