Hiring a BigCommerce developer can free up resources that you need to tackle other business critical tasks, while also leveraging powerful industry and platform-based experience to your benefit.
But it can still be an expensive proposition. Here are some questions you should ask out of the gate to help make sure you’re making a wise decision that won’t leave a bitter taste in your mouth later on.
1. How many BigCommerce projects have you worked on?
Not that there aren’t new designers out there that are scrappy and capable, but the number of big projects a designer has completed over the years is a definite indicator of quality delivered. Just think about it, how would a designer riddled by a retinue of unsatisfied customers continue to bring in business?
2. How old is your business?
Like the number of projects handled, the age of a business is a pretty solid indicator of overall reputability. Again, there are new businesses that are worth their proverbial salt, but you can’t stay in business long if you consistently deliver sub-par results, especially on an enterprise scale such as that served by BigCommerce.
3. What other clients have you worked with in my industry (or vertical)?
This is probably the most important question in this lineup. It’s not just about familiarity with the eCommerce platform, or about age, but about familiarity with your business and its associated industry. There are things that work in each industry and many things that don’t. If the BigCommerce developer in question has never worked for a client in your industry before, that is a potential red flag.
4. How much is this project going to cost?
This question is important for what should be quite obvious reasons. You need to make sure you’re hiring a designer for a project that’s within your budget.
5. How many rounds of revisions do I get?
Let’s be honest. Not everything goes well, every time. You want to make sure that when the design’s delivered, you’ll be able to make tweaks.
6. What happens if I am not happy with the finished result?
Most designers don’t allow clients to get refunds because work performed is work performed. But some may be more flexible than others when it comes to making things right (in the event of a mistake) or allowing revisions to work that’s been delivered.
7. What assurances do I have that this project will complete on time?
Like asking about how much a project will cost, this one is also important to making sure that your goals are met. If you have a hard deadline by which you need a new design implemented and launched, or a rebrand delivered, you need to make sure you’re getting what you want, when you want, pursuant to the terms you agree to. Otherwise, it’s wasted money.
8. Where can I see examples of past work?
Like the question regarding work for other clients in your industry, this is a very important one – perhaps the second most important. Reputable designers will keep a client portfolio ready and available through which they can promote examples of the quality of their work. Think of these as visual testimonials or reviews.
Planning on Hiring a BigCommerce Developer? Start Here
Not sure where to find a BigCommerce developer that’s qualified to work on your project? Ask for recommendations from your BigCommerce representative. Since they’re already familiar with your brand and model, they may be able to make specific, insightful suggestions as to which agencies are best suited to get you closer to your goal.
