[ttwerdun]

Ive had this idea come to me a while ago and I need to know about the proper steps to find someone to create some software for me. Are there any hints and tips? I am looking for someone who is comfortable with voice activation software and some other things.

Ive never had a program made or dont know if this is as simple as editing other open software out there just to get a rough run of my "idea".

I wish I could be more forth coming with what it is, but I am have a business idea so I am not really interested in being to open about it right now.

 

[crimsontears809739]

1.) The hourly rate for a contracted experienced software engineer is usually $25 to $35+ an hour. You don't want to contract a professional or professional organization unless you have a thousand dollars (or more) saved up for a simple program. A complex program can cost you several thousand dollars. If you want to continuously expand and support a complex program over several years, you looking at well over $10,000+ in R&D costs.

Often times you can find college students looking for a final projects for school related things....who will develop the software for cheep/free. This will give you something quick and dirty, but is not something you can really build a business model around.

Now, if your actually serious and can spare a few thousand dollars you need to get in-touch with a temp agency that specializes in engineering services,...or contract an software development firm.

You will need a very detailed plan before you contact any of these agencies, because they will want realistic deadlines and fine details about the project. You will want block diagrams of the software flow and design before you look into hiring someone.

Often times a software engineer needs to work with a graphic designer to create "visually impressive" GUI's. That is another person you might need to hire if you are serious.

2.) I can write and develop software. No, I don't have the time to start any more projects....but I can give you some advise on basic things like what language/platform to use, how to deploy your product, how to put together a block diagram for software flow. Sure, I'll sign a non-disclosure agreement/contract if you want, and we can talk over something more secure.

I would not be too terribly afraid about someone stealing you idea, epically here. There is often hundreds of hours of work from "an idea" until a deployed product.

3.) If you don't have a lot of money to spare, writing the software yourself is always an option. High-level languages like C# and scripting languages like PHP make is easy to write complex programs. I can help you get started on that road.