So, you need a website. Awesome! It’s an exciting step for any business or project. But then comes the budget. And let’s be honest, we’ve all been tempted by those “too good to be true” deals. “Website for $50!” “Landing page in 24 hours!” I’ve been there, both as a client and as a web developer, and let me tell you, sometimes “cheap” ends up being the most expensive option in the long run.
Over the years, I’ve learned that a good website is an investment, not just an expense. It’s your digital storefront, your first impression, and often the primary way potential customers interact with your brand. Cutting corners can seriously impact your business. That’s why I wanted to share three crucial questions you should ask any web developer before hiring them, especially if their prices seem suspiciously low. These questions aren’t about being difficult; they’re about protecting your investment and ensuring you get a website that actually works for you.
1. “Can you show me examples of websites you’ve built that are similar to what I’m looking for?”
This is the most fundamental question. Don’t just ask for a portfolio; ask for examples of sites that are similar to your vision. If you’re an e-commerce business, you don’t want to see a portfolio full of blogs. Look for relevant experience. And don’t just look at the design; dig deeper. Are the sites fast? Mobile-friendly? Easy to navigate? Do they rank well in search engines (if that’s important to you)? A good developer will be able to explain their design choices and the technical considerations behind them. If they can’t, that’s a red flag.
My experience: I once hired a “cheap” developer who showed me a beautiful portfolio. However, when I asked for examples of e-commerce sites (my need), they showed me a couple of very basic sites with limited functionality. It became clear they didn’t have the experience I needed, and I ended up wasting time and money.
2. “What is your process for development, from start to finish?”
A clear and well-defined process is essential. A good developer will have a structured approach, including things like:
- Discovery: Understanding your needs and goals.
- Design: Creating mockups and wireframes.
- Development: Building the actual website.
- Testing: Ensuring everything works correctly.
- Deployment: Launching the website.
- Maintenance: Ongoing support and updates.
Ask about their communication style. How often will they provide updates? How will they handle feedback? A developer who can’t clearly explain their process is likely to be disorganized and difficult to work with.
My experience: Early in my career, I worked with a client who hired a developer who had no clear process. Communication was terrible, deadlines were missed, and the final product was a mess. It was a nightmare to clean up, and it taught me the importance of asking about the process upfront.
3. “What happens if something goes wrong after the website is launched? Do you offer ongoing support?”
Websites aren’t “set it and forget it.” Things break, updates are needed, and you might need help down the line. Ask about their support policy. Do they offer a warranty period? Do they charge for ongoing maintenance? What is their response time? A cheap developer might disappear after the initial launch, leaving you stranded if something goes wrong.
My experience: I’ve seen so many businesses stuck with broken websites because they hired a cheap developer who offered no support. They end up having to hire someone else to fix the mess, which often costs more than if they had invested in a reputable developer in the first place.
These three questions are just a starting point, but they should give you a good sense of a developer’s skills, experience, and professionalism. Don’t be afraid to ask follow-up questions and dig deeper. Remember, a good website is an investment in your future. Taking the time to ask the right questions upfront will save you time, money, and headaches in the long run. And sometimes, paying a little more for quality is the best investment you can make.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the process of finding the right developer, or if you’d like to discuss your website needs with someone who prioritizes quality and long-term success, I’d be happy to chat. Feel free to reach out for a free consultation – let’s build something amazing together!
