Choosing a web developer is mostly about avoiding the problems that only show up later: a site you don't own, a developer who disappears, or a quote that keeps growing. These ten questions will tell you most of what you need to know.
1. Will I own the website?
You should own the design, the content, the domain and the code once the project is paid for. Get it in writing.
2. Will I get every login and password?
At handover you should receive access to the hosting, the domain, the website admin and anything else the site depends on. A developer who keeps hold of these keeps hold of you.
3. Is it a template or a custom design?
Neither is wrong, but you should know which you're paying for, and the price should reflect it.
4. Can I see live websites you've built?
Screenshots are easy to fake. Ask for live sites you can click through on your phone. Our portfolio links to every live project.
5. Is the quote fixed?
A fixed quote off an agreed scope protects both sides. Ask what's included, how many revisions you get and what would cost extra.
6. What's the timeline, and what do you need from me?
A good developer will give you a realistic timeline and tell you what could delay it, which is usually content.
7. Who hosts the website, and can I move it?
Hosting with your developer can be convenient, but you should always be free to move. Avoid contracts that make leaving difficult.
8. What happens after launch?
Websites need updates, backups and security checks. Ask whether the developer offers maintenance, and what happens if the site breaks or gets hacked.
9. Will it work properly on phones?
Most of your visitors are on their phones. Ask how the site is tested: on real devices, or just by resizing a browser window.
10. Who will I actually be dealing with?
Find out whether the person you meet is the person doing the work, and who you'll talk to when something needs fixing a year from now.
The short version
Look for a developer who gives you a fixed quote, hands over everything at the end, shows you live work, and is still around after launch. If you'd like to put these questions to us, get in touch.