Today, if a company doesn’t have a website, it essentially doesn’t exist on the internet. A website is more than just a business card; it’s a powerful tool for attracting customers. But here’s the question: how do you find a developer who will deliver exactly what you need without burning out halfway through?
In this article, we’ll explore the types of developers out there, essential skills to look for, how to evaluate a strong portfolio, and how to assess cost estimates. Most importantly, we’ll do it with a touch of humor so that you don’t get bogged down by dull technical jargon.
1. Freelancers Freelancers are often the choice for startups and companies with limited budgets. Why? Because this option is flexible, cost-effective, and allows for negotiating specific services. However, there’s a catch – finding a reliable freelancer can be as tricky as catching the last bus home at night.
Pros: Affordable, flexible, and willing to handle urgent tasks. Cons: Risk of low-quality work, delayed deadlines, and limited oversight.
2. Agencies and Studios For large projects requiring a comprehensive approach, an agency or studio is the best choice. Here, you’ll find a team that includes not only developers but also designers, content managers, and SEO specialists.
Pros: A comprehensive approach, experience with large projects, quality guarantees. Cons: More expensive than hiring a freelancer.
3. In-house Developers If your project is extensive and your company can afford a full-time development team, it’s best to hire in-house specialists. They will work on the project daily, monitor every detail, and implement changes promptly.
Pros: Continuous control over the project, ability to respond quickly to changes. Cons: Highest expenses, requires management and constant involvement.
Portfolios – Seeing Their Work
What should you look for in a portfolio? Take a look at the kinds of websites the developer has created before. If they specialize in landing pages, but you need an e-commerce site, there’s a risk they may not be equipped to meet your needs.
Platform Type: Tilda, WordPress, or custom development? Each platform has its own nuances, so it’s crucial to know which experience is necessary for your project.
Key Points: Responsiveness: The site should work well on all devices. Load Speed: If the site takes longer than three seconds to load, users are likely to leave. Navigation and Structure: If it’s hard to find things on the site, that’s a red flag.
Tip: Don’t buy a pig in a poke! Ask for links to real projects and check how they perform yourself.
Skills and Experience – Key Questions
What technologies do they use? A developer who is well-versed in HTML, CSS, and JavaScript will know how to create a solid website. And SEO? That’s essential too! Especially if the site is meant to sell products or services.
Does the developer understand your industry? It’s essential for the developer to understand your business. If they’ve only built sites for cafes and you’re in construction, it’s worth discussing how well they understand your field.
What’s their approach to revisions? Professionals clarify all terms upfront so you know if you’ll be charged for modifications at every stage.
Transparency in Pricing – What to Expect on the Invoice
Why is it important to know the price in advance? When it comes to money, no one likes unpleasant surprises. Ask questions upfront – what’s included in the price, and will there be additional charges?
What to consider when assessing costs:
The number of pages on the website.
Design and responsiveness.
Number of services/products.
Loading speed and optimization.
Analytics integration and ad setup.
Integration with platforms.
Working with a Developer – From Negotiation to Launch
1. Creating a Clear Brief A detailed technical specification is your guarantee that the final product will meet your expectations. It should cover not only functionality but also the visual style tailored to your target audience.
2. Timeline Planning Realistic timelines are key to project success. Don’t be afraid to ask how long it will take, but remember – faster doesn’t always mean better.
3. Testing and Launch Before launching the site, it’s essential to test it across all platforms, ensuring it works on mobile devices, tablets, and desktops.
Conclusion
Choosing the right developer for your website is a crucial step that can impact your business’s success. Study their portfolio, don’t hesitate to ask about their skills, and demand pricing transparency.
And remember, if you’re looking to get a quality website or modify an existing one, come to us for a free consultation! We’ll help you make the right choice and guide you on the best way to bring your project to life.