How to evaluate a software company before signing a contract Steps to protect your project from the start

Sahl Wednesday,16 Apr 2025

If you're about to implement an idea for a website, online store, or mobile app, the most important step you need to take is evaluating the programming company you're working with.
A good evaluation not only protects you from failure, but also saves you a lot of time, effort, and future costs.
Let me tell you exactly what points you should focus on before signing any contract or starting the project:
1. Review their previous work and evaluate it yourself.
Don't rely on word of mouth; get actual links to projects they've implemented.
Try opening the website or app and examine the design, speed, and usability.
If you feel the experience is mediocre or similar to ready-made templates, they'll likely offer something unique for your project.
2. Ask about the team itself, not just the company.
Who will be working on your project? How much experience do they have? Have they worked on similar ideas before?
Some companies hire freelancers or newcomers without a solid background, and you end up paying the price.
3. Request a detailed implementation plan.
The company should provide you with a timeline divided into clear phases, detailing what each phase includes and how long it will take.
If they don't have a written plan or simply say, "We'll discuss it along the way," this is a warning sign.
4. Review the contract and read the terms carefully.
Don't rush to sign a contract without understanding every clause.
Make sure the contract includes:
• The specific project duration
• The number of permitted modifications
• Payment terms
• Responsibility for technical support after delivery
• Intellectual property rights
If the contract is vague or contains very general terms, request clarification or amendments.
5. Examine the communication and follow-up methods.
Does the company provide an effective means of communication? Such as WhatsApp, an official email, or a ticketing system?
Does a project manager or someone with experience follow up with you to facilitate all the details?
If communication is difficult or haphazard, this will be a problem that will cause you trouble during implementation. 6. Evaluate Previous Clients
Search the company's name on Google and see what people have to say about them, especially on sites like Clutch, Trustpilot, or even Google Reviews.
If there are repeated complaints, take them seriously.
7. Request a trial version or a small project to start.
If you're hesitant, don't start with a large project.
Request a small part or initial design implementation as a small project, and see their approach, quality of implementation, and commitment.
8. Ask them: "What makes our project different from others?"
This question reveals whether the company is thinking creatively or simply working with ready-made templates.
Professional companies will ask you about your audience and goals and offer you customized solutions, not a copycat of someone else's project.
Evaluating a software company should be done with the mindset of a "success partner," not just an implementer, because any initial mistake could cost you significant losses later.
Take your time to research and ask questions. If you'd like to start with a team that understands the local market, especially in Saudi Arabia, and specializes in building successful online stores from scratch, don't hesitate to contact the Sahal team. We're happy to serve you from the first idea... until your store is ready and generating actual sales!