Sometimes you may need to hire a freelance programmer or software developer, either to make your website, create a program or an app for smartphones; but you have no idea where to hire or how to choose the best one, because it is not your professional area and you don’t know anything about it.
If this concerns you, here are some helpful tips on what to consider when it comes to hiring freelance programmers:
1. Know the programming language to use
Research what language the software will be programmed in and learn a little about it. It does not mean that you learn to program. The idea is simply that you get to know the local software development market, since There are programming languages that are more sought after than others.
The choice of language may lead to the software costing double or triple. When choosing one or the other, you have to keep in mind that the availability of programmers is related to the popularity of the programming language.
The most popular programming languages you could choose from are: Java, C, C++, Python, C#, PHP, JavaScript, Visual Basic .NET, Perl, Assembly language or assembler, Ruby or Ruby on Rails, Delphi / Object Pascal, Visual Basic, Swift, Objective-C, etc.
To see the complete list you can click here.
*If you know programming, you can also be a freelance programmer
2. Request some metric or parameters to measure the work
No one likes receiving a large account without knowing what they are investing in. That is why you should try to measure the person’s work in some way.
This is done by evaluating aspects such as the final result or by stages, functionality, lines of code used, working time, etc.
3. Ask for transparency and honesty
Talk to the person you are hiring to find out what they can do and what their capabilities are.
Ask him to show you his previous works. Also ask for references from other clients.
Clearly explain your expectations, so they are understood, and be open to listening to be clear about what you can and cannot do. Remember that systems development is often a multidisciplinary task that can involve more than one professional.
Keep in mind that answers like “I don’t know, but I can investigate or solve it” or “let me review it before giving you an answer” do not necessarily represent a disadvantage or obstacle. Sometimes the opposite usually happens. That a person is honest about his capabilities, but has the purpose of providing a good service and 100% solving the need of his client, is a sign that you are on the right track.
4. Freelancer experience
Keep in mind whenever Hiring a senior freelance programmer is not the same as hiring a junior. You should weigh the trade-offs on factors like cost versus experience. These considerations will depend on what Project Type you are developing
For example, if it is a simple website for a small business, you may be able to find a good price and a tailored service by hiring a web developer with little experience.
On the other hand, if your project involves technical processes, such as controls or complex tools, it is best to hire an experienced software developer. Someone who has worked on similar projects and can advise you on the job to make it even better.
*Read the 7 benefits you get when hiring a freelance consultant
Tips to start your project
In order to be successful and achieve the project that is being carried out in the best way, in addition to hiring a good freelance programmer, you must also define the project and its scope. When you do, keep the following points in mind:
1. Time to debug
Within your software development project, whether it is an update or a new one, you must estimate a time for detect and debug possible errors at work.
This is a procedure that is commonly done. It is carried out even in large software development companies.
If you don’t have time to do it yourself, assign the task to someone else. Remember that part of your responsibilities is to verify the quality of the product you are receiving. Debugging is part of the normal process of software creation, you can’t ignore it.
2. Allocate a percentage of the budget for contingencies
When it comes to projects, it can always happen that there are surprises, such as unexpected purchases of some software, equipment, etc. Don’t overlook this fact. Allocate some of your budget for any unforeseen or expense that has not been considered when raising the requirements.
3. Don’t reinvent the wheel
Ask the programmer if there is any part of your requirements that can be found in a project open source. These are commonly housed in Github and are free for reuse.
It also identifies which parts of your software or application can be connect with third-party systems for more functionality. Many of thosesoftware as a service” (SAAS) are free or can be purchased at a low cost, to get the functionality you need without having to code everything from scratch or looking for a way to do it, if it is already done.
They are commonly integrated customer support systemsCRM or customer tracking programs, email marketing, visit analysis, CMS, etc.
4. Clear communication
Last but not least, keep in constant communication with the web developer you hire. Talk to him and explain each of your concerns as the project progresses.
Make sure everything is clear. ask him to explain what is being done without too many technicalities or confusing jargon. The person who works with you must have ease of communication and be open to listening.
if you wonder where to hire a freelance programmerat SoyFreelancer.com you can compare different profiles and hire a freelance programmer who has the skills you require for your project.
To do so, register on our platform. Publish your project to start receiving proposals from professional programmers.
