Hiring a web developer is not just about technical skills or impressive portfolios. It is about trust, clear expectations, and setting a solid foundation for a digital project destined to grow. Over more than sixteen years working with clients across the globe, I have found that the right questions—and honest answers—are everything. The same principle works whether you are seeking a simple landing page, a robust e-commerce solution, or sophisticated AI integrations. So, let’s get to the heart of what you truly need to know before choosing your web development partner.
I am Adriano Junior, a Senior Software Engineer and Digital Nomad, and in this guide, I share the fifteen key angles every business owner or project manager must cover, based on hard-earned experience and today’s standards in web development. My focus is always to help you see what truly matters for your project—because when you succeed, I succeed too.
Ask the right questions—build digital success from the first step.
Understanding the impact of your choice
Perhaps you have read, as Jessup University has highlighted, that web development continues to outpace many other careers, with hire rates climbing sharply across all industries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 23% growth between 2021 and 2031. That’s an impressive pulse for the job market—but as a client, it translates to an abundance of choices, not all the same. Picking the right developer can mean the difference between growth that feels easy and struggles that slow you down. I’ve seen businesses thrive with the right guidance, and stall out with the wrong match.
Are you ready to make the best decision for your website? The answers to the questions below will make that possible. Here is why each question counts, what to look for in answers, and how I handle these matters with my own clients as part of the services offering. A digital project is never just code. It’s conversation, commitment, and care—before, during, and after launch.
1. What is your experience with projects like mine?
Experience counts, but not all experience is equal. A developer may have years of coding under their belt but little background in projects like yours. I have worked with SaaS startups, online stores, education providers, and global consultancy brands. Each industry brings different expectations, legal needs, and user flows.
Always ask for portfolio examples that align with your business model or target audience. A developer might have beautiful work in their portfolio, but if it is all for restaurants and you run a B2B SaaS app, you want to see relevant proof. I am proud to share my past projects and describe not just what was built, but why decisions were made, and how the process unfolded from start to finish.
Follow up with questions like:
- What were the main challenges in these similar projects?
- How did you handle scaling, security, or complex workflows?
- Can you share a client reference for a related industry?
If a developer cannot articulate their relevance to your space, consider that a warning sign. My view is that clear, relevant experience makes risks lower and results stronger.
2. Which programming languages and frameworks do you use most, and why?
Technology choice matters. It affects performance, security, hiring future talent, and even your budget. I tend to favor PHP for its reliability in back-end work, JavaScript for rich, interactive front-ends, and frequently recommend frameworks like Laravel or Node.js, depending on project demands.
What matters most is not the number of languages a developer lists, but the depth of their knowledge and the wisdom behind their choices. Ask why a certain technology will be used, and if it is compatible with your long-term goals and potential integrations. I am always open about my stack and will advise when I see a risk or a better alternative.
You may want to get familiar with some of the scalable frameworks suitable for different business types, as explored in my own post about frameworks for modern web and scalable business solutions. A developer’s willingness to recommend what you need, not what they happen to like, speaks volumes.
3. How do you approach new requirements or scope changes?
Scope creep is real. Most projects will see new ideas or needs arise mid-way, no matter how well you plan. The question is how a developer reacts to change. Is there a clear process to handle updated requirements or are these handled ad hoc, risking timeline or quality?
My process is simple—every new requirement triggers discussion, updated estimates, and written agreement before any work begins. That way, there are never surprises on launch day. I keep careful written documentation for all scope changes and am transparent about what each shift means for time and cost.
This is something often taken for granted when dealing with larger agencies or less-experienced freelancers, where changes might lead to tension or ballooning costs. I have learned that openness is always better than after-the-fact disputes.
4. What is your typical project timeline? What can affect delivery?
Your project timeline underpins every commercial decision: launch planning, marketing, and even cash flow on your end. I have seen delays sabotage promising ventures. This is why you should get a clear answer to: how long will design, build, feedback, and launch take—and what happens if something runs late? A good developer provides honest, experience-based estimates and clearly lists all factors that could cause a delay, such as awaiting content from you or sudden technical hurdles.
If a developer promises too-good-to-be-true speeds, be wary. In my own practice, I offer timelines in phases, break each element into milestones, and stay in close contact for approvals. Communication can make or break timelines—never underestimate the value of steady updates and quick feedback loops.
