Our industry experts ranked the top software development companies in Chicago that build high-performance solutions to help brands meet their business goals. Use the filter to select the best partner for your needs and take advantage of these companies’ high-quality services and nationally competitive rates.
Organic rankings are determined by five factors: top services, reviews, portfolio, awards/press, and team expertise. Sponsored listings pay for a placement that appears above organic positions. Sponsorship does not affect star ratings or review content - read more on our methodology page.
Trusted business advisors dedicated to transforming lives through proven IT solutions...
Top Services:
- Managed Services
- IT Services
- Web Development
- Software Development
- Digital Marketing
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
Faye stands at the forefront as global Salesforce consulting firm + SugarCRM and marketing automation consultants, turning software into pure efficiency. Our certified team excels in integrating platforms like SugarCRM, Zendesk, and Salesforce, ensuring optimized tech stacks for businesses. Powered by an...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- IT Services
- CRM Consulting
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Portfolios Count
- 5 Projects Listed
Kumo Partners is a forward-thinking consultancy firm that offers a diverse range of services tailored to guide businesses towards success in a rapidly evolving digital landscape...
Top Services:
- IT Services
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $200/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 5 Projects Listed
Clique is an award-winning team of digital strategists, designers, and engineers. We help companies define and express their brand through engaging websites that position them to stand out amongst the competition. From startups to fortune 500s, our work turns heads and grows businesses...
Top Services:
- Web Design
- Digital Services
- Design Services
- Creative Services
- Software Development
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $150/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $25,000 - $50,000
- Portfolios Count
- 11 Projects Listed
Altec Design has been delivering robust internet solutions to leading companies in St. Louis Mo since 2004. Unlike large companies that offer generic solutions, we believe in crafting customized products and services tailored to meet your unique requirements...
Top Services:
- Web Design
- Web Development
- Software Development
- PPC
- SEO
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $99/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
Caxy Interactive is a Chicago-based web design and development firm specializing in User Experience and Agile-driven software and technology development. We help clients break new ground, find new customers, and engage existing ones in unexpected ways...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Software Development
- Web Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $199/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $50,000 & Up
Begin Software provides low-risk AI and automation solutions, empowering SMBs with scalable competitive advantages. The agency's expertise includes strategic automation implementation and the realistic infusion of AI into business operations. With a focus on swift and cost-effective app launches, Begin...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $149/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
At Koombea, we specialize in building world-class digital products that users love, with a focus on mobile and web apps through our custom Agile methodology. Our process has been tested and proven through our 1000+ projects with clients from all over the globe. We take pride in our ability to build...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Software Development
- Web Development
- UI/UX Design
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Minimal Budget
- $50,000 & Up
Foxbox Digital, headquartered in Chicago, is a digital product agency that has been recognized with awards. We collaborate with clients of various sizes, from Fortune 50 companies to fast-growing startups, to design, develop, and launch digital experiences that succeed...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Software Development
- UI/UX Design
- Web Development
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $99/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $50,000 & Up
Lakeview Labs, founded in 2013 in Chicago, has exclusively worked with high-growth startups and mid-sized companies in Chicago and the Midwest, developing over 30 apps over the years...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Web Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $149/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
We have extensive global resources, deep industry, business process, and technological expertise, as well as a track record of producing uplifting success tales for businesses all over the world...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Software Development
- Software Testing
- Wearables
- CRM Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Average Hourly Rate
- $40/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $25,000 - $50,000
Uniqcli is a provider of cutting-edge technology committed to providing innovative solutions to businesses of all sizes. With an emphasis on quality and customer satisfaction, we are pleased to serve more than ten Fortune 500 companies. As industry pioneers, we are committed to remaining ahead of the curve...
