How to Find the Right App Modernisation Partner in Five Steps  

As an Azure Specialist for ISVs with extensive real-world delivery experience, Node4 understands the factors that make or break an app modernisation partnership. Follow our advice to build the best possible shortlist for your next app modernisation partner.  

1. Ask to see their accreditations upfront  

Modernising your application (or developing something entirely new) is one of the most significant decisions an ISV makes.  

The partner you choose must be exceptionally well-qualified for the job. For the utmost confidence in your modernisation partner’s capabilities and security, only shortlist those organisations with a substantial portfolio of independently verified accreditations.  

For example, ISVs should look for the exclusive Azure Specialist for ISVs and Microsoft Azure Expert MSP accreditations in addition to those listed in our infographic. 

It’s doubtful that an organisation without these accreditations will be suitable long-term, so save time and eliminate them from your app modernisation partner shortlist early on.  

2. Confirm their scope of Azure expertise  

Almost every ISV modernising its applications will utilise Azure in some shape or form – even if at the very fringe of its infrastructure.  

However Azure, whether used for development or deployment, is far more than an alternative hosting option. It’s a specialist area and must be treated as such when building an app modernisation partner shortlist.  

Check for evidence of end-to-end Azure skills, investment and technologies. Expertise should span DevOps, consultation, governance, landing zone deployment, migration, hybrid infrastructure and ongoing managed services.  

All these services are fundamental to app modernisation. When delivered by one partner, you can be confident that your project will be tightly controlled and delivered to spec on budget. 

3. Look for proven delivery of several pathways  

If you find your ISV accommodating an app modernisation partner, rather than the other way round, cross them off your shortlist.  

An ideal app modernisation partner will offer ISVs flexible paths forward and not limit you to specific technologies or cookie-cutter roadmaps. A broad portfolio is critical, but abundant case studies – demonstrating experience of delivery and the knitting together of solutions – are even more important.  

Don’t shy away from being direct with your shortlisted partners either. Ask if you can speak to customers with similar requirements or backgrounds; for example, businesses that have experience dealing with significant legacy or safety-critical infrastructure would be of use.  

4. ESTABLISH WHETHER THERE’S ROOM FOR GROWTH

Imagine your frustration finding your original app modernisation partner unable to deliver on your ISV’s growth ambitions, even just a few short years later.  

Change must be frictionless in such a fast-moving line of business, heavily dictated by competitor movement and consumer trends. As a result, it’s wise to undertake due diligence on your potential app modernisation partner’s ability to scale infrastructure and evolve capabilities in line with your transformation goals.  

In addition to putting digital transformation and enablement at the heart of ISV services, keep a look out for other tell-tale signs such as investment in proprietary solutions, partnerships with leading tech names and a burgeoning list of ambitious clients.  

5. DETERMINE THE DAY-TO-DAY REALITY 

Maintaining the availability, performance and agility of applications is a full-time job. As a result, many ISVs continue with a partner for support – DevOps, security or otherwise.  

If this is your intention, your ISV should also consider day-to-day working relationships as a shortlisting factor. Granted, you have no crystal ball in which to look, but you can begin piecing clues together before signing on the dotted line.  

For example, Service Level Agreements, customer experience initiatives, data centre performance and testimonials create a fair picture of a collaborative dynamic.  

Also, prioritise partners who own, manage and operate their infrastructure. Your ISV will benefit from seamless service and 100% accountability thanks to a single contact and 360 visibility.  

UNEARTH NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR GROWTH WITH NODE4

We aren’t here to just help you sell more – we’re here to understand your business priorities and customers’ needs. From colocation to Azure, dedicated hosting to hybrid architectures, Node4 has your ISV covered.  

Discover how we can help you drive change that matters with our Profitability Playbook – your guide to high-margin, sustainable cloud partnerships. Get instant access here.