Start with the problem, not the technology
Write down the operational pain: stockouts, fee collection delays, manual leases, disconnected sales orders, or paper attendance. A strong partner will map that problem to modules and workflows before quoting a stack. If a company starts with buzzwords instead of your process, keep looking.
Ask for proof that matches your industry
Request demos or walkthroughs for similar work — school, inventory, property, construction, distribution, or custom portals. Portfolio pages should describe modules and workflows, not only marketing adjectives. Prefer teams that can show how users complete a real day-to-day task.
Evaluate discovery and communication
Good Ethiopian software projects usually start with discovery workshops, written scope, roles, and acceptance criteria. Confirm who you will talk to after contract signature, how change requests are priced, and how training is delivered for Amharic- or English-speaking staff.
Check support and ownership
Clarify hosting, backups, source-code ownership, admin access, and post-launch support hours. Local Addis Ababa presence helps for onboarding and troubleshooting. Be cautious of unverifiable “#1” claims or inflated years of experience.
How Abyssinia Software approaches engagements
Abyssinia Software Technology PLC is based in Megenagna, Addis Ababa, with 3+ years of delivery experience and 200+ customers served. We combine product-style systems (school, inventory, property, construction, e-learning) with custom software when workflows are unique. Contact us for a consultation grounded in your actual process.