Top Questions to Ask When Hiring a Web Development Company

Thinking about hiring a web development company to take your business online but not sure where to start?

Navigating the world of web development can be overwhelming—especially if you’re new to digital marketing. With countless agencies offering a variety of services, it can be hard to know what sets one apart from the rest.

You know your business needs a website, but figuring out how to choose the right developer can feel daunting. Fortunately, asking the right questions makes all the difference.

Here are some of the most important questions to ask when evaluating web development companies. Use these to guide your conversations and ensure you partner with a firm that truly meets your needs.

1. How Many Sites Have You Built Like Mine?

Experience matters. But it’s not just about how many websites a company has built—it’s about how relevant that experience is to your business.

Ask if they’ve worked with companies in your industry or with goals similar to yours. If they’ve successfully completed projects for businesses like yours, they’re more likely to understand your needs and deliver results that align with your objectives.

2. What Platform Do You Develop Sites For?

Some web developers specialize in specific platforms like WordPress, Magento, or Shopify. Others build fully custom sites from the ground up.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer here—each platform has its advantages. For instance, WordPress is user-friendly and ideal for blogs and content-heavy sites, while Magento is built for robust e-commerce functionality.

Find out which platform the developer prefers, and more importantly, why they recommend it for your particular project.

3. What Will You Do for SEO?

No matter how attractive your website is, it won’t help your business if customers can’t find it. That’s why search engine optimization (SEO) is critical.

A reliable web developer should incorporate SEO best practices from the start, not treat it as an afterthought. Ask how they’ll optimize your site for search engines—think page speed, mobile responsiveness, keyword structure, and metadata.

If they brush off the importance of SEO early in the process, it may be time to consider other options.

4. How Long Do You Expect the Process to Take?

Timelines can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your site. Some simple builds may take just a few weeks, while more intricate projects can stretch to several months.

Ask for a clear timeline so you can set expectations and plan accordingly. Knowing the phases of the project and when deliverables will be ready will help keep things on track.

5. Will You Provide Maintenance or Updates?

Websites aren’t “set it and forget it.” They need regular maintenance for security, functionality, and performance.

Find out if the developer offers ongoing support, such as updates, bug fixes, and hosting services. If your site isn’t built on a user-friendly platform, you might also need assistance with content updates.

This could be a crucial part of your long-term relationship with the agency, especially if you want to avoid dealing with tech issues yourself.

6. Do You Provide Content Marketing Services?

A great website is just the beginning. If you want to attract and convert visitors, you’ll also need a digital marketing strategy.

Some agencies offer content marketing services—creating blog articles, social media content, video marketing, and more. These services can help drive traffic to your site and build your brand online.

Ask what ongoing marketing support the company provides after your site goes live.

7. What End-to-End Cost Should I Expect?

Web development is an investment, and it’s important to understand the full scope of costs involved—up front and over time.

A trustworthy developer should be transparent about pricing, including design, development, hosting, maintenance, and any additional services. Knowing what to expect will help you avoid surprises and ensure the project stays within your budget.

8. Can I Speak to Your Clients?

Nothing builds trust like hearing directly from previous clients. Ask for references or case studies so you can get a sense of the agency’s reliability, responsiveness, and quality of work.

Client testimonials and conversations can offer insight into what it’s really like to partner with the company.

Ready to Get Your Business Online?

Now that you know the most important questions to ask when hiring a web development firm, you’re equipped to make a confident decision. A well-designed website, built by experienced professionals, is a powerful tool to grow your business and stand out online.

When you find a development partner who understands your goals and communicates clearly, you’ll be well on your way to launching a site that works for your business—and your bottom line.