5. How do you ensure the quality and security of the website?
No business can afford a compromised or buggy website. Yet, security and quality control are too often an afterthought. Ask your prospective developer about their practices for reviewing, testing, and maintaining code.
Some specifics to look for:
- Automated tests to catch bugs
- Code review by a second set of eyes (if team-based)
- Regular security updates and backups
- Following standards like OWASP Top 10 for web security
When I build, I follow a strict security checklist and always include staged environments for safe client review. I am transparent about what’s in place and offer custom solutions for industries with special compliance needs. These habits protect you now and in the future.
6. How do you handle communication during a project?
Misunderstandings can sink even the most promising project. That is why I consider transparent, regular communication a non-negotiable. Ask your developer about their preferred methods, frequency of updates, and willingness to use your tools (Slack, email, video calls, etc.).
Here’s how I handle it:
- Kick-off calls to clarify objectives
- Weekly updates with sprint progress
- Written agreements for all key decisions
- Availability for ad hoc calls during crunch moments
I keep decision logs and client summaries, and am careful to reply within one business day. This kind of commitment ensures there are no hidden surprises and keeps projects friendly, even under pressure.
7. What is your process for working with designers, marketers, or other team members?
Most web projects need more than just code. Integrations, custom graphics, or content strategy often involve teammates from inside or outside your organization. It is essential to know if your developer can play well with others, communicate without ego, and keep everyone involved and informed.
I have worked in multidisciplinary teams for over a decade, collaborating with UX designers, SEO consultants, and copywriters. My method is openly sharing progress, keeping feedback rounds clear, and updating everyone on shared dependencies. I am comfortable using team collaboration tools and sharing staging links for feedback.
Sometimes, I am brought in as technical lead or advisor for agency-led projects. I thrive in those situations because open documentation and goodwill power up results—whether you lead a large in-house team or are a solo founder outsourcing key work.
8. Which content management systems (CMS) do you recommend and why?
The right CMS affects everything: how easy it is to update your content, train your team, or add features later. I have worked with WordPress, Drupal, headless CMS platforms, and custom solutions. However, not every business needs the same thing.
Ask why a certain CMS is suggested. Decision factors include:
- Ease of use for non-technical staff
- Support for multilingual content
- Security, update cycles, plugin quality
- Integration needs (CRM, e-commerce, APIs, AI—see my own thoughts on modern systems and API integration)
It is my firm belief that you must own your content and that the platform fits your workflows, not the developer’s convenience. I will guide, but never force, a particular CMS if there is a better fit for you. Sometimes, custom is right; for others, a well-chosen popular CMS wins for long-term support.
9. Can you describe your approach to SEO and performance?
Your website should not just look sleek—it must also load fast and be found by the right people. Ask how your developer considers SEO from the first line of code, and what performance standards they promise. My practice includes:
- Semantic HTML for good on-page SEO
- Optimizing images, code, and assets for speed
- Preparing technical SEO basics: sitemaps, robots.txt, meta tags
- Advising on ongoing SEO strategies post-launch
I also offer ongoing SEO reviews and can connect you with trusted specialists for deeper content marketing if needed. If your developer is vague or dismissive about SEO, that is a flag. Site speed and visibility are too core to your business to ignore.
10. Who owns the code and data after the project launches?
It seems obvious, but this is frequently overlooked during negotiation. I have witnessed businesses held hostage by unscrupulous agencies or freelancers, simply because contract terms were unclear. Ownership must be clear: you should own the code, the design, and the data relevant to your business—unless another arrangement is in writing.
I ensure my clients have full access to their source code, documentation, and accounts. Contracts are explicit. The only exception is when clients use license-restricted libraries or platforms; then I will explain what that means. Never work with someone unwilling to clarify this early, or who wishes to retain rights without a fair reason.
11. What is your plan for ongoing support and maintenance?
No website is set-and-forget. Updates, bug fixes, security patches, and sometimes quick changes are necessary. Ask not only about launch support, but how the developer handles requests, hotfixes, or improvements in the following months or years.
