DEVELOPMENTWeb Design
Hiring a web developer is one of the biggest decisions a business can make. Whether you’re building a new website, redesigning an old one, or launching an online store, the right developer can elevate your brand — and the wrong one can cost you time, money, and growth.
Before you sign any contract, you should know exactly what to ask. These questions will help you understand the developer’s skills, reliability, communication, process, and long-term support.
Here are the most important questions every business should ask before hiring a web developer in 2025.
1. What platforms do you develop on?
This is essential because not every developer works with all platforms. Some specialize in WordPress, others in Shopify, Webflow, custom coding, or mobile apps.
Ask them:
Do you work with WordPress, Shopify, or custom development?
Why do you prefer this platform?
Will it fit my business long-term?
Why it matters:
Your platform decides your scalability, performance, and cost. A good developer recommends what’s best for your business — not what’s easiest for them.
2. Can I see your portfolio?
A strong developer should have:
Look for:
Clean layouts
Mobile responsiveness
Speed performance
Clear navigation
Conversion-focused structures
Red flag:
If a developer refuses to show real references or only has screenshots.
3. What is your development process?
You should understand how the work will be delivered. Ask:
Do you start with a design prototype?
How many revisions are included?
Do you offer branding, UI/UX, or content writing?
- How do you handle testing and quality control?
A professional developer always follows a structured flow:
Discovery
Design
Development
- Testing
- Launch
- Support
If the process is unclear — expect delays and confusion.
4.How long will the project take?
Every website has a timeline depending on:
Page count
Features
E-commerce functionalities
Integrations
- Custom coding
Ask them:
What is the estimated timeline?
What can cause delays?
How do you communicate project updates?
A good developer gives realistic deadlines, not fast promises.
5. Who will own the website after it’s completed?
This is one of the most misunderstood topics.
Make sure you ask:
Will I own the domain?
Will I own the hosting account?
Will I have admin access?
- Will my content and design belong to me?
You should always have full ownership.
Some agencies block access or hold clients hostage — avoid those developers.
6. Is the website fully optimized for SEO?
A website without SEO is invisible.
Ask these important SEO questions:
Do you optimize titles, descriptions, H1s, and URLs?
Will you install SEO plugins (e.g., Yoast, RankMath)?
Do you optimize speed for Google Core Web Vitals?
Is the site structure SEO-friendly?
If the developer says “SEO is not included,” look for another one.
7. What security measures do you include?
Your website should be protected from:
Malware
Bots
Spam
Hacking
Data leaks
Ask:
Do you set up security plugins?
Do you configure SSL?
How do you protect admin panels?
Security is essential, especially for e-commerce and finance websites.
8. Do you provide ongoing support or maintenance?
Every website needs updates and monitoring.
Ask:
Do you offer monthly support plans?
What is included in maintenance?
How do I request updates?
For businesses in Switzerland, professional maintenance ensures stability and compliance with EU/Swiss data standards.
9. What will be the total cost — and are there hidden fees?
A clear cost breakdown should include:
Design
Development
Hosting
Domain
- Plugins
E-commerce features
Integrations
- Maintenance
Avoid developers who give vague pricing.
10. What happens if I need changes after the project ends?
Ask:
How much do you charge for extra revisions?
How fast can you make updates?
Do you offer training so I can edit the site myself?
This ensures you won’t be stuck with a developer who disappears.
Conclusion
Hiring a web developer is not just a purchase — it’s a partnership. Asking the right questions helps you avoid mistakes, save money, and get a website that truly works for your business.
Whether you’re building a multilingual Swiss website, launching an online store, or creating a global brand — choosing the right developer will define your success.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
1. What should I ask a web developer before hiring them?
Ask about their experience, platforms, portfolio, SEO knowledge, timeline, and support services.
2. How do I know if a developer is skilled?
Check their live projects, performance results, and reviews from real clients.
3. Do I need SEO in my website development?
Yes — SEO helps your site rank on Google and reach customers organically.
4. Should I choose WordPress or Shopify?
WordPress is best for flexibility, blogs, and service websites.
Shopify is best for online stores.
