Articles and Presentations

"7 Questions to Ask When Hiring a Web Developer"

October, 2000

By Paul Borgese

Your Web site is your Internet lifeline. The Web vendor you choose can make or break your e-business. By asking a few key questions you can avoid some of the major pitfalls that have crippled many companies' Web initiatives.

(1) What services do you provide?
Some Web firms concentrate only on front-end design while others focus on backend technology solutions. As e-business becomes more complex, you may find yourself managing multiple vendors. It is always much easier to work with one firm that can provide a total solution. More and more Web firms are starting to extend their offerings to include everything from strategy to Web development to marketing and public relations. It is important to find out what services the firm offers and make sure they meet your requirements. Basically, you should know exactly what you are, — and are not — getting from the developer. In addition, depending on the type of project, it may be important for you to work with a company that has experience in your industry.

(2) How can I avoid the typical cost overruns that plague most IT projects?
First, it is important to understand the difference between simply putting up a Web site and launching an e-business. According to recent surveys, e-business sites with standard e-commerce and basic interactive technologies can cost upwards of $1 million. Find out how developers bill, whether it's time and materials, fixed cost or a retainer. Keep in mind that in addition to development fees, there are ongoing costs for site maintenance including hosting, additional programming and content updates. Make sure the contract with your vendor clearly delineates the scope of the project. Work with your Web vendor to develop a sound Web strategy and development plan from the beginning, as changes midstream can be very costly. Finally, you should request weekly budget and status reports so that you can catch any cost overruns early.

(3) Who specifically will be working on my project?
Different firms have different ways of assigning staff to a project. Make sure that you understand who is the principal contact, and what their role is on your job. Make sure that you understand how staff will be assigned to your project, and at what stage each member of a team will be brought in. Sometimes, a full development team or a stable of coders isn't necessary; firms can save you money if they outsource some aspects of the project. You should also ask about the firm's employee turnover rate.

(4) Who are your past clients?
Take some time to review the Web vendor's portfolio of clients. Look at the sites they've designed, the technologies they've developed and implemented and the Web marketing programs they've employed to determine whether or not they are the right solutions provider for you.

(5) What differentiates you from your competitors?
It seems as though everyone from teen entrepreneurs to major consulting firms is getting into the Web development business these days. Ask your potential Web vendor what differentiates them from the pack, and specifically what they can bring to your project that others can't.

(6) What kind of support can I expect once the Web project is complete?
Once your Web site is built, there are certain post-production services that are key to the ongoing success of your e-business. For example, will your vendor provide you with documentation that will enable you to facilitate the further development of your site? Will the vendor provide you with ongoing content management services or offer training to your staff? You should look for vendors who are interested in maintaining a long-term relationship with your company, especially if you don't have in-house Web expertise.

(7) What are my responsibilities as the client?
A careful understanding of the responsibilities of both parties is vital to successful Web development. Make sure that you are comfortable with your project responsibilities. Understand what media assets the firm will need from you, (print materials, photos, text, video clips, etc.) so that you can expedite the process by preparing them. Your deliverables are just as important as your developers'. Be sure that your deadlines are met so as to avoid cost overruns and time delays.