Top Services:
- eCommerce Development
- Web Development
- Web Design
- Digital Marketing
- HR Outsourcing
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $120/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
Our team of expert software engineers leads our clients through the product development process, laying out clear expectations and goals to hasten the product's time to market...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Staff Augmentation
- Digital Strategy
- eCommerce Development
- UI/UX Design
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $49/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 2 Projects Listed
We collaborate with forward-thinking individuals and groups to assist them in conceiving and developing innovative, elegant and ground-breaking software solutions to challenging issues...
Top Services:
- Web Development
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Web Design
- Cloud Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Average Hourly Rate
- $199/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
CSW Solutions specializes in cutting-edge Microsoft technologies, helping businesses adopt and integrate these technologies. Our management solutions and services tackle evolving business issues, empowering you to model your business for future expansion...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Web Development
- eCommerce Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $149/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
React, Node.js, PHP, and React Native for cross-platform mobile development are our main technologies. We have extensive knowledge of almost all of Amazon Web Services' features, including AWS Fargate, AWS Lambdas, and many others...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Blockchain
- Cloud Consulting
- Web Development
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $149/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $25,000 - $50,000
DataMade, a Chicago-based civic technology firm, recognizes that while data can be readily available, comprehending it can be challenging. With this in mind, we specialize in translating complex data into straightforward, appealing, and actionable websites...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Business Consulting
- UI/UX Design
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $199/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
With 2,500+ consultants across the US, Canada, Latin America, and India, Improving puts experienced technologists in your market, not just on your project. Our teams understand the regulatory landscape, industry norms, and technical expectations of the markets you serve...
Top Services:
- IT Services
- Software Development
- Cloud Consulting
- DevOps Consulting
- Managed Services
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 1000 & Up
- Average Hourly Rate
- $199/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
Nerdery is a digital business consultancy that operates at the forefront of strategy, design and technology, helping clients succeed. Going beyond traditional consulting, consider us your allies in your digital journey...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 500 - 999
- Average Hourly Rate
- $199/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $50,000 & Up
Sanai is a chicago based American web development, software development, Social Media Marketing and SEO consultancy company who provide focused and tailored made solutions especially designed for you...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Branding
- Web Development
- Mobile App Development
- Digital Marketing
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
Leo Technosoft (LTS), the top offshore development firm, offers affordable, scalable, and flexible IT services. With over 14 years of industry expertise, LTS excels in Product Development, Mobility, Solution Engineering, IoT, and Business Intelligence services. Through the LTS Accelerator model, we support...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Cybersecurity
- UI/UX Design
- Software Development
- IoT
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Average Hourly Rate
- $60/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
- Portfolios Count
- 5 Projects Listed
Engineering Industries eXcellence (Engineering IndX) is the driving force of digital transformation in the industry. As an eminent division of the globally recognized Engineering Group, our role as system integrators shapes tomorrow's world...
Top Services:
- IT Services
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 1000 & Up
- Portfolios Count
- 3 Projects Listed
At Stretch PR, we set goals and we achieve them stretching to deliver results beyond expectations. We do this by developing creative strategies that garner attention, setting goals, executing flawlessly and measuring results...
Top Services:
- Digital Marketing
- Content Marketing
- Social Media Marketing
- Public Relations
- Video Production
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $250/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $25,000 - $50,000
Delegate your business solution development to our trusted experts in the field of IT services, Software (full-stack) development, Web design, App design, and Digital marketing...
Top Services:
- Digital Services
- Web Development
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Web Design
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $30/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
CodingCops is an AI-native technology and engineering partner specializing in AI development, vetted engineering talent, Salesforce, product & software development, and cloud & DevOps...
Top Services:
- AI Development
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Staff Augmentation
- DevOps Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 250 - 499
- Average Hourly Rate
- $35/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 3 Projects Listed
Named Best AI Company and Software Development Company by The Netty Awards, Opinov8 is a global technology firm with development hubs across the United States, Europe, and Egypt...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- UI/UX Design
- Web Development
- Big Data Analytics
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 250 - 499
- Average Hourly Rate
- $42/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $50,000 & Up
- Portfolios Count
- 3 Projects Listed
Ruteappz is an IT consulting and software development company dedicated to creating and transforming products, services, and enterprises. Our goal is to drive business growth both today and in the future by leveraging innovative solutions and cutting-edge technology...