I offer tailored maintenance plans. Some clients prefer monthly retainers, others reach out only when updates are needed. Either way, my promise is prompt response and transparent billing. It’s worth asking about:
- Average response times for support requests
- Process for handling critical errors or downtime
- Availability for feature requests after launch
Reliable support is one of the reasons so much client work comes my way as follow-up or recovery from failed previous efforts. That commitment is what sets a dependable developer apart from competitors.
12. How do you structure your payment terms?
Understanding payment schedules is not just about budgeting. It is about trust and fairness on both sides. A good developer will propose a staged payment structure, tied to clear deliverables or project phases—never an all-upfront demand.
My clients see milestones, percentage breakdowns, and what each invoice covers. I keep everything in writing, using proposals and invoices that spell out what is included, due dates, and how to handle scope changes or delays. This kind of discipline is a layer of safety for everyone involved.
It is also smart to clarify what happens if a project is paused: are previous payments refundable, or are there minimum commitments for certain phases? Clarity brings peace of mind and keeps business relationships friendly.
13. Can you provide clear documentation, user guides, or training?
You should not need to be a coder to manage or update your site. Ask if your developer will provide handover documentation, admin guides, or live training as part of the project closeout. This includes:
- Basic admin operation for your CMS, e-commerce, or app
- Clear lists of all logins, services, and integrations used
- Instructions for handling routine tasks or troubleshooting
- Explanation of backup and recovery procedures
With me, thorough documentation is the norm, and I can even create short screencasts for complex features. I believe self-sufficiency is just as important as delivering pixel-perfect work, and repeat inquiries have shown clients prefer that extra reassurance.
14. How do you stay up to date with new technologies?
Tech moves quickly. Languages, libraries, SEO techniques, and design trends never still. In my experience, those who stick only with what they learned years ago put you at a disadvantage. I routinely invest in courses, follow web standards, and remain active in developer communities. I enjoy learning and sharing these advances with my clients—sometimes, what you need is new, not just more of the same.
Ask your developer how they keep pace. Do they read, attend conferences, participate in forums? Is there a process to ensure sites don’t fall behind on security or compatibility? When you choose someone like me, you get not only current expertise but insight into upcoming trends that may be game-changers for your business.
15. What are your policies on deadlines and handling project setbacks?
No project is free of surprises. What counts is how issues are managed, communicated, and resolved. Discuss up front what happens if timelines slip: how will you be notified, what recourse is available, and who absorbs any extra work involved?
My approach is complete transparency—setbacks are flagged early, written up, and re-estimated promptly. I believe partnership, not blame, powers real progress. A willingness to own challenges and find solutions signals a dependable professional. That’s my promise for every client, every project.
Honest answers build relationships, not just websites.
A few extras: Making your due diligence work
While the above fifteen questions form the core of any successful vetting process, I encourage you to add these “bonus checks” before committing:
- Google the developer’s name and business for personal reviews—check testimonials and experience pages for authentic stories
- Check professional networks like LinkedIn for valid profiles and public endorsements
- Inspect their code quality, if possible, with a tech-savvy friend or advisor
- Review at least one completed project that is live and busy (not just screenshots)
- Ask for a sample contract to review—fine print matters
These steps may sound like overkill, but with thousands of web developers flooding the market (as the Bureau of Labor Statistics and university studies confirm), only the most diligent clients end up truly satisfied.
How I answer these questions—and why that matters for you
I believe the value in hiring me, Adriano Junior, is not just in my technical skills or range of platforms (from full-stack web apps to AI integrations and AWS-powered solutions), but in the clarity and confidence I offer at every step. My background is global, my toolkit is always growing, and my commitment is personal—I treat every client as a partner, and every project as a future showcase.
That is why, when people compare agencies or other freelancers to my work, I suggest they look not just at flashy portfolios, but at how conflicts are resolved, how updates are delivered, and whether practical business goals shape the web solution. It is an approach I wish more of my competitors followed—but then, those differences are what makes my offering unique.
Comparing standards: Competitors and what makes us different
Competition in the web development space is fierce. Many agencies pride themselves on their headcount or vast resource pools. However, I have seen how the personal touch can be lost in a crowd, and how decisions can get delayed when too many hands are on the project. While others might focus merely on design, I dig deep into your workflow and growth pains, finding ways to reduce ongoing cost, future-proof your stack, and translate your digital brand into actual results. It’s not just about completing a project, but about caring what happens after launch.
