In today’s digital-first world, your website is often the first impression potential customers will have of your brand. Whether you’re launching a new site or revamping an old one, choosing the right web developer can make or break your online success.
But with so many freelancers, agencies, and DIY tools out there — how do you choose the right partner for your business?
Let’s walk through a clear checklist to help you make the best choice.
1. Understand What You Really Need
Before reaching out to any developer or agency, take a step back and define your goals:
Do you need a brand-new website or just a redesign?
Will your site need eCommerce functionality?
Do you need ongoing support or just one-time help?
Are accessibility and compliance (like ADA or WCAG) important to you?
Having clarity will help you find a developer whose skill set matches your needs.
2. Check Their Portfolio
A developer’s portfolio tells you a lot about their style, quality, and range. Look for:
Projects similar to what you want
Mobile responsiveness
Clean design and good user experience
Site speed and interactivity
Pro tip: Visit some of their past clients’ websites. See how they look, feel, and perform in real-world use.
3. Look for Technical Expertise
Depending on your project, you may need someone skilled in:
HTML, CSS, JavaScript
CMS platforms like WordPress, Webflow, or Shopify
Custom web applications
SEO best practices
ADA/WCAG accessibility standards
Ask what technologies they use and why—a good developer should be able to explain their tech stack in plain language.
4. Ask About Process and Communication
How a developer manages projects is just as important as what they build.
Ask:
What does the typical project timeline look like?
How often will you get updates?
Will you have a main point of contact?
What happens if revisions are needed?
You want someone who is responsive, transparent, and organized.
5. Prioritize Compatibility Over Cost
While budget is important, don’t just go with the cheapest option. A low-cost developer might lack experience or cut corners—costing you more in the long run.
Look for someone who:
Understands your business goals
Cares about user experience
Builds with scalability and performance in mind
Remember: a good website is an investment, not an expense.
6. Don’t Overlook Accessibility
A website that doesn’t work for everyone—especially people with disabilities—can hurt your brand and even put you at legal risk.
At CliqAlly, we build websites with accessibility in mind by default, ensuring your site meets ADA and WCAG guidelines while delivering an excellent experience for all users.
Even if accessibility isn’t your top priority right now, choosing a developer who bakes it into the build gives your site a strong, future-proof foundation.
Final Thoughts:
Choosing the right web developer isn’t just about coding skills—it’s about finding someone who understands your vision, communicates clearly, and builds with both performance and purpose in mind.
At CliqAlly, we help businesses build beautiful, accessible websites that work across all devices—and for all users.
Need help with your next website project? Get in touch with us and let’s make your site work for everyone.