Nowadays, there’s an app for everything. Need a ride into town? App. Want to learn to play the piano? App. Fancy inadvertently stumbling into a murder scene? Oh, there’s an app for that…
If you’re a business owner, you’ve probably already pondered the idea of launching your own app. However, if you’ve little experience in the field of software development, this initial spark of inspiration likely fell on damp ground. Building a mobile app isn’t easy — and that’s part of the reason why app developers are in such high demand.
Thankfully, finding a decent app developer isn’t as tricky as it once was. In fact, many businesses now include remote app developers as a core component of their wider global employment strategy, snapping up the best talent from around the world. So, if you’re seeking a developer of your own but are struggling to find one locally, don’t be afraid to look further afield!
If you’re considering hiring a remote app developer, you can explore job opportunities on Remotework, a leading job board specializing in remote positions worldwide.
However, if this is your first time hiring a developer from far-off lands, you may be a little apprehensive. Well, fear not — below, we’ll explore 5 of the most important factors to consider during the process. Follow these rules, and you’ll be well on your way to bringing the app of your dreams into reality.
Expertise and Specialization
The first and most crucial factor to consider when hiring a remote app developer is their expertise and specialization. Mobile app development is a vast field with various platforms, languages, and technologies. To ensure your project’s success, you’ll want to find a developer who specializes in the specific platform and technology stack your app requires.
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Platform Compatibility
When evaluating a potential developer, make sure they have experience developing apps for the platform you’re targeting. Whether it’s iOS, Android, or cross-platform development, hiring someone with a track record on your chosen platform can save you time and money.
Technical Skills
Beyond platform expertise, assess the developer’s technical skills. Do they have proficiency in the programming languages, frameworks, and tools relevant to your project? Request a portfolio of their previous work to evaluate the quality of their coding and design skills.
Industry Knowledge
Consider whether the developer has industry-specific knowledge. Depending on your app’s purpose (e.g., healthcare, finance, gaming), having a developer who understands your industry’s regulations, trends, and user expectations can be a significant advantage.
Communication and Time Zone Compatibility
Effective communication is vital when working with a remote app developer. The geographical distance and potential time zone differences can pose challenges if not managed properly. Here’s what you should consider:
Language Proficiency
Ensure the developer is proficient in the language you’ll use for communication. Effective verbal and written communication is essential to convey ideas, address issues, and collaborate seamlessly.
Time Zone Alignment
Coordinate working hours that align with the developer’s time zone as closely as possible. Overlapping work hours can reduce delays in communication and problem-solving, leading to a more efficient development process.
Communication Tools
Establish a clear set of communication tools and protocols. Popular options include project management software, video conferencing platforms, and instant messaging apps. Ensure everyone involved knows how and when to use these tools.
Portfolio and References
Before committing to a remote app developer, thoroughly review their portfolio and request references from previous clients or employers. A strong portfolio and positive references are indicators of reliability and competence.
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Portfolio Evaluation
Examine the developer’s past projects, paying attention to the diversity of apps they’ve worked on. Evaluate the quality of design, user experience, and functionality. A well-rounded portfolio demonstrates adaptability and skill.
Client References
Contact references provided by the developer. Ask about their experience working with the developer, including communication, project management, and the final results. Insights from previous clients can provide valuable insights into the developer’s work ethic and professionalism.
Project Management and Workflow
A successful app development project relies on effective project management and workflow processes. Discuss how the developer plans to manage your project and what methodologies they use.
Project Timeline
Set clear expectations regarding project timelines and milestones. Determine how often progress updates will occur and how issues or delays will be addressed. A well-defined timeline keeps the project on track.
Development Methodology
Understand the developer’s preferred development methodology, such as Agile, Scrum, or Waterfall. Ensure it aligns with your project’s needs and your team’s working style.
Collaboration Tools
Identify the tools and platforms the developer uses for project management and collaboration. Familiarize yourself with these tools to streamline communication and tracking.
Budget and Payment Structure
Last but not least, consider your budget and the developer’s payment structure. We get it — talking frankly about payment expectations can feel awkward, but transparent financial arrangements are crucial to avoid misunderstandings during the project.
Budget Assessment
Determine a realistic budget for your app development project. Be prepared for potential additional costs that may arise during the development process. Discuss your budget openly with the developer to ensure alignment.
Payment Terms
Discuss the payment structure, including milestones and payment schedules. Avoid large upfront payments and opt for a payment plan that ties progress payments to specific project milestones. This ensures that both parties have a vested interest in project success.
Hiring a remote app developer can be a rewarding experience if approached with careful consideration, so follow these tips and you’ll have your app in no time! Looking for some inspiration? Check out our post archives on all the hottest apps out now — from the best alternatives to Canva, to the top 5 educational apps. Thanks for reading!
