In today's tech industry, where competition is fierce and technologies have become commoditized, the way businesses select their partners has evolved significantly. Gone are the days when the choice was primarily about the tech stack or budget. Now, companies look beyond these factors to find partners that can truly stand by their side, offering not just technical expertise but also strategic support to achieve their goals. Companies look for accountable partners who can lift the burden together with them.

## The endless pricing game

Often, we come across customers who say, "I can have this built for half the price" or "I know a person who can do this with Wordpress". This perspective is completely normal and even welcomed. Competition is an endless part of our business world, driving us to continuously improve.

However, the truth is, no one can win the pricing game. There will always be at least ten cheaper competitors out there who claim to do the same job or even promise to do it ten times better. Competing on price alone is a game no one can win.

## Cheap price, poor results

In fact, making decisions based solely on price can lead to "cheap" outcomes, where the cost saved upfront is overshadowed by the need for rework, missed deadlines, or lack of strategic alignment.

This often results in frustration and additional expenses as businesses scramble to fix issues that could have been avoided with a more strategic approach. Ultimately, the initial savings can end up costing more in the long run, both financially and in terms of lost opportunities.

## Success in tech is a teams sport

Imagine a startup with a groundbreaking idea poised to disrupt the market. They envision a revolutionary platform that will set them apart from their competitors. They have the vision and the funding, but what they truly need is a team that comprehends their mission and can transform it into a reality. Now, consider if their main concern is the budget. Is skimping on quality really the best way to achieve innovation?

Think of it like building a house. If you use the cheapest materials, you might save money initially, but the structure will be weak, requiring constant repairs and never truly standing firm. Similarly, using the most inexpensive tech solutions might save costs upfront, but it will likely lead to subpar results, frequent issues, and ultimately, a failed project.

Or, picture trying to build a healthy body by eating the cheapest, least nutritious foods. Sure, you save money on groceries, but at what cost to your health? The same principle applies to tech projects. Opting for the lowest bid often means compromising on quality and experience, leading to poor performance, lack of innovation, and ultimately, a failure to disrupt the market as intended.

The right tech partner offers more than just technical skills. A cross-functional team that can code, advise on best practices, anticipate challenges, and provide solutions that align with the company's strategic plan is invaluable. This type of partnership goes beyond merely delivering a project; it involves becoming a strategic ally, invested in the client's long-term success. By prioritizing quality and strategic alignment over mere cost, businesses can truly innovate and achieve their disruptive potential.

## Building longterm collaborations

The game we can win is the one in which a team delivers, becomes a vital foundation of an organization's success, and eventually turns into a lifelong partner. This game deserves our attention and focus. While it may not be cheap, it is not necessarily unaffordable.

Investing in a team that can offer strategic insights and unwavering support ensures businesses are not just keeping up with the competition but setting themselves up for long-term success. This is the real value a dedicated team brings to the table – not just completing a project but becoming an integral part of their clients' growth and success stories. Cheers!!

Publications about "Startups"

How much do you evaluate a successful partnership?

Savvas Voumellis

Head of Delivery and Product Strategist