Software Development

15 Questions to Ask Before Hiring a Web Developer

Iguana TechnologiesNovember 10, 20265 min read
Wordpress developer working on his laptop

Hiring a web developer is a significant decision for many businesses.

Whether you’re building your first website, redesigning an existing site, or developing a custom application, asking the right questions can help you understand what you’re buying and what to expect.

Here are 15 questions worth asking before signing a development agreement.

 

  1. Can I See Examples of Your Work?

Ask to see real projects.

Look for websites similar in complexity to what you need.

Don’t just look at screenshots. If possible, visit the actual websites and test them on desktop and mobile devices.

 

  1. Have You Built Websites Similar to Mine?

Industry experience can be helpful, but technical and project experience may be even more important.

Ask whether they’ve built similar functionality.

For example:

  • E-commerce
  • Booking systems
  • Customer portals
  • Membership systems
  • API integrations
  • Custom web applications

 

  1. What Is Your Development Process?

Ask how the project moves from an idea to a finished website.

A professional process might include:

  • Discovery
  • Planning
  • Design
  • Development
  • Testing
  • Launch
  • Maintenance

 

  1. Who Will Actually Build My Website?

Some companies handle development internally.

Others outsource some or all of the work.

Ask who will actually be responsible for your project and who you’ll communicate with.

 

  1. What Technology Will You Use?

You don’t need to be a programmer to ask this question.

The developer should be able to explain:

  • What platform will be used?
  • Why is it appropriate?
  • Can it grow with the business?
  • What are the ongoing costs?
  • What limitations should you know about?

 

  1. Will the Website Work on Mobile Devices?

Make sure responsive design is part of the project.

Ask how the website will be tested across different screen sizes.

 

  1. Is SEO Included?

Clarify exactly what is included.

Technical SEO, content strategy, keyword research, and ongoing SEO are different services.

Understanding the scope prevents misunderstandings.

 

  1. Will I Own My Website?

This is an important question.

Ask about ownership of:

  • Website code
  • Content
  • Images
  • Domain name
  • Hosting account
  • Databases
  • Design assets

Make sure you understand what you own and what is licensed.

 

  1. What Happens After Launch?

Ask about maintenance and support.

Find out whether they offer:

  • Security updates
  • Backups
  • Bug fixes
  • Technical support
  • Content changes
  • Ongoing development

 

  1. How Do You Handle Website Security?

Ask how the developer approaches:

  • Secure authentication
  • Software updates
  • Access controls
  • Backups
  • Data protection
  • Monitoring

Security should be considered throughout development, not added as an afterthought.

 

  1. What Happens if I Want Changes?

Projects evolve.

Ask how revisions and additional functionality are handled.

Understand whether changes are included in the original price or billed separately.

 

  1. What Is the Estimated Timeline?

Ask how long the project is expected to take.

A professional developer should be able to explain the major phases and factors that could affect the schedule.

 

  1. What Will It Cost?

Ask for a clear breakdown.

Understand:

  • Development costs
  • Hosting
  • Domain registration
  • Software licenses
  • Third-party services
  • Maintenance
  • Future development

Avoid comparing quotes based only on the final number.

 

  1. How Will We Communicate?

Determine how you’ll communicate during the project.

Ask about:

  • Email
  • Phone
  • Video meetings
  • Project management tools
  • Progress updates

Clear communication helps keep projects moving.

 

  1. What Do You Recommend for My Business?

This may be the most revealing question.

After explaining your goals, ask the developer what they would recommend.

Pay attention to whether they immediately try to sell you a specific product or take the time to understand your needs.

 

The Right Questions Lead to Better Projects

A website is an investment in your business.

Taking time to understand the development company, process, technology, ownership, costs, and support can help you make a more informed decision.

At Iguana Technologies, we believe clients should understand what they’re investing in and why.

We work with businesses on professional websites, e-commerce, custom applications, integrations, and ongoing website improvements.

Have questions about your next website project? Contact us at Iguana Technologies and let’s discuss what your business needs.

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