7 Tips on Choosing an App Developer for Small Businesses
About 80% of users say the overall usability of an app is of the highest level of importance. How your app functions, looks, and feels can impact the user experience. If you want to create an impressive app, you need an impressive app developer first.
Here are seven tips that can help when choosing an app developer for your next project. Using these tips will streamline your search for a talented developer.
Otherwise, someone who lacks the necessary app development experience might impact your path to success.
Start your search and begin vetting your app developer options with these simple tips today!
- Gather Referrals
First, turn to other professionals within your network. Determine if any of them have hired an app developer in the past. If they have, ask for their help choosing an app developer.
For example, you can ask about the criteria they prioritized during their search. Otherwise, consider asking:
- Was the developer experienced and knowledgeable
- Are you satisfied with the outcome of your app
- Did you encounter any problems
- Would you hire them again
- How much did their services cost
Speaking with business owners you trust can help you find a trustworthy developer. Don’t hire the first recommendation you receive, though. Instead, use the rest of these tips to narrow down your app developer options.
During your search, it’s important to consider your distinct needs. Look at the apps made for other businesses. Which apps meet your preferences and expectations?
Speak with those business owners first. You’ll have an easier time finding a developer who can meet your needs, too.
- Look for Experience
Once you have a list of app developer options to sort through, learn about each developer’s professional history. First, determine how long they’ve worked in app development. Consider how many apps they’ve worked on in that time, too.
You might find that many developers have only worked on one or two apps in the past few years. In some cases, that’s normal. Consider how much work they’ve put into each app.
Look for someone with hands-on app development experience. Make sure their experience aligns with your distinct needs, too.
For example, you might want to find someone who has worked for a business similar to yours. Think about the functions and features you want to include in your app. Make sure the developer has had experience with similar app features.
Choosing someone with relevant app development experience will give you peace of mind in their abilities. If they haven’t successfully completed a project, take your business elsewhere.
Learn about the developer’s credentials, too. What education and training have they completed?
Determine if they remain up-to-date with new industry trends as well. Their up-to-date knowledge could benefit your own project. These developers will have an easier time helping you impress your target audience.
- Check Their Portfolio
If you want to learn more about each developer’s experience, ask for proof of their work. Reviewing their portfolio and discussing some of the projects they’ve completed in the past.
For example, you can explore this invoicing app for ideas.
Reviewing each developer’s portfolio will help you determine if their work meets your expectations.
As you review their work, make note of certain elements you want to feature in your own app. Making note of those elements at this stage could help you in the future. You’ll have an easier time communicating your needs and expectations when it’s time to get started.
- Read Reviews
Before choosing an app developer, turn to the people who were once in your shoes. Ask each developer on your list for at least three references. Try to speak with some of their most recent clients.
About 93% of customers read reviews of businesses to determine their quality. You can, too.
Speaking with their clients can help you determine what it’s like to work with the developer. Make a list of questions you want to ask before each call.
For example, was the developer easy to contact and communicate with? Did they meet the client’s project requirements? If the client experienced any issues with the developer, ask how those problems were resolved.
Otherwise, look online. Reading online reviews will give you additional insights into each developer.
Choose a developer who already has a strong professional reputation in the industry. You’ll have peace of mind choosing a developer other business owners already trust.
If they have an abundance of negative reviews, however, remove them from your list of options.
- Discuss Your Goals
Schedule a consultation appointment with at least three different developers on your list. Then, outline your goals and expectations. Ask each developer if they’re capable of meeting the scope of your project.
Ask them about their work process, too. For example, what do they need from you before getting started?
Someone with app development experience will already have a plan in place. They’ll know how to work efficiently. Someone new to the industry, on the other hand, will still need to get their footing.
If the developer isn’t able to meet your goals (including your timeline), turn elsewhere.
- Consider Customer Service
Before making your final choice, make sure the developer you choose is responsible and responsive. Look for comments about their customer service. Make sure they’ll keep you informed as they work on your app.
You can avoid hiring a developer you’ll struggle to reach in the future by reading online reviews.
- Consider Pricing
Before hiring a developer, consider your app development budget. Then, ask three different developers on your list for an estimate of their services.
Requesting more than one estimate will help you determine the average price for development services. If one price seems too high, question why. Perhaps that developer has more experience than others.
Don’t choose a developer who quotes the cheapest price. If they’re new to the industry, they might use competitive pricing to attract customers.
Instead, choose someone who can accomplish your goals and deadline.
Start Coding: 7 Tips for Choosing an App Developer for Your Project
Don’t make the mistake of choosing an app developer based on price alone. Instead, use these tips during your search. With these tips, you can vet your add developer options to make a more informed choice.
Start searching using these simple tips today.
Searching for more tips, tricks, and guides? You’re in the right place.
Explore our latest articles today for more.
