How to choose the right AI-savvy software development partner

Choosing a software development partner has always been a critical decision but when AI enters the mix, the stakes get even higher. You’re not just hiring a team to write code. You’re trusting them to help you navigate emerging technologies, manage risk, and deliver long-term value with tools that are still evolving.

So how do you know if a software partner is truly AI-capable and not just slapping “AI” on their website?

Here’s a robust RFP checklist you can use to vet potential partners and ensure they’re ready to help you succeed with AI-assisted development.

✅ 1. AI strategy & approach

• Do they have a clear framework for how they use AI in software projects?
• Can they explain when not to use AI?
• Do they blend AI tools with human expertise (rather than trying to fully automate everything)?
• Are their AI practices aligned with ethical and responsible development standards?

✅ 2. Tooling & platforms

• Do they use modern AI tools like GitHub Copilot, Cursor, or GenAI platforms?
• Can they develop on low-code platforms like  OutSystems using AI acceleration?
• Are they experienced in integrating third-party AI services (e.g., Azure OpenAI, AWS AI)?
• Can they build and fine-tune domain-specific models if required?

✅ 3. Governance & risk management

• Do they have an AI governance policy in place?
• Are they transparent about how AI-generated code is tested and validated?
• Are they ISO27001 certified or compliant with similar security standards?
• Can they provide clear documentation and audit trails for AI-assisted processes?  

✅ 4. People & experience

• Will your project be led by senior developers, not just AI prompt jockeys?
• Have they delivered AI-enhanced software in regulated or complex industries (e.g., finance, government, education)?
• Do they upskill their team regularly on AI best practices?
• Can they demonstrate proven delivery in both low-code and custom development environments?

✅ 5. Delivery process & outcomes

• Do they offer AI-powered discovery or assessments before a full build?
• Can they share real-world case studies of AI-assisted delivery (including performance metrics)?
• Is their process Agile, iterative, and user-centric or still stuck in waterfall?
• Do they deliver with speed and safety (not just hype)?

✅ 6. Values & alignment

• Are they a values-led organisation (e.g., B Corp or other ethical commitments)?
• Do they demonstrate transparency in pricing, delivery, and communication?
• Are they local or remote and how do they ensure accountability in delivery?
• Will they work as an extension of your team or keep you at arm’s length?

Final tip: don’t just look for “AI capable” – look for AI mature

A true AI-savvy partner won’t just drop buzzwords into your proposal. They’ll offer clear methodology, ethical guardrails, proven tools, and real impact. They’ll use AI to move faster but never at the cost of reliability or trust.

At Kiandra, we’ve helped clients reduce development time by up to 50% using AI-assisted practices, while maintaining full governance, quality, and transparency. We combine low-code platforms, custom engineering, and AI integration in a way that’s safe, smart, and human-led.

Ready to explore AI-powered development for your organisation? Request a free code assessment