AI or Google? How to Properly Formulate Requirements When Searching for a Software Development Company

“We need an app.”
“We’re looking for someone to build an information system.”
“App development Brno?”

This is exactly how the search for a digital solution provider often begins. But here’s where the first problem can arise: we don’t know how to clearly define what we’re actually looking for. As a result, we end up asking the wrong questions – in Google, in AI tools, and even in the inquiry form.

Common Mistakes When Looking for a Development Partner

• Too General a Search Query

For example, “app development” will return hundreds of results - from freelancers and articles to university theses. Try to be more specific, like: “custom mobile app development Brno”.

• Unclear Requirements

Not sure whether you need a mobile app, a website, or a cross-platform portal? Until that’s clear, it’s hard to find the right development partner.

• Unrealistic Expectations

Cost? Scope? Timeline?
If you’re unsure, that’s okay - but you need a partner who will help you clarify everything from the very beginning.

How to Search Smarter

• Define the Problem, Not the Technology

Don’t ask “What technology should I use?” - ask “What problem am I trying to solve?”.

• Use Specific Terms and Focus Areas

For example: “business app for logistics” is much more precise than the vague term “logistics app”.

• Don’t Be Afraid to Use AI Tools

If you’re unsure how to phrase your request, try ChatGPT or Bing Copilot. But even there, the rule applies: a good question = a good answer.

How to Ask ChatGPT

AI works best when it has context.

Wrong:
“How to build an app for events?”

Better:
“We’re an event agency based in Brno and we need a mobile app with centralized management (single administration) and offline functionality for various events. What are our options, and what should we consider when it comes to development?”

Tips:

• Briefly explain who you are and what problem you're solving
• Describe the situation or tell a short story
• Ask about possible solutions, not just the price

How to Ask Google

Google doesn’t understand context - it works with keywords.

Wrong:
“App for events”

Better:
“App development with single administration for events Brno”

Tips:

• Use Precise Keywords (features, industry, location)
• Look for Testimonials and Case Studies
• Try using a foreign language by translating the phrase "App development for events with single administration Brno" into it

Specific Example, Recommendation and Checklist

ChatGPT query:
“We are a logistics company and want to develop a mobile app for tracking shipments and optimizing routes. What are our options and which Brno-based development company would be ideal for this?”

Google query:
"Mobile app development for logistics Brno"

Recommendations from Practice

• Make a short list (5–10 points) outlining what you need, who the app is for, and what problem it should solve.
• Focus on the problem you want to solve, not the specific technology.
• Contact several development partners, but make sure they all receive the same assignment.
• A good development partner will support you right from the specification and analysis stage.

Checklist: Things to Prepare Before Contacting an App Development Company

• What problem do I want to solve?
• Who will be using the app or system?
• Mobile, web or both?
• Will the app need to integrate with any other systems or tools?
• Is there a similar solution you like?

It’s not about where you ask the question - whether it’s Google, an AI tool, or a development company.

What matters is how you formulate the question. And if you're not quite sure what you're actually looking for, the right development partner will help you figure it out - even before the first line of code is written.