How to identify and select the right digital product agency

If you’re reading this, your (product) company, or the (product) company you work for, is running an endless race to either become or stay market leader in whatever industry you’re in. And that’s no easy job! Backlogs are overflowing and it’s hard to keep up. At some point you may want to consider hiring a digital product agency. But how do you make sure you pick the right agency to work with? The first step is obvious, yet important.

1. Determine your goals and desired outcomes

When selecting a digital product agency, it's crucial to begin by defining your project goals and preparing a thorough brief. Think of it as laying the groundwork for a successful collaboration. Your project goals serve as a compass, guiding the agency toward your desired destination. Meanwhile, the brief acts as a roadmap, providing clear directions, expectations, and boundaries. It's your chance to paint a clear picture of your what your project entails. This thoughtful approach sets the stage for a productive partnership and increases the likelihood of achieving your objectives effectively.

2. Double-check if the agency offers the services you need

If your company has been around for some time chances are you know what specific services you’re looking for. Think of it as assembling a dream team tailored to your project needs. Whether it's UX research & design, SEO expertise, Product design, Front-end and/or Back-end development, ensuring the agency has the right skill set is paramount. Equally important is how well an agency knows how to work together with your in-house team. So, before making a decision, assess not only the services offered but also how well the agency aligns with your in-house team's working style and objectives. This harmony will set the stage for a successful partnership and optimal results.

3. Review their portfolio

This one is obvious, but needs mentioning. You should *always* examine a agency’s portfolio. Think of it as flipping through the agency's past projects to get a glimpse of their creative prowess and problem-solving skills. By looking at their portfolio, you can see if their work  aligns with your (brand's) vision and if they've tackled projects similar to yours. Have they worked on full fledged projects start-to-finish? Or are they experienced in creating enticing web experiences? Don’t skimp on time and take a peek at their portfolio. After all, you’ll ideally want to go for a lasting partnership.

4. Look for understanding of your industry

A fingerlicking good portfolio is nice, but what good is it if the agency doesn’t know the challenges your company faces considering the industry you’re in. A good agency doesn't just know how to code or design; they understand the ins and outs of your industry. From industry jargon to market trends, this knowledge shapes their strategies. So, seek out partners who speak your industry's language fluently. When your agency truly understands your sector, they can craft digital solutions that resonate with your audience and drive results.

5. Make sure they have a flexible mindset

Flexibility is key when choosing a digital product agency to collaborate with. In the ever-evolving digital landscape, your needs and requirements may change over time, and you need an agency that can adapt accordingly. Whether it's accommodating shifts in project scope, incorporating new technologies, or meeting specific technical requirements, a flexible agency can pivot gracefully to keep pace with your evolving needs. They're not just service providers; they're agile partners who can navigate the twists and turns of your digital journey with ease. In the fast-paced world of digital, flexibility isn't just a bonus—it's a necessity for success.

6. Read client references and reviews

Needless to say it’s wise to do a little detective work and check out reviews and testimonials from their previous clients (like the ones we proudly share with the world). Think of it as seeking references before hiring a contractor for your home—you want to hear from others who have walked the path before you. Reviews and testimonials offer valuable insights into the agency's reliability, professionalism, and the quality of their work. They provide a glimpse into what it's like to work with the agency, straight from the horse's mouth. By listening to the experiences of others, you can gain a better understanding of what to expect and make a more informed decision.

7. Consider your budget

Yes, you’ve probably tackled this in your brief I mentioned earlier. But of course it’s essential to consider your budget constraints and evaluate an agency’s pricing structure. Just as you budget for any other expense, understanding what you can afford upfront helps narrow down your options. Some agencies work on a project RPF basis while others charge by the hour or month even, regardless of the outcome. It’s important to figure out what’s important to you; a mere quantity of features without any guarantee of what they’ll look, feel and work like? A smaller feature scope with a higher quality stamp? Or somewhere in the middle? Take your time to weigh your options and choose an agency that offers the best balance of quality and affordability.

8. Go for a value and culture match

Collaborating with an agency that shares your values is crucial. When your values align, it ensures that both parties are working towards the same goals with a shared sense of purpose. Whether it's a commitment to transparency, innovation, or customer satisfaction, shared values lay the groundwork for a productive and authentic partnership. So, when selecting an agency, prioritize finding one that mirrors your values—it sets the stage for a partnership grounded in mutual understanding and trust. 

In conclusion, choosing the right digital product agency is crucial. Set clear goals, ensure seamless collaboration, assess industry understanding, review portfolios, check client testimonials, and evaluate pricing. Take your time and choose wisely. If you're ready to see if we're the right fit, get in touch with us today!