Top Services:
- Web Design
- eCommerce Development
- Web Development
- WordPress Website Design
- Digital Marketing
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $20/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 1 Project Listed
Leadgamp is a premier truck driver staffing agency dedicated to meeting the specific recruitment needs of the transportation and logistics industry. The agency specializes in providing a streamlined hiring process for all truck driver types, from company drivers to owner-operators. With innovative recruitment...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $49/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
AppCrops is a next-gen technology partner delivering end-to-end digital solutions for startups and enterprises. From interactive user-friendly iOS, Android or Custom Mobile applications to Web apps, ERP systems and custom software, we help transform ideas into high-performing digital products...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Web Development
- eCommerce Development
- Software Development
- Web Design
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Average Hourly Rate
- $50/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 4 Projects Listed
DMC is a project-based engineering consulting firm focused on software development and control systems. We develop and implement solutions for a wide range of industries using a variety of technologies and platforms. Since 1996, DMC has succeeded in helping hundreds of clients increase efficiency and...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 250 - 499
Meridian IT has been a leader in the UKs enterprise technology sector since 1979 because weve always put people first. To help our clients to succeed, we need to be confident that our own team has what it takes. Thats why weve focused on building up the strongest commercial and technical services teams in the...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
Uncap is a B2B ecommerce agency and Shopify Platinum Partner in Chicago. Shopify migrations, Shopify B2B builds, and ERP integrations with NetSuite, Dynamics, Acumatica, Epicor, Infor, and Sage for manufacturers, distributors, and wholesalers. Six in-house Shopify apps. 380+ projects since 2013...
Top Services:
- eCommerce Development
- Web Development
- Web Design
- UI/UX Design
- eCommerce
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
BlueROCK was founded on the premise that all companies should have a trusted software development partner for unbiased technology advice and guidance. Without ties to any particular product or vendor, and with expertise across all industries, BlueROCK is able to leverage the most cost effective solutions...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
At Liventus, we're more than just a custom software development company we're your trusted partner in leveraging technology to drive business success. With over 22 years of industry experience, we've honed our expertise in crafting tailored tech solutions that meet the unique needs of businesses across...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
Sketch Development Services
VerifiedVerified by the DesignRush team for authenticity and credibility.Sketch delivers AI-enabled custom software and DevOps via a subscription model with two-week delivery cycles, citing zero missed deadlines. Its team serves Fortune 500 clients and is best suited for product teams needing a transparent, agile dev partner without long-term contracts...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Cloud Consulting
- UI/UX Design
- eCommerce Development
- DevOps Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Minimal Budget
- $50,000 & Up
- Portfolios Count
- 8 Projects Listed
SoftDoes is a Kansas City custom software and AI development company that designs and builds web platforms, mobile apps, MVPs and AI automation. Written scope and price before code, 100% IP ownership, rated 5.0 on Clutch...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- AI Development
- Mobile App Development
- Web Development
- UI/UX Design
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Average Hourly Rate
- $75/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 10 Projects Listed
Codiantix is a software and creative agency delivering next-generation digital solutions from custom websites and mobile apps to full-stack software systems and UI/UX design. We help startups and enterprises scale with technology that performs...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Web Design
- Web Development
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $5/hr
- Minimal Budget
- Under $1,000
- Portfolios Count
- 2 Projects Listed
Capital S Consulting helps businesses improve their processes by connecting their business systems, implementing CRM systems, creating environments that give your employees confidence to deliver great experiences for your customers...
