With the popularity of a little thing called the internet, a website developer can be an instrumental part of nearly every company. While some businesses keep them on staff, many opt to use freelancers and web design agencies, hiring out on an as-needed basis.
Of course, this makes a lot of sense, especially if you don’t have enough work to justify an in-house coder. Even so, working with website developers isn’t always smooth sailing. With different styles and personalities, the client-freelancer relationship might need a little finesse.
To get the most out of your website developer, consider the following tips:
Give them Time
Patience is a virtue for a reason; it can be difficult to practice. This is especially true when you’re anxious to launch a new site or get your e-commerce page up and running. But giving your developer space to get things done is key to a copacetic relationship and a stellar finished project. While updates are important, don’t request them too often and keep off-the-clock contact reserved for emergencies, unless you’re paying them to be on call.
Be Clear About Your Vision
Unfortunately, developers have yet to develop mind-reading skills. This means that they need as much clarity from you as possible. The way to convey this is through solid communication. Yes, it’s key in all relationships, even working ones. Clear communication allows you to adequately express your vision and set expectations for your developer to meet…and then exceed.
Check Your Email
While the original specs give your developer a great idea of what you want and where to begin, requests for further clarification are inevitable. Good developers ask questions instead of making assumptions, which means you might hear from yours fairly regularly. Make a point to routinely check your inbox (or your text messages) while the project’s active. Remember, the longer you take to respond, the longer it’ll take to finish the job.
Defer to Your Website Developer as the Expert
It’s often a challenge to be hands-off, especially if you’re running a start-up and used to wearing many hats, or a passionate entrepreneur who feels as affectionate toward your company as you do your first-born child. But developing a website is something that takes a great deal of know-how, expertise, and education. In other words, resist the urge to get overly involved unless you have as much experience in the process.
Don’t Be Afraid to Speak Up
The above rings true, yet that doesn’t mean your voice isn’t the most important one in the virtual room. When it comes down to it, your developer works for you and they want to meet your ideals as much as possible. If you’re seeing something you don’t like, speak up as soon as you can. Bringing up your concerns early side steps further errors along the way.
Working with developers isn’t always easy, particularly if you’re not used to outsourcing projects. These tips won’t guarantee a flawlessly executed plan, but they up the odds of a ready-to-use site that’s set to make its world wide web debut in style. Need some guidance? Give us a shout and we’ll be happy to help.