Partnering with the right developer is about trust, not just transactions.
Some developers, especially in larger firms, prioritize speed over sustainability. In my view, quality and a lasting relationship pay off more, for both parties. You get quick response, personal communication, and someone who stands behind what’s built—you’ll find that not every competitor is willing (or able) to guarantee this, especially at my level of involvement and flexibility. I respond personally to each message and craft solutions built for your context—not a packaged “template.”
Practical tips for your hiring process
- Never choose on price alone: Cheap can get costly if you need to rebuild later.
- Ask for trials, discovery phases, or fixed-scope pilot projects if you're uncertain.
- Give your developer every piece of information about your needs early; it saves so much time in late adjustments.
- Look for organized documentation and proactive suggestions—those are hard to fake and even harder to teach.
- Trust people who say “I don't know, but I'll find out”—over those who claim certainty beyond reason.
My ambition is to be the person you trust, long after your first project is shipped.
Conclusion: The right questions, the right answers—the right web developer
When you take the time to ask thorough, honest questions during your search, your odds of project success soar. You get more than just a website—you get a growth partner, a reliable support system, and technical advice that fits your business future. In my two decades in the field, nothing separates winning digital brands from the rest like their ability to choose the right help, and to demand clarity from the start. That is something I have made my core promise, with every project I deliver.
So if you are considering building your next business platform, integrating AI, or just want a dependable, friendly specialist by your side for support and consulting, reach out to see how my approach is different. I invite you to schedule a conversation, review my past successes, read about my experience, or see my available services. Let’s bring innovation to life—on your terms, with the answers you deserve.
Frequently asked questions
What should I ask a web developer?
Ask about their specific experience with similar projects, their preferred programming languages and frameworks (and why those are chosen), how they handle scope changes, project timelines, communication, and collaboration. Clarify which CMS platforms they recommend, their approach to SEO and performance, quality and security processes, post-launch support, and detailed payment terms. Make sure ownership of the code and data, as well as clear documentation and training, is discussed. Finally, ask how they respond to setbacks and keep skills up to date. These topics match the 15 main angles covered in my article—they ensure you get more than just a coder; you find a partner invested in your project’s success.
How do I choose a web developer?
Start by reviewing relevant portfolio projects and checking references from past clients. Look for technical depth in the languages and frameworks that fit your business, as well as clear communication and honest timelines. Be sure your developer offers transparent contracts and payment milestones tied to results, not promises. Evaluate their support and maintenance plans, and look for flexibility in handling challenges and changes. Trust your instincts: a developer like me, who emphasizes trust and personal partnership, can often deliver results and peace of mind beyond what larger agencies or off-the-shelf teams provide.
How much does a web developer cost?
Web developer costs vary widely by region, experience, and skillset. According to BLS median wage reports, U.S. developers averaged $77,200 in annual salary (2020 data), with freelancers and consultants charging from $50 to over $150 per hour. In Washington State, recent data notes an average rate of $65 per hour (about $135,500 yearly). Simple brochure sites from a freelancer might run from $2,000 to $8,000; custom platforms or applications easily reach $20,000 or more. Always ask for detailed, phased estimates with clear deliverables—exactly my process.
What are the signs of a good web developer?
A good developer explains decisions clearly, listens closely to your needs, and shows work relevant to your business type. They communicate honestly about timelines, risks, and costs—never hiding behind jargon. Technical depth in current frameworks, proactive suggestions, clear documentation, and a strong sense of ownership are hallmarks of top talent. You should see proof of reliable post-launch support and enthusiasm for ongoing learning. Above all, the relationship should feel collaborative, not transactional—exactly the kind of partnership I deliver with clients.
Where can I find reliable web developers?
Reliable developers are best sourced through referrals, public portfolios, and professional networks. Websites that let you see detailed project histories, transparent pricing, and real customer feedback are useful. However, working with a trusted independent senior specialist like myself gives you direct access to skills, experience, and open conversation—no middlemen, no confusion. Start by reviewing online portfolios, testimonials, and even case studies. You can find more about my approach, background, and projects throughout this site or by browsing my dedicated project page.