When you’re confident in your idea and you’re ready to begin the search for a developer to help you build your on-demand app, one thing is certain – this can be a confusing, complicated process. How can you go about deciphering all of the terminology and prices that will be thrown your way? You may wish to take a look at our post on choosing a designed here.
Firstly, you may be tempted to try your luck on a website such as Kijiji or Craigslist. But in a situation like that, you need to be wary of the quality of work that you may get. Mobile app developers are in very high demand throughout North America, and you definitely don’t want to get stuck in a situation where you hire one and receive subpar work.
Key Criteria
Here’s a few things to keep in mind when searching for a developer:
- Do they have a current portfolio or history of their work?
- Can they explain their role in their projects?
- Can they provide references?
- Are the up-to-date with the latest technology and able to create work that will be functional on all devices and appear current at launch?
- Do they have experience with open source tools or do they focus on paid tools?
Offshore, Near Shore & Local
You may also look to hire a developer who’s based overseas. While this can be a cheaper option, there are sizeable risks involved. Due to different time zones, socio-cultural differences and potential language filters, offshore providers may not be able service you as effectively, fully grasp your vision or allow you to play as much of a hands-on a role. Conversely, hiring a local team facilitates direct involvement and socio-cultural synchronicity, but considerably higher cost. more than you would be if you outsource your work overseas. Be wary; if you’re looking to build a new Uber and receive a quote for $5,000, you’re likely going to be left in the cold by the finished product. In the end, you get what you pay for. An interesting compromise could be a near shoe team who is not local, but still in your time zone.
Are they Realistic?
You’ll want to hire a developer who is honest, forthcoming and realistic in their communications. In the same vein as the price, if you speak to a developer who tells you that your app will be ready in 2-3 weeks, you should take your business elsewhere, as this is a fairly ridiculous claim.
Are Their Bases Covered?
You also want your developer to be well-versed in all necessary aspects of your development needs including database management, front end and back end development for Apple, Android and web-based platforms. Finally, make sure they are going to be around when you need to updates. Over time, the source code for your app is going to be out of date, and your developer will need to offer ongoing support and work to make sure the lights stay on when new devices and operating system releases bring your app out of date..
Follow these tips, and you can be sure that you won’t be left out in the cold in this crazy world of on-demand app development.
