Even though there is plenty of information on the internet (*cough* Detangled), on web development techniques and tutorials sometimes the whole process of programming a website (html/css/php/etc) can be daunting for some people. There will be inevitably times when you are either too busy to do the programming work, or just plain don’t want to/cannot do it for whatever reason. That doesn’t mean your hopes and dreams of starting a website is moot. The answer is to hire or partner with one.
There are plenty of people who claim to be great web programmers. How do you decide who is right for your web programming needs? Well there are a number of traits you should look for in a web programmer.
Experienced - Perhaps the most important trait of a web programmer is that they are experienced. It is good to investigate the projects they have worked on. Their experience will be useful as they may have dealt with clients similar to you in the past. This will enable them to quickly present you with options and solutions.
Highly Skilled – The web programmer being highly skilled is another important trait. They should be aware of even the most modern SEO techniques, quality up-to-date CSS that helps with browser compatibility and know how to use the most modern HTML codes. If you are selling online you will need a web programmer that has experience in ecommerce development and design. It could be you need a company rather than a lone ranger to fulfil your requirements.
Have A Full Website Portfolio – As touched upon, it would be wise to request a copy of their website portfolio. This could be used to ask questions that could result in your own future website looking and working closer to what you want and need. It can also be used to explain what you like and dislike about their work.
Great Client/Web Programmer Relations – Another great trait to look for is that they work well with previous clients. This could be investigated by requesting references, people you could speak to that will tell you their experience with that particular web programmer. As a lot of website projects can cost large amounts of money, you should ensure you know exactly the type of person you are investing in.
Well Organised And A Strategist – As any website is a large investment in both time and money, you want to make sure that they are capable of delivering the project on time. If you need someone to keep in contact every single step of the way, you should find someone who is willing to do that. If you need someone that will update you once a week or fortnight, find someone who works in that way. It’s not important what their strategy is, but more that they have one in place, that works for you.
Available And Flexible – Their availability is important trait to consider. You have a time in mind when you want your website to go live and it’s important they can meet this deadline. Another great trait in a web programmer is flexibility. It may call for some compromise if they are working on many projects at one time, but it will also work to your benefit.
They’re Local - Although many things can be achieved without face to face communication, it may be necessary for you to have regular meetings. If that is the case, it would be wise to find a web programmer that is more local to where your business is situated.
They Are Educated To A High Level - As many website designers and programmers tend to be self-taught and pick up things as they go along, there is no clear cut rule that says they need to have a Degree to be good at their job. However, hiring a web programmer who has a decent level of education, whether it’s a Degree or something similar, could give your project the edge you need.
They Have A Personality You Gel WIth – Last but certainly not least, one of the most important traits you should consider is their actual personality. Remember, you need to be able to work with your web programmer day in day out for as long as the project takes. If you feel uncomfortable about a particular web programmer in any way, you should think twice about hiring them.