Top Services:
- CRM Consulting
- Software Development
- Big Data Analytics
- Managed Services
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
HIPAA Software Development is a dedicated healthcare technology solution hub operated by Taction Software, focused on delivering secure, scalable, and fully compliant healthcare software solutions for organizations across the United States. Taction Software® (Taction Software LLC) is a registered U.S...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- Software Development
- ERP Consulting
- AI Development
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Average Hourly Rate
- $45/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
- Portfolios Count
- 1 Project Listed
Cplusoft is a trusted AI development company that offers enterprise-grade intelligent software, machine learning, automation, and custom AI solutions...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- AI Development
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $20/hr
- Minimal Budget
- Under $1,000
Dev Centre House Ireland is a leading software development company in Ireland, delivering bespoke AI, web, mobile, and blockchain solutions across tech. Our local team and 100+ engineers help Norwegian enterprises build scalable, cutting-edge digital products...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- Web Development
- Cloud Consulting
- DevOps Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Average Hourly Rate
- $29/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
WareGo is a leading provider of Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) and supply chain technology, dedicated to eradicating inventory chaos through intelligent automation...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- IT Services
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 100 - 249
- Average Hourly Rate
- $25/hr
- Minimal Budget
- Under $1,000
- Portfolios Count
- 1 Project Listed
Digitally Hatch is a full-service digital agency helping small and medium-sized businesses compete, grow, and scale online. We combine strategy, creativity, and technology to deliver solutions that actually move the needle from high-converting websites and mobile apps to performance marketing, branding, SEO...
Top Services:
- Web Development
- eCommerce Development
- Web Design
- SEO
- Digital Marketing
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Average Hourly Rate
- $20/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 20 Projects Listed
IT Impact, Inc. delivers custom database and software solutions using Microsoft technologies. Through its Access Experts division, the company specializes in Microsoft Access development, database repair, system upgrades, and migrations to SQL Server and cloud platforms...
Top Services:
- IT Services
- Big Data Analytics
- Software Development
- Cloud Consulting
- ERP Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $235/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
- Portfolios Count
- 3 Projects Listed
Gumbo is an AI implementation studio helping companies move from single-player AI usage to multiplayer systems where humans and AI agents work side by side. We design and deploy AI-powered workflows, agents, internal tools, and operational systems that create shared context, memory, and compounding...
Top Services:
- Mobile App Development
- AI Development
- Software Development
- Business Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Minimal Budget
- $25,000 - $50,000
Provitrac is a cloud-based Applicant Tracking System (ATS) and recruiting software designed to streamline hiring workflows, manage candidates, post jobs, and help HR teams hire top talent faster all from one easy-to-use platform...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Staff Augmentation
- Cloud Consulting
- IT Services
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 250 - 499
- Average Hourly Rate
- $5/hr
We help early-stage startups build market-ready applications, and mid-market firms achieve tangible ROI with AI and Digital Transformation initiatives...
Top Services:
- Software Development
- Mobile App Development
- AI Development
- Software Testing
- IT Services
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- Under 49
- Average Hourly Rate
- $200/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $10,000 - $25,000
Hydepark Designs builds professional education websites, LMS platforms, apps, branding, AI automation, and marketing systems for academies, course creators, schools, and service brands...
Top Services:
- Web Design
- Web Development
- Digital Marketing
- Graphic Design
- Branding
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Average Hourly Rate
- $30/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $1,000 - $10,000
Kennel Software for advanced pet care management. Using this software will allow you to perform many routine tasks quickly and easily, making for better use of your valuable time. Its straightforward options make it simple to use, and you will be up and running in no time...
Top Services:
- WordPress Website Design
- SEO
- AEO
- Software Development
- CRM Consulting
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Average Hourly Rate
- $20/hr
- Minimal Budget
- Under $1,000
The Office of Experience (OX) is a Chicago-based digital agency helping ambitious B2B companies outperform their peers. At the intersection of customer experience, marketing, and technology, OX unites strategy, design, and engineering to transform how companies connect with customers. Capabilities span B2B...
Top Services:
- Digital Strategy
- UI/UX Design
- eCommerce Development
- Web Design
- Digital Marketing
- Show more
- Location
- Chicago, Illinois
- Number of Employees
- 50 - 99
- Average Hourly Rate
- $175/hr
- Minimal Budget
- $25,000 - $50,000
Related Services in Chicago
Software Development Companies Near Chicago
Popular Services
What Makes Software Development Companies In Chicago, IL Unique?
