A strong digital presence is a must if you want your company to thrive in today's modern world, and the Web developer you hire could make or break your outreach capabilities. Like most services in business, you tend to get what you pay for when it comes to Web developers – if you're lucky, that is. But if you don't draft a contract that protects your interests, your digital platform could crumble before it even gets off the ground.
- Know what you want.
Before you start researching Web developers, it is important to make a list of everything you want. Business owners who aren't entirely sure what they're looking for should at least take note of some design aspects that they know they don't want. Find websites you love – or those you hate – so the Web designers you talk to have a clear understanding of what you want and can show you relevant work they have completed in the past.
2. Consider the developer's personality.
Entrepreneur reminds business owners that a developer's personality is often a bigger indicator of success than past experience. Hire someone who has the drive and determination you need to get the project done because even the best developers won't be able to deliver if they never finish your site.
3. Don't hesitate to fire someone.
Some business owners will continue working with vendors who consistently provide poor services or deliver inadequate products because of the sunk cost fallacy; however, that is no way to run a successful company. It may take you a while to find the right team, but if it turns out the developers you hired are not working out, do not hesitate to let them go.
4. Get everything in writing.
If your company allocates a certain amount of start-up capital for Web design and the developer approaches you two weeks after signing on for more money, you will be powerless if your contract does not include a clearly defined scope of work – or if you didn't sign a contract at all. A commercial attorney can negotiate terms for the contract between you and your developers and then review what the vendor drafts to ensure they included the terms you require.
If you're trying to start or grow a company, take advantage of the countless resources at your fingertips. For example, Forbes offers advice on working with an outsourced Web designer, and USAttorneys.com has additional information for small business owners on trademarks, patents, and other aspects of business law.
There is only so much information you can find online, though, and once you start establishing relationships with vendors, your attorney will help. Call 909-283-5494 to speak with a Redlands commercial attorney now.
