The Nitty-Gritty of Cooperation with Embedded Systems Companies

By: Segiy Sergienko, 2 Dec 2020
3 minutes

Reading Time: 3 minutes

The major trend and of all contemporary industries is the drive for integration, which is also on top of the challenges list .

Naturally, the digital sector (and SirinSoftware as a part of it) moves within this mainstream realizing that the time of standalone solutions is irrevocably over. Today, the entire IT community is abuzz with embedded technologies where embedded computer systems play a pivotal role.

EMBEDDED TECHNOLOGIES SCRUTINIZED

Smart embedded computing relies on a system that comprises a combination of computer hardware and software designed to perform a specific function as a part of a larger whole. Mostly, embedded computer systems are single-functioned although some state-of-the-art solutions are programmable, which gives them a certain degree of flexibility in employment.

Embedded systems architecture consists of three elements: hardware, software, and (in more sophisticated real time embedded systemsReal Time Operating System (RTOS). The hardware of such systems is either microcontroller- or microprocessor-based both of which provide the system with smart embedded computing power. The software puts the hardware elements into operation. RTOS establishes the way the whole system works, defining rules pertaining to the execution of the program. It is a sine qua non if the system is designed to react to the environment in real-time on the spot. Optional components of an embedded system include memory, connected peripherals, and embedded systems security solution.

EMBEDDED DEVELOPMENT FEATURES

Specialists of embedded systems companies stress that design metrics for such systems are especially rigid. They must be of a definite size, power, and performance speed to fit the location and function they are supposed to be operating in. That is why they are slower to develop and take longer to market. However, being easily tailored to the unique needs of customers, consuming scanty power, and costing little, the products of embedded technologies find extensive application for many purposes.

Today, one can see such complexes in vehicles (cruise and suspension control, navigation and airbag systems), mobile phones (GUI, cameras, USB modules), medical equipment (various control mechanisms), agricultural devices (sensors of different kinds), numerous IoT gadgets. Their sphere of usage is constantly expanding, so it is no wonder that many entrepreneurs hire embedded systems companies to develop the system for their specific case. 

Yet, selecting an outsourcer that will deliver a high-quality product on time without making a hole in your pocket is quite tricky. 

 

GETTING THE BEST OF EMBEDDED SYSTEMS COMPANIES: IMPORTANT CLUES

Having accumulated both significant experience in developing real time embedded systems and enormous practice of interacting with clients, our company can give you some tips on how to go about it. 

Expertise and Experience Rule

A preliminary examination of an outsourcer’s portfolio is a must. If it contains a fair number of successful projects covering various kinds of embedded solutions across several industries the odds are that this company will handle your assignment as well. Moreover, the greater the experience is, the more likely such developer is to come up with transformative ideas and innovative approaches to the project you have in mind for them.

Technical Stack Matters

Since embedded projects may vary, there is no universal list of technical skills software engineers must possess to handle them. Yet, advanced knowledge of General-Purpose Operating Systems (GPOS) and RTOS as well as proficiency in top programming languages (C or C++ for sure) is crucial for accomplishing all of such projects.

Different types of embedded systems architecture may also require skills in Java, Python, Ethernet, or TCP/IP, so it is necessary to envision what you want to see in the final product before actually looking for people who will implement it.

 

Look for Hardware-Hardened Ones

 

Smart embedded computing is all about machines that will leverage relevant software, so being in the know of data processing power, memory volume, HDD/SSD capacity is pivotal for those who will build solutions for you. Being able to recommend the latest innovations in the field, outsourcers are sure to add value to the development process. 

Opt for Flexibility

The quick tempo of progress in the IT world spells being open to novelties and changes. If outsourcers cease to keep abreast of what is going on in their realm they are likely to supply you with outdated solutions or obsolete approaches. Another side of flexibility is being able to scale the team up or down and react promptly to shifting requirements of clients and altering environment.

Agile Practices are Welcome

Since implementing an embedded project takes quite a time, it is important to have a well-mapped strategy for accomplishing it and keep track of the major milestones on the way to completion. Agile methodology is a handy tool to that end, so companies leveraging it definitely have an edge over those who rely just on “we know how to do it” and “your project is moving on all right”.

TO SUM UP

In our technology-driven world, embedded systems are swiftly becoming ubiquitous. Hiring embedded systems companies, you should pay attention to some fundamental aspects that will allow you to meet deadlines and eventually get a high-quality product. SirinSoftware with its committed team of experts is an outsourcer that can deliver you a top-notch embedded solution at a reasonable price.