A Non-Tech Founder Guide To Hire Developers For Startup

The dynamic landscape of app development is continuously reshaping the digital world. In 2022, the Application Development Software sector surged to revenues of USD 149.70 billion, with predictions indicating an ascent to USD 218.80 billion by 2027.

As startups around the globe race to tap into this lucrative market, the expertise of skilled developers, proficient in languages like JavaScript, HTML/CSS, and Python, becomes paramount. With the USA and APAC regions spearheading mobile app innovation, finding the right developer for your startup has never been more crucial. Join us as we guide you through the essential steps to hire developers for startup.

When does a business need to hire developers for startup?

There are various scenarios where hiring outsourced app developers might be not just a good idea but essential for your business’s growth and efficiency. Let’s explore some of these pivotal moments:

• Pressed for time

In the fast-paced business landscape, where investors await results and markets evolve rapidly, speed is key. Internal product development can be resource-intensive, slowing down the scaling process. An outsourced app development team, especially one that emphasizes quality, can accelerate product creation, tapping into diverse industry expertise to craft a user-centric product.

• On a tight budget

2022 saw over 70,000 layoffs in Big Tech globally. This illustrates a significant point: maintaining an in-house team is pricey. The costs aren’t just salaries but also work conditions, taxes, insurance, etc. Outsourcing sidesteps many of these costs. Plus, by leveraging regions where development rates are more economical, businesses can achieve more for less. We’ll delve deeper into regional rate distinctions later.

• Lack of the right talents

Good talent is hard to find. Even with an in-house team, there might be gaps in the skillsets needed for specific app features. Outsourcing companies, like Uptech, offer access to a vast talent pool, making finding the right skill set simpler and more efficient rather than investing in lengthy in-house training.

• Facing a launching deadline

Freelancers, though skilled, often juggle multiple projects and may over-commit. The result? Missed deadlines. software development company, in contrast, have structures in place to mitigate delays. Their larger teams ensure timely and consistent delivery, adhering to set schedules.

• Focusing on the big picture

App development is intricate. Entrepreneurs risk being bogged down by the nitty-gritty, potentially sidelining broader business goals. Business owners can entrust the minutiae to experts by hiring app developers, freeing up time and mental bandwidth to steer the overarching company vision.

How to find an app developer for startup: 6 steps to success

Step 1. Understand your needs

Before embarking on the journey to hire app developers, it’s paramount to delve deep into the intricacies of the app development realm.

Here’s what you should have a clear grasp on.

• Technical Specifications

– Type of Developer: Are you searching for a native, web, or Flutter mobile app developer?

– Operating Systems Knowledge: Which operating systems should the developer be proficient in?

– Technological Expertise: What specific technologies or tools should they be adept at using?

Many outsourcing mobile development firms cater to these diverse needs, offering a spectrum of experts. Aligning with such firms can simplify your search, ensuring you find someone who fits your project’s unique requirements.

• Market Research & Competitor Analysis

By studying your competitors, you gain invaluable insights into:

– Standout features of existing solutions.

– The specific challenges they address.

– Their target audience and engagement strategies.

– Any gaps or issues in their offerings.

This analysis doesn’t just shape your solution; it also sharpens your understanding of the skills and expertise your developer should possess.

• Value Proposition

This proposition should encapsulate:

– Relevancy: Highlighting how your solution meets user needs.

– Quantified User Benefits: Offering tangible advantages to the user.

– Differentiation: Showcasing what makes your solution unique.

A well-crafted value proposition attracts developers who resonate with your vision and ensures your solution is positioned to deliver genuine value to its users.

Step 2. Use hiring platforms & references

Finding the right app developer for your startup can be daunting, especially if you’re not well-versed in the tech world. However, there are several avenues you can explore to make this process easier and more efficient.

Here’s how:

• Referrals from Professional Colleagues

Utilize your professional network to get referrals for app developers. Colleagues who have experience in tech can provide valuable recommendations. They can vouch for the developer’s skills, reliability, and fit for your company. However, the success of this method is proportional to the size and quality of your professional network.

• Online Hiring Platforms

Websites like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal are treasure troves for finding qualified developers. These platforms offer a user-friendly interface where you can post job descriptions, review proposals, and even conduct preliminary interviews. They also feature client reviews, which can be a helpful indicator of a developer’s reliability.

• Social Media Platforms

Websites like Dribble and Behance offer a more social media-like experience where developers can showcase their portfolios. These platforms allow you to see the developers’ previous work, giving you an idea of their style and capabilities.

• Offline Hiring Avenues

Don’t underestimate the power of offline networking. Events like meetups, coworking spaces, hackathons, and conferences are excellent venues for meeting potential candidates. These events allow you to interact with developers in a more informal setting, giving you a better sense of their personality and working style.

Step 3. Check for reviews

Once you have a list of potential app developers or development agencies, the next crucial step is to vet their credibility and quality of work. Reviews and testimonials can provide invaluable insights into what you can expect from a collaboration.

• Professional Review Platforms

Platforms like Clutch and Glassdoor are excellent resources for vetting potential hires. These sites feature in-depth reviews that cover various aspects of a company’s performance, including quality of work, timeliness, and communication skills.

• Client Testimonials

Many developers and agencies display client testimonials on their websites. While these are generally positive, they can offer insights into the developer’s strengths and the types of projects they have successfully completed.

• Freelance Platform Reviews

If you’ve sourced candidates from freelance platforms, make sure to read the reviews left by previous clients. These reviews often rate service providers on multiple parameters, including skill level, communication, and punctuality, providing a well-rounded view of what to expect.

• Industry Catalogs and Direct Client Feedback

Web catalogs like GoodFirms offer specialized reviews and rankings. For a more unfiltered view, consider reaching out to past clients directly to ask about their experience.

Step 4. Evaluate candidates’ portfolios

By taking a holistic approach to evaluating candidates, you increase your chances of hiring a developer who is not only skilled but also a great fit for your startup’s unique needs and culture.

• Assess New Graduates Carefully

While new graduates may bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm, they often lack the practical experience of years in the field. Look for evidence of exceptional skill or unique talents that could be an asset to your project, but weigh these against the risks associated with inexperience.

• Conduct a Comprehensive Portfolio Review

Don’t just glance at portfolios; examine them closely. Download and test any apps the candidates have developed. Assess their functionality, user interface, and overall user experience. This hands-on approach will provide valuable insights into their capabilities.

• Match Technical Needs with Expertise

Identify your project’s specific technical needs, such as the type of app (web-based or mobile), required programming languages, and user interface style. Make sure the candidate’s expertise aligns with these requirements.

• Consider Soft Skills and Cultural Fit

Beyond technical skills, consider soft skills like communication and problem-solving. Additionally, consider how well the candidate will fit into your company culture. A mismatch here can lead to friction and inefficiency down the line.

Step 5. Conduct interviews & trials

By thoroughly conducting interviews and possibly even initial trial tasks, you can gauge whether the developer or team aligns with your startup’s needs and work culture. This step is crucial for ensuring a smooth and productive working relationship down the line.

• Pre-Interview Shortlisting

Before diving into interviews, you’ll likely have a stack of resumes from various sources. Start by shortlisting candidates based on:

– Experience (both academic and practical)

– Number of jobs they’ve held

– Companies they’ve worked for

– Products they’ve developed

– Online reviews and recommendations

You may also opt for a pre-employment skills test, such as a React skills test, to narrow down the list further. Only proceed with those who score highly.

• Conducting the Interview

Whether you’re hiring remotely or in-person, interviews are crucial for assessing skills, character, and compatibility. Here are some key questions to consider:

– