Enterprise app development has a project scope different from the ones for small or midsize businesses. Multi-tiered access restrictions, heterogeneous IT environment with a miscellany of new-age tech and legacy software, and complex workflows often make enterprise app development elaborate and resource-demanding.
Beginning this century, dynamically typed languages have evolved greatly with their supporting ecosystem, getting more robust each day. Python, for example, has developed into an advanced language with a detailed and well-documented open-source ecosystem with equal contributions from independent developers and big players such as Google, IBM, and Facebook.
Being one of the preferred languages for Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning software development along with its application in web development and data analytics, Python has been in the field of enterprise development for a long haul. Now when organizations are turning to Python development services to build their software assets and amp up their frameworks with new tools and technologies, it is important to streamline the process of prospecting Python experts.
Whether you are sourcing talent from a third-party Python web development company or building an-in-house team or augmenting the existing Python team, it is handy to have guidelines in place to hire Python developers. With this blog, we aim to elucidate what aspects of the project have a direct implication on hiring strategy, how to search and prospect talent, and what are the most common pitfalls in the process.
Project Aspects that Govern Hiring Strategy
1. Project Scope
Going by the recommendations of expert Python consultants, the scope of the project should be used as a determinant before beginning the process to hire Python developers. The hiring team should assess and document the project goals, scale, milestones, team KPIs, and member KRAs. The process of documenting itself will help project managers to assess if they need resource augmentation, and if yes, what are the skills needed and expected experience level of the candidate.
2. Project Tech Framework
For example, a data science Python project would need talent experienced not just in Python, but also in R with hands-on experience in frameworks such as Keras. Multi-skilled talent may be a little difficult to source but it is immensely helpful to have one onboard in complex projects. Therefore, most organizations seeking talent for their multi-tech projects resort to sourcing through a Python development company.
3. Project Development Stage
Mature projects operating at a large scale usually require experienced resources for app development using Python, who can adapt to the existing framework, grasp the project logic and architecture, change code when needed, and communicate the same to a large team. In comparison, with small scale MVP projects, usually skilled developers with not-so-extensive experience can suffice. Having said that, it entirely is at the discretion of project managers and other stakeholders to assess the requirement and source talent for the same.
Best Sources to Consider When Looking for Python Developers
a) Freelance and Recruiting Portals
When the requirement is for a few man-hours, organizations can try platforms such as LinkedIn, Freelancer, Upwork, Toptal, etc. Not just individual developers, but several professional service providers can be found at such platforms. However, the caveat concerns trust and communication.
b) Software and Firm Review Platforms
There are many authentic review platforms that undertake several factors to review software development firms and their offerings. GoodFirms, Clutch, AppFutura, etc., are some of the leading review websites where the recruiters can search for a given Python development company, analyze competency through previous projects, and request a quote. This is the most appropriate method for enterprises and large size companies to hire expert Python developers. Moreover, many platforms also offer their intermediary services to find the most suitable services provider for the project. It helps in cutting short the time required for making the list of prospective providers.
Leveraging Python Developers for Different Enterprise App Development Projects
I. Web Application Developmen
Python for app development has become a popular choice among enterprises due to its versatility, simplicity, and robust ecosystem. Its clean syntax allows for rapid development and reduces time-to-market applications. Python’s extensive web development frameworks, such as Django and Flask, empower developers to create scalable, secure, and feature-rich web applications efficiently. Whether it’s building ecommerce platforms, content management systems, or customer relationship management (CRM) software, Python developers can leverage these frameworks to deliver customized solutions tailored to the unique requirements of enterprises.
II. Data Analytics and Business Intelligence
At present, enterprises rely on Data Analytics and Business Intelligence tools to gain valuable insights and make informed decisions. Python, with its powerful libraries like Pandas, NumPy, and Matplotlib, is well-suited for developing robust data analytics platforms and visualization tools. Python developers can leverage these libraries to process large datasets, perform complex analyses, and generate insightful visualizations, empowering enterprises to derive actionable insights from their data.
III. Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems
ERP systems integrate various business processes and functions across an organization, including finance, human resources, supply chain management, and more. Python’s versatility and ease of integration make it an ideal choice for developing ERP solutions that streamline operations, enhance collaboration, and improve efficiency within enterprises. Python developers can leverage frameworks like Odoo to build scalable and modular ERP systems tailored to the specific needs of organizations.
IV. Internet of Things (IoT) Applications
With the proliferation of connected devices and sensors, enterprises are increasingly investing in IoT solutions to monitor assets, optimize processes, and improve decision-making. Python, with its lightweight footprint and extensive libraries for IoT development, is well-suited for building IoT applications that collect, analyze, and act upon sensor data in real-time. When organizations hire Python app developers, they can leverage frameworks like Raspberry Pi and MicroPython to develop IoT solutions ranging from smart factories to intelligent supply chain management systems.
V. Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies are revolutionizing various industries, from healthcare and finance to marketing and manufacturing. Python’s rich ecosystem of ML and AI libraries, including TensorFlow, scikit-learn, and PyTorch, enables developers to build sophisticated algorithms and predictive models that drive business value. Python developers proficient in ML and AI techniques can develop custom solutions for tasks such as predictive maintenance, fraud detection, recommendation systems, and natural language processing, empowering enterprises to harness the power of data-driven insights.
Harnessing the Power of Python for AI/ML Development
VI. DevOps and Automation Tools
Enterprises are adopting DevOps practices and automation tools to accelerate software development, improve collaboration, and ensure continuous delivery. Python’s simplicity and readability make it an ideal choice for developing DevOps tools and automation scripts that streamline workflows, automate repetitive tasks, and enhance productivity within IT teams. Python developers can leverage frameworks like Ansible, Fabric, and Docker-Python to build custom automation solutions tailored to the specific needs of enterprises.
Best Practices for Prospecting Python Developers
1. Structural Communication of Project Scope
As stated earlier here, the project scope is a crucial determinant for screening prospective candidates. To this end, it is important to communicate the same in a structural and elaborate manner.
Information that needs to be clearly laid out before candidates is – the technology stack of the project, frameworks that they would need to have hands-on experience with, and database that is currently in use. This information will serve as a checklist for the candidates as well and they can assess their suitability for the role saving time in recruitment and training.
2. Screening Based on Skill and Experience
Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning development projects, often skill takes upper hand over experience. For example, a Python candidate with skills niche to AI and ML with 2 years of experience might be more suitable than a candidate with 5-years of experience in Python coding. The recruiting teams need to assess which combination will fit in the best interests of the team. Expert Python consultants play a very crucial role in recruiting resources with multiple skills and experience levels, which is quite helpful in complex projects such as enterprise app development.
3. Testing on a Pilot Task in the Same Project
Many times, project managers face challenges with resources even though they were screened through a Python task. The best practice for screening through tasks is to assign a task from the real project, even if it seems to be simpler. It would be logical to let the candidate examine the code they have to work with later, understand the business logic, and code with the real tools and framework. Since it is a time-intensive exercise, it should be used as the last leg of a recruitment procedure.
4. Due Importance for Soft Skill
In cross-functional teams working with global team members and clients, soft skills such as communication, time management, motivation, and team spirit can be judged to a certain extent through situational questions. Although, it seems additional screening is necessary for long term projects. The ability to listen and comprehend, asking questions for better clarity, are some of the traits that can be well ascertained even in telephonic interviews. Experienced project managers know that tech skills are easy to impart but soft skills are not, and both are equally important for seamless delivery especially in an enterprise environment.
Summing Up
Since the time that Python found its application in AI, ML and other data science projects, the need for Python programmers has seen a surge. Talent is not in deficit, but time certainly is. Hence, it is important to strategically hire Python developers so that the SDLC is accelerated, and business impact is minimized.