The Chicago tech industry is growing. According to CBRE’s annual 2019 Tech-30 Report, the city is a top destination for expansion from San Francisco tech companies.
The sector has over 73,000 workers and has added about 4,582 new jobs between 2017 and 2018.
This is why the city attracts and employs some of the most skilled talents out there.
What’s more, the cost of living in Chicago is -42.5% lower than NYC. So, Chicago employees would get -12.4% lower salaries than their NYC-based colleagues.
In other words, they would also charge less for their products.
So, working with a Chicago software development firm would mean getting high-quality services at more affordable rates.
They have accumulated a deep understanding of the locally dominant industries including:
- Manufacturing
- Transportation
- Information technology
- Health services
Thereby, they can deliver high-end products particularly for clients in these sectors.
What Does A Chicago Software Development Firm Do?
Software development companies in Chicago offer custom solutions that meet the unique needs of their clients and help them manage their businesses better.
Organizations across the US and the world outsource end-to-end and specific software development projects to Chicago including:
- Mobile applications: From architecture to launch and maintenance, Chicago-based developers handle application development from start to finish. They are qualified in building products for different operating systems including Android, Windows and iOS.
- Intranets: They build local communication networks to improve internal interaction, connect companies across locations and time zones, help employees find information, simplify their onboarding and more.
- Websites: A Chicago software development firm specializes in developing high performing websites that help businesses attract quality traffic, engage and convert their visitors into paying customers.
- Customer relationship management systems (CRMs): These agencies build CRMs that allow organizations to enhance their customer service, simplify their sales and marketing processes, make their call centers more efficient and improve customer loyalty.
- And more
How Much Do Software Development Companies In Chicago Charge For Their Services?
Software development companies in Chicago will have different pricing structures and quotations for the same project.
Some will demand minimum project sizes that can be anywhere between $10,000 to $75,000+.
Others will charge per resource (i.e. developer or other IT professional) and/or per hour.
Here, after the organization creates the cost, expect an average rate of $100-$150 per hour.
Some organizations are able to offer more competitive prices by maintaining offices or subcontracting developers in developing countries. Be sure to clarify this beforehand as it may impact on your development process.
Finally, it is important to note that quality plays an important role in pricing, but so does prestige.
If the Chicago software development firm you are screening command prices that are above the market average seek justification for this.
Do not be starstruck by their brand name clients, but rather closely examine their portfolio and references.
We've ranked the best Salesforce developers.
Find them here!Why Hire A Chicago Software Development Firm?
Chicago is on the list of Arc’s Best Cities For Software Engineers 2019. The quality of life it offers attracts a top-notch talent that contributes to the growing tech sector.
These are the key benefits of partnering with a Chicago software development firm:
- Cost-effectiveness: Chicago has a lower cost of living than most of the other IT centers in the US. It means that the local software developers earn less than their peers in NYC and Los Angeles. So, they would charge less for their products. This is why they are a great choice to partner with for those who search the best of both worlds: high-quality solutions at affordable rates.
- Target market: Living and operating in the city, Chicago software developers have accumulated a deep understanding of the locally dominant industries. They have a unique insight into the local market, its trends, opportunities and challenges. So, they can help you reach your Chicago-based audience the best.
- Highly skilled talent: With a thriving tech industry and a low cost of living, Chicago attracts and employs some of the finest software developers in the country who offer internationally competitive products.
Software Development Companies in Chicago, IL: How To Choose The Right One
Your decision to onshore, i.e. develop your software project in the US, will surely save you more than a few headaches.
For one, you don’t have to work around multiple time zones which make scheduling anything, from scrum meetings to major deliveries, a nightmare.
You speak the same language, hence you minimize the chances of miscommunication.
