Top .NET Developers & Development Companies

.Net Development

The relatively recent explosion of web technologies has created something of a new problem for businesses. Those companies who wish to take advantage of more efficient processes can now create custom applications to automate their internal workflow. However, the reality is that most companies are not technology based and therefore are out of their element when attempting to achieve this.

Microsoft's .NET Framework, which is an application platform designed to allow programs to run on Microsoft's Windows operating systems, is one of the most prevalent methodologies for accomplishing this. Enabled by the widespread adoption of Windows in so many homes and businesses, Microsoft has focused on creating tool sets for software engineers that allow them to work effectively on Windows-based software.

.NET development can be targeted for both Windows desktop, or for the web where the operating system is much less important. As with most Microsoft technologies, .NET works well when integrating with other products from the same company, but may not work as easily with competitor's products. Developers who work with .NET are usually fluent in the programming languages VB.NET and C#, although many also write code with C++ or F#. Microsoft compiles all of these languages, with the exception of unmanaged code, to a single interpreted language so that regardless of language, the compiled application executes under Microsoft's CLR, or Common Language Runtime.

.Net Developers and Development Companies

Working with .NET software engineers is somewhat dependent on the type of work and skill set needed. While many developers can write both desktop or web based software, there may be a focus on one or the other. Companies who are looking to push their applications online should consider the intended applications and interview accordingly. However, it should be noted that many businesses make the mistake of only asking potential candidates strictly obscure technical questions. This is a classically poor way to find programmers, yet due to the heavy need for technical knowledge, it is often used as a hiring crutch.

Many times it may be best to bring in an outside firm that can help with staffing levels and application development. It is important if looking for a development consulting company to understand that the relationship cannot be 'out of sight, out of mind', but instead, engaged. The firm will only be able to deliver as much and as well as the business can communicate requirements. Too many companies simply hire a vendor to provide application development and then think that the work will be done like magic without any further input.

When selecting a partner to help with .NET development, be sure to review previous work and look at several options. Many firms rely on the fact that companies don't know the difference between high quality technical work and mediocre coding. There are spectacular coders and firms out there, so businesses should not settle for the first one they contact. Trying to dig into the personality of the company is key, because the ongoing work will only become tougher as deadlines loom and requirements are changed. It's never a good time to find out the company being partnered with is not reliable just as the product is about to ship or be deployed.