In today’s digital world, your website is the face of your business. Choosing the right web developer is one of the most important steps in building a strong online presence. But how do you know you’re making the right decision? By asking the right questions! Here are eight key questions to help you hire a web developer who aligns with your vision and can bring your project to life.
What Experience Do You Have in Web Development?
Start by understanding the developer’s background. Ask them about their past projects, especially ones similar to yours. Have they built websites for businesses in your industry or with similar goals? Their experience will give you a sense of how well they can handle your project.
Example of a good response: “I’ve developed e-commerce sites for small businesses like yours, including integration with Shopify and payment gateways.”
Bonus tip: Look for developers with a diverse portfolio. It shows they can adapt to different styles and challenges.
Which Programming Languages Do You Use?
Different websites require different tools. The programming languages and technologies a developer uses play a major role in your site’s performance. Ask which languages they are proficient in and if they align with your project needs.
Example of a good response: “I primarily use HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and PHP. For more complex projects, I also use frameworks like Laravel and React.”
Bonus tip: For e-commerce websites, ensure your developer is experienced with platforms like WooCommerce or Magento.
Can You Provide Examples of Custom Work?
Some developers use pre-built templates, while others create custom designs from scratch. Ask your developer how much customization they can provide. Can they build a unique site tailored to your brand? Or do they rely on pre-made themes?
Example of a good response: “I specialise in custom WordPress themes and have developed bespoke plugins to fit clients’ exact needs.”
Bonus tip: If you have specific business requirements, invest in custom work for better flexibility and scalability. Remember, good customization can set you apart from competitors.
How Do You Approach Responsive Design?
With more people accessing websites from mobile devices, responsive design is critical. Ask how the developer ensures your website will look and function perfectly on all devices—whether it’s a smartphone, tablet, or desktop.
Example of a good response: “I ensure every website is mobile-optimised by testing it across multiple devices and screen sizes before launch.”
Bonus tip: Don’t compromise on responsive design—Google prioritises mobile-friendly websites, which can directly impact your search rankings.
What Is Your Usual Project Timeline?
Time is crucial for any business. Ask how long the developer takes to complete a project similar to yours. This includes understanding their process, how they handle deadlines, and if they can meet your expected launch date.
Example of a good response: “A standard 10-page business website usually takes 4-6 weeks, including revisions.”
Bonus tip: Always get a clear timeline with milestones. This not only helps track progress but also ensures there are no surprises or delays along the way.
What Is Your Testing and Debugging Process?
No website is perfect on the first try, which is why testing is so important. Ask your developer about their testing methods. How do they ensure the site runs smoothly across different browsers and devices?
Example of a good response: “We conduct cross-browser testing on Chrome, Safari, and Firefox, and mobile testing on both iOS and Android devices.”
Bonus tip: A good developer will have a solid debugging process in place to quickly identify and fix any issues before the site goes live. Don’t forget to ask how they handle post-launch bugs!
What Ongoing Support Do You Provide?
Your website will need updates and maintenance after it goes live. Ask what kind of ongoing support the developer offers. Will they provide security updates, content changes, or troubleshoot any issues?
Example of a good response: “I offer monthly maintenance plans that include security patches, performance monitoring, and minor content updates.”
Bonus tip: Establish a long-term support plan. This will give you peace of mind knowing your website will remain up-to-date and secure, even after the initial launch.
Can You Provide References or Case Studies?
The best way to know how a developer works is by hearing from their past clients. Ask for references or case studies that showcase their previous work. This will help you see their skills in action and give you confidence in their ability to deliver.
Example of a good response: “Here’s a case study of a website we built for a small business that increased their conversions by 30%.”
Bonus tip: Don’t just look at the final product—ask how the developer worked with clients, handled feedback, and managed challenges.
Still Unsure About What to Ask When Hiring a Custom Web Developer?
No worries! With Kipanga, you don’t have to stress about asking the right questions. With more than two decades of experience in custom web development, we’ve worked with a range of clients, from local businesses to international brands. Our team knows what it takes to bring your vision to life, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Ready to get started? Let’s build something amazing together!
Final Thoughts
Hiring the right web developer is a critical decision that can have a lasting impact on your online presence. By asking these essential questions, you’ll ensure that you hire someone who not only has the technical skills but also understands your vision and goals.
Pro Tip: Communication is key! A web developer who communicates clearly and frequently is more likely to meet your expectations and deliver a successful project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I hire a web developer instead of using a website builder?
Hiring a web developer offers more flexibility and customization, allowing you to create a unique site that matches your brand’s identity, rather than relying on templates.
How can I tell if a web developer is overcharging me?
Compare quotes from multiple developers, and ask for a breakdown of costs. Avoid developers who offer an unusually low price—they may cut corners.
What skills should a good web developer have?
A good web developer should have a solid grasp of programming languages (HTML, CSS, JavaScript), experience with content management systems, and an understanding of responsive design and SEO best practices.
How do I make sure my developer understands my business goals?
Communication is key! Clearly outline your goals, target audience, and project expectations during the initial meeting. Regular updates and feedback sessions will ensure the developer stays aligned with your vision.
