Hiring a web developer is a little like hiring a contractor to renovate your kitchen.
The finished product matters a lot. But so does the person doing the work. How they communicate, how they handle problems, what happens after the project is done, all of that affects your experience just as much as the final result.
Most people focus on price and portfolio. Those things matter. But there are questions that will tell you a lot more about whether someone is actually the right fit.
Here’s what’s worth asking before you commit.
About the Work Itself
What platform will you build my site on, and why?
There’s no single right answer here, but there should be a real answer. A good developer can explain their recommendation and how it fits your specific needs. Be cautious of anyone who builds everything the same way regardless of the project.
Will I be able to update the site myself?
Some developers build sites that are easy for clients to manage. Others build in a way that keeps you dependent on them for every small change. Know which you’re getting.
Who owns the site when the project is done?
This should always be you. Make sure the hosting account, domain, and all website files are in your name, not theirs.
Do you have experience with businesses like mine?
Not a dealbreaker if they don’t, but relevant experience can save a lot of back-and-forth. Someone who has built sites for service businesses understands different things than someone who mostly builds eCommerce shops.
About the Process
What do you need from me to get started?
A developer who has done this before will have a clear answer. This also tells you how organized and prepared they are before a project even begins.
How do you handle revisions?
Find out how many rounds of revisions are included and what happens if you need more. Surprises here are common and worth clarifying upfront.
What does your timeline look like?
Ask for a realistic estimate and what factors might affect it. A developer who can’t give you any sense of timeline is a yellow flag.
How do you communicate during a project?
Email? A project management tool? Phone calls? There’s no wrong answer, but make sure it works for you. More importantly, ask how quickly they typically respond. Communication is one of the biggest pain points people have with developers, it’s worth asking about directly.
About What Happens After
What happens if something breaks after launch?
Websites need ongoing attention. Plugins update, things break, security patches need applying. Ask what support looks like after the project closes out.
Will you be available for updates and changes down the road?
Some developers disappear after launch. Others offer ongoing support as part of a maintenance plan. Know what you’re signing up for.
Do you offer any kind of ongoing maintenance?
A well-maintained website is not a one-and-done project. If a developer has no answer for this, you’ll be on your own when things come up (and things always come up).
A Few Practical Ones
Can I see examples of sites you’ve built?
A portfolio is standard. If they don’t have one, ask why.
Do you have references or reviews I can look at?
Past clients are your best signal. A developer confident in their work will have no problem pointing you toward them.
What’s included in the quoted price, and what would cost extra?
Get this in writing. Scope creep is real, and a clear contract protects both of you.
The right developer makes the whole process feel easy. The wrong one can cost you time, money, and a lot of frustration.
These questions won’t guarantee a perfect experience, but they’ll help you go in with your eyes open, and they’ll quickly separate the developers who take their work seriously from the ones who don’t.
If you’d like to talk through your project with someone who’s easy to communicate with, contact Formosa Web for a free consultation.
