How to Hire a Good Web Developer

…and why a good web designer is worth their weight in gold

Starting a business or launching a new website can be overwhelming. One critical aspect of your online presence is the development of your website. Hiring a web developer to build a professional and functional website is a crucial step towards success. To help you find the right person for the job, I have put together a guide on how to hire a good web developer.

Do you need to hire a web developer?

Hiring a web developer is necessary if you lack the skills or time to build a website on your own. While DIY website builders like Wix and Squarespace are user-friendly, they may not provide the functionality or customization that your business requires. A professional web developer can design a website tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Where can I find a good web developer?

You can find a good web developer through various online platforms such as Upwork, Freelancer, and Fiverr. These platforms offer a wide range of freelance web developers with different levels of experience and expertise. However, it is essential to read reviews and portfolios carefully and conduct an interview to ensure that the developer has the necessary skills and experience for your project.

Review Developer Portfolios and Pre-Qualify Them With These Tests

When considering developers, be sure to review their portfolios to ensure they have the experience and skills to deliver the quality of work you’re looking for.

This is what you need to do and look for:

Use the search tools on the site to find developer who meet your needs: Are you local? Do they have a high star rating from past customers? Do they charge an amount that you can pay? Etc.

Then for each developer you look at, do these tests:

1. Look at their portfolio to make sure they have work that looks like what you are looking for. They should have multiple work examples showing the type of work you need. This tells us they are not new to this and have experience.
2. Look at their star rating from past customers and read reviews.
3. Check that they charge an amount that you are comfortable with.
4. If you still feel interested send him a short note with a brief description of your project just a couple of paragraphs. Ask them if they would like to talk to you more about this and how soon they would be able to take on your project. Explain that you need a developer who is a solid communicator and that you will hope that they will be able to communicate with you on a daily basis clearly about the status progress and any questions regarding your project.

This last test is the big one.

We are trying to find out if they are quick to respond, if they are clear in their communication, if their English is good, and if you feel comfortable with their level of interest in your project and their communication.

Communication with your developer is extremely critical and we need to make sure that anybody that you are considering will be a good communicator.

I notice overseas developers are cheaper – is this a good idea?

Hiring overseas web developers may seem like a cost-effective solution, but it comes with risks. Communication issues, cultural differences, and time zone differences can lead to misunderstandings, delays, and poor quality work. Additionally, you may face legal challenges and difficulties with enforcing contracts in case of disputes.

Is a web designer and a web developer the same thing?

A web designer and web developer are not the same thing. While web designers focus on the visual aspects of the website, such as layout and color scheme, web developers focus on the technical aspects, such as coding and programming. Depending on your project’s complexity, you may need to hire both a web designer and a web developer.

How much will I have to pay for my website?

The cost of a website depends on various factors such as the website’s complexity, functionality, and design requirements. Hiring a professional web developer can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the scope of your project. It is essential to have a clear understanding of your budget and communicate it to your developer to avoid any misunderstandings.

Are there ongoing fees for maintenance? Do I have to keep paying?

Maintaining a website is an ongoing process that requires regular updates, backups, and security checks. Some web developers offer ongoing maintenance services for a fee, while others include maintenance in their initial pricing. It is crucial to discuss maintenance requirements and costs with your web developer before finalizing your contract.

What if I have a disagreement with my web developer?

Disagreements may arise during the web development process, and it is crucial to address them promptly and professionally. It is recommended to have a clear and detailed contract that outlines the project’s scope, timeline, payment terms, and dispute resolution procedures. In case of disagreements, try to negotiate a solution that works for both parties. If necessary, seek legal advice or mediation.

Do I need a contract before I start working with a web developer?

Yes, having a contract is essential before starting a web development project. The contract should include all project details such as scope, timeline, payment terms, intellectual property rights, confidentiality, and dispute resolution procedures. A well-drafted contract can protect both parties from potential legal issues and ensure that the project is completed successfully.

In conclusion, hiring a good web developer is a crucial step towards building a professional and functional website that meets your business needs. By following the guidelines in this article, you can find the right web developer for your project and avoid potential pitfalls.

Remember to take the time to research and interview potential candidates, review their portfolios and reviews, and communicate your project’s requirements and budget. Having a clear and detailed contract can protect you and your web developer from legal issues and ensure that your project is completed successfully.

In the words of Neil Patel, an online marketing expert,

“Your website is the center of your digital ecosystem, like a brick and mortar location, the experience matters once a customer enters, just as much as the perception they have of you before they walk through the door.”

Take the time to find the best, most reliable, reasonable web designer or freelance web developer you can – it will pay off nicely over time. Don’t rush too fast to begin your project unless you feel like you’ve done your due diligence before paying and hiring a new web dev person or firm.