You are familiar with the culture, both in its social and work sense, which is another crucial factor in communication as well as task and timeline planning, and overall expectations management.
In essence, hiring a custom software development company in Chicago as opposed to offshoring is advantageous in all senses except for the initial investment.
Here are the main questions to answer before outsourcing your project to a Chicago software development firm:
What Are Their Core Technological Strengths?
Assuming your requirement is clearly defined, the first question you should answer is whether the company you are screening has the expertise you need to get the work done properly.
Do they specialize in web or mobile solutions? Ecommerce? Wearables? IoT systems?
You will, ideally, want your development partner to have in-depth experience developing the type of solution you are commissioning.
Next, you will have to define the technologies and/or platforms upon which to build your solution.
Java? .NET? PHP? WordPress? iOS? Android? Salesforce? The list goes on and on...
Most software development companies in Chicago will offer consultancy services or incorporate product planning in their offering. This will encompass technology and platform selection.
While they are known for their professionalism, it is advisable to be conscious of the tech stack biases in IT organizations.
If the company you are screening claims to be open to exploring all technologies for your project, they still may be inclined to suggest the one that fits their preferences as opposed to your requirement.
This is why it is generally advisable to have a qualified in-house or independent consultant involved at this and later stages of your software development project.
Do They Have The Domain Experience You Need?
If the Chicago software development firm you are screening has already worked with clients in your sector, they will be better positioned to offer insightful solutions and move faster through all the stages of software development.
This is not to say that other companies should be discarded on the account of domain knowledge (or lack thereof).
If you are willing to invest time in their education, most software development companies in Chicago will welcome and swiftly rise to the challenge.
What Is Their Preferred Engagement Type And Development Methodology?
Ask your prospective development partner what their preferred client engagement and development methodologies are.
You will want to know what to expect from them just as much as what will be expected from you.
Working with software development companies in Chicago will presumably make regular meetings easier, but you will want to determine how often you’ll hold them per week or per month, and who should attend them.
How will you deal with setbacks or changing requirements? Additions and subtractions? Staff changes? Etc.
A reliable software company will have processes in place to cover all contingencies.
How Structured Are Their Communication Practices?
Speaking the same language doesn’t guarantee an understanding.
Software development companies in Chicago should have clearly defined communications channels and processes both internally and externally to facilitate ongoing conversations with clients.
This will make communicating and recording requirements, requirement changes, progress and deliveries easier and more transparent.
IT Companies In Chicago, IL: An Overview Of The City's Thriving Tech Scene
In this section, we use Information Technology (IT) as an umbrella term for software, hardware and everything in between to portray the true scope and potential of Chicago’s tech scene.
Whether you are looking to hire a Chicago software development firm or researching IT job opportunities, the city has a lot to offer.
Unlike its peers, Chicago-based companies, and other tech organizations for that matter, aren’t cocooned in a hub; They are scattered throughout the city which allows them to integrate with their host communities.
This, besides the affordable cost of living (as far as the US metropolises go), is quite possibly one of the main reasons why tech entrepreneurs and professionals are increasingly choosing the Windy City as their base.
In the continuation of the post, we look at some of the best-known IT / software development companies in Chicago and assess the size of the city’s IT workforce.
Name Brand Tech Companies With Offices In Chicago, Illinois
Here are some of the big tech brands that have offices in Chicago:
- Google’s Chicago office opened in 2000. Their headcount has grown to over 1,000 since, and it is said that the tech giant is now eyeing new locations within the city to house their team expansion plans.
- Address: 320 N Morgan St #600
- Team size: 1,000+
- Microsoft has a longstanding relationship with Chicago. They opened their first offices in the city almost three decades ago. The latest official records (2014) suggest the Chicago team is 500-people strong. However, if we were to go by LinkedIn, the team has more than doubled in the past five years.
- Address: 200 E Randolph St #200
- Team size: 1,000+ (unofficial)
- Facebook has been in Chicago since 2007. Last year, the company announced they were opening a new office in N. Franklin Street and adding over 500 employees to their Chicago-based team.
