Top 10 Mistakes Businesses Make When Hiring a Web Development Company

Choosing a web development partner is challenging, of course, especially if it’s about a long-term large-scale project and you need a reliable partner to work hassle-free. Unfortunately, many business owners do not pay attention to some major and minor decision-making aspects, which often creates troubles during the partnership. There are a few typical mistakes to avoid, starting with having imprecise project goals and failing to consider communication styles.

In this article, I'll offer helpful guidance on how to select the ideal software vendor for your web development projects, avoid making the same mistakes twice, get important insights into the recruiting process, and identify essential qualities to consider in a web development firm:

1. Lack of a plan
2. Focusing solely on price
3. Unclear project requirements or fundamental changes in the scope
4. Selecting a company that still uses outdated technology
5. Ignoring communication and involvement
6. Considering only local software houses
7. Rushing the process of selecting vendors
8. Not having a signed contract
9. Skipping a pilot project
10. Ignoring ongoing maintenance

Mistake #1: Lack of a Plan 

In web development, it's not a good idea to wing things, especially if money is tight. Establish your company objectives and the features you want in your web project before you start searching for a software development partner. This way, you will easily select a company that aligns with your vision.

Mistake #2: Focusing Solely on Price

Web development is costly, and anyone who claims to do it at an unbelievably low cost should be avoided, as they are most probably inexperienced or fraudulent. While you may have a limited budget, look for a company that offers good value with a proven track record and clear communication. Otherwise, you must hire another experienced development team to fix and finish your project.

Be aware that some companies provide the lowest estimate for a generic website that obviously doesn’t include additional features. And when you ask to create them, they usually charge higher than the industry standard. 

In short, companies with lower web development charges aren’t wise to hire; you will , anyway, have to pay more in the end or hire a new team.

Mistake #3: Unclear Project Requirements or Fundamental Changes in the Scope

You can surely start your web project without deep technical documentation in hand. However, remember that clearly outlining your needs and expectations will only help you choose a software partner that will fit your requirements the most. Include features, functionalities, timelines, and budget in your scope of work. The more specific you are, the better and more accurate the proposals you'll receive.

Also, avoid adding major changes or features mid-development if you want your project to be delivered on time and within the agreed-upon budget. This can derail the project timeline and budget.

The scope of work (SOW) should be clearly defined upfront and followed as strictly as possible.

Mistake #4: Selecting a Company That Still Uses Outdated Technology

This does not imply that just recently released technology should be employed, disregarding older ones. Obviously, older technologies have bigger communities and more resources, and they are already mastered. However, technologies go through massive changes frequently. So, systems with the same old, outdated versions are more prone to errors and significant security breaches. Outdated technologies and versions are more likely to have security risks. 

Mistake #5: Ignoring Communication and Involvement

Communication is the key to any project and cooperation. Ensure the vendor has a defined procedure for exchanging updates, reports, and feedback. Some companies offer weekly or daily report sheets or schedule calls to share updates immediately. Select the approach that best suits your needs. 

In addition, the development team may have a number of questions while working on the project. Be sure to participate throughout this process by giving frequent feedback and participating in conversations to ensure the final product meets your expectations.

Mistake #6: Considering Only Local Software Houses

With the increasing tech developments, remote working became more popular than hiring local software developers. This way, you ensure you have access to a larger talent pool and a bigger choice. Don't make the mistake of underutilizing the global talent pool. Instead of concentrating on location, you should choose web development companies that are a match for you.

Mistake #7: Rushing the Process of Selecting Vendors

Some companies can be pressed for time and want a software partner to get their project underway right now, but being pressured into a quick decision may lead to a wrong decision. Take your time to research and interview potential companies, organize several meet-ups if necessary, and ask as many questions as you have.

Mistake #8: Not Having a Signed Contract

Why avoid protecting both parties? To secure yourself from unexpected scenarios, outline the project scope, deliverables, timelines, payment schedule, and termination clause in a signed contract.

Mistake #9: Skipping a Pilot Project

Accept it as a positive sign if your software vendor companies offer test projects for a short period without any obligations. A pilot project will show you what your cooperation will look like, how the development team approaches challenges. You will see and feel the code quality, evaluate their technical proficiency, and more.

Conducting a test project also helps to lower the risk of imbalance between your expectations and the development team’s capabilities. A successful test project establishes a foundation of trust and confidence between you two.

Mistake #10: Ignoring Ongoing Maintenance

Any system needs maintenance to stay secure and function properly. So, when choosing an outsourcing partner, ensure they provide ongoing maintenance and ask about its costs.

So what should you do instead?

The first step in making sure your web development project is successful is to choose a proper web development firm. Making an informed choice when hiring developers will be made easier if you are aware of these typical missteps and take these suggestions into account.

1. Define your business goal and make a plan.
2. Create a list of evaluation criteria, which will include cost, quality, experience, approach, communication skills, etc.
3. Specify technical details as much as possible to receive an accurate estimation.
4. Avoid using outdated technologies and versions.
5. Avoid adding major changes or features mid-development for the project to be delivered on time.
6. Don’t ignore the importance of communication channels.
7. Be responsive to the development team’s questions to avoid misunderstandings.
8. Look for software vendors globally.
9. Don’t rush in the vendor selection process.
10. Sign a contract before starting the project.
11. If the vendor offers a pilot project, don’t skip it, but accept it happily.
12. Recognize the significance of continuous maintenance.

In sum, selecting a web development vendor is an important choice that may affect your company's success and online presence. Partnering with a knowledgeable software development partner, you can realize your goal prudently and efficiently.

Author Bio

Anna Khachatryan is a Senior Business Development Manager at Milies software development company. With 8 years of experience in the IT and tech industry, she helps companies worldwide with finding remote tech teams of professionals.
 

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Anna Khachatryan

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