Five Things To Look For In A Web Developer

So you’ve read the ten reasons why you need a website, and you’re ready to get going. Where to start? Well, there’s always FusionAge, but even if you don’t choose us, we want you to be confident in who you do choose. So for those seeking a web developer to assist them in having an online presence, here are five tips to finding the right one.

Is this their full time job?

Many freelance web developers have this “jack-of-all-trades” mentality. Unfortunately, the other half of that cliche is that they are the master of none. You don’t want someone who specializes in plumbing, television repair, car detailing, and dog grooming doing your website do you? Don’t be afraid to ask this question, a good web developer is dedicated to their profession, whether full-time, or are employed as a web designer for a company and freelance on the side. Also, many good web developers got their start in web development as a hobby, not for the money.

Experience matters

Anyone can go to their local software store, purchase a web design application and start designing pages, no argument there. But are they really a web developer? The web was invented in 1989, and didn’t become the phenomenon it is until the mid 1990s. So even someone who has 5-7 years experience is an “old-timer.” The web is a rapidly changing medium, and a good web developer will change with it.

Check their portfolio & references

Every web developer should have a portfolio of their work. Also look at their site overall—is it well designed and does everything work? Testimonials and all the certifications in the world do not equal proof of competency. Their portfolio also lets you get a feel for their style, and what other types and sizes of businesses they have worked with. In comparison to a resume, it’s our references section—and don’t hesitate to check them. Call their previous customers and ask them how it was to work with them, and if they are satisfied with their website.

Communication

The most common complaint we hear from our customers is that their previous web developer was “hard to get a hold of.” So ask your potential web developer questions—lots of them. Look for their passion—they should welcome your questions and enthusiastically answer them. Let them know what you want, and then ask them how the process works. This not only gives you an idea of their expertise, but also how they communicate. Send a couple emails, does it take them a week to respond? Do they answer the phone or return your call promptly? Ask if they provide timely status updates on your site.

Pricing

This is the most commonly misunderstood aspect of getting a website. Sure, your brother-in-law’s former roommate’s cousin can do a website on the cheap, but what are you going to get? You should treat your website as if it were any other marketing material—it represents you, and the old adage is true—you get what you pay for. Going too cheap is one thing, but you should also be budget-conscious. Treat it like any other business decision and shop around, talk to them, and get estimates. Combined with the first four tips, you decide whether they value their service correctly.