- Address: 191 N Upper Wacker Dr
- Team size: Undisclosed; Space designed to house 2,000 employees
- LinkedIn’s office opened in 2013 and was soon crowned the “coolest” workspace interior design in Chicago. Their own platform database suggests that the Chicago office houses approximately 800 employees.
- Address: 525 W Monroe St #200
- Team size: 800 (unofficial)
- Uber hints to an upcoming growth spurt of their Chicago team as the company recently leased The Old Post Office space that spans over 463,000 ft2. The team currently counts over 1,000 people.
- Address: Multiple / 300 N Elizabeth St
- Team size: 1,000+
- Yelp opened its Chicago office in 2015. The office started with 170 employees and ambitious plans to expand the team to 400 within a couple of years. Their LinkedIn page suggests that Yelp’s Chicago-based workforce is now just short of 1000.
- Address: Merchandise Mart
- Team size: <1,000 (unofficial)
- Salesforce arrived in Chicago in 2012 and have cultivated a workforce of over 1,000 since. They also recently announced expansion plans as they look to move into the Wolf Point South tower - an upcoming addition to Chicago’s skyline.
- Address: 111 West Illinois Street
- Team size: 1,000+
- Foursquare opened its new Chicago office in 2018 and the team is said to have been growing rapidly.
- Address: 225 W Ohio St
- Team size: Undisclosed
Award-Winning Enterprise Software Companies Headquartered In Chicago
These are the top award-winning enterprise software companies that have headquarters in Chicago:
- Basecamp is a world-leading project management platform with over 3 million user accounts.
- Sprout Social was founded in 2010 and currently employs about 500 employees. They build products for deeper social media insights and interactions.
- Yello is a talent acquisition software used by Fortune 500 companies.
- Cision is a PR platform with a database counting over 1.4 million media profiles and over 900 million social influencer profiles.
- OneSpan Inc.’s product portfolio caters to banking and finance, insurance and government organizations. Their solutions are used by more than half of the world’s top 100 banks.
- Centro was founded in 2001. Their suite of digital media services has won them numerous accolades including recognition from The Interactive Advertising Bureau (IAB) and G2.
- BigTime is a time, billing and project management software used by over 2,000 firms. The software processes over USD 2 billion of billable time per year.
- ActiveCampaign is a marketing automation platform known for its email marketing and sales CRM tools. Their user base is more than 75,000-strong.
Talent Pool: How Many IT Professionals Work In Chicago, Illinois
There are over 14,000 small to medium IT organizations, most of which are software companies, in Chicago.
The city consistently ranks among the top 5 in the US when it comes to IT job opportunities, currently employing almost 150,000 IT professionals.
Here is Chicago’s IT workforce in numbers (source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2018):
- 8,230 Computer Network Support Specialists - 2nd highest in the US
- 23, 010 Computer Systems Analysts - 3rd highest in the US
- 20,100 Computer User Support Specialists - 4th highest in the US
- 3,220 Information Security Analysts - 4th highest in the US
- 4,620 Computer Network Architects
- 9,710 Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- 3,020 Database Administrators
- 4,550 Web Developers
- 15,230 Software Developers (Systems Software)
- 26,860 Software Developers (Applications)
- 8,790 Computer Programmers
- 13,000+ Other IT Professionals
Looking for the best IT companies?
Find them here!Takeaways On Software Development Companies In Chicago, IL
Software development companies in Chicago offer high-quality services at affordable rates.
They deliver quality products for various sectors. However, they are most skilled in creating solutions for the locally dominant industries including:
- Manufacturing
- Transportation
- Information technology
- Health services
The recommended steps to selecting the right partner for your businesses are:
- Discovering the companies’ core strengths
- Understanding their domain experience
- Learning about the methodologies they use
- Understanding how structured are their communication processes
Software development companies in Chicago partner with businesses and organizations of all sizes, from startups to well established, local and global brands.
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