4 Things Everyone Should Know Before Hiring a Web Programmer

You already know first impressions are important. Often, the first impression a potential customer has with your brand is from your website. If your website is difficult to navigate and read or is out-of-date, they probably won’t want to work with you. The right system and design can influence where your brand and product gets positioned in a potential client’s mind. If it’s time to refresh your website or implement new software, here are the four things you need to know before hiring a web programmer:

1. Know Exactly What You Want

Knowing your website needs “something new and modern” is definitely important and the first step to getting that new site up and running. But, it’s not enough information for a programmer to work with. Have a concrete vision of what aesthetic you want, what features you need and how you’ll be updating the site before you even schedule that first meeting. This saves you and your programmer time - which saves you money!

2. Know Your Timeline

We’ve all experienced the frustration when a final product isn’t done because we haven’t allotted time for revisions. This is incredibly important and should be discussed with any potential programmer. Map out draft deadlines, and give yourself deadlines for giving feedback, at the start of the project. This will keep everyone on track and ensure the final product is in fact final.

3. Know Your Budget and Understand What it Will Pay For

You know setting a clear budget is imperative to starting any project. Be very clear about what you are will to pay for a new website with your programmer. Before you do, though, ask about the cost of special features to a new website. Simple websites based off preexisting templates shouldn’t set you back too much. More complex sites that utilize e-commerce or special user interfaces for your customers are definitely worth spending a bit more. Make sure, before any contracts are signed, that you and your web programmer are on the same page about prices and features.

4. Know and Compile the Necessary Resources

The worst thing to happen during any website redesign is unnecessary holding periods. These happen when one party is waiting on information from another. Save yourself time and heartbreak by compiling all your company information for them at the start. This can include resources like logos and brand/style guides. The more information about your business and what it stands for, the more your web developer can customize the website to fit you!

For more information on what a web developer can do for you company, take a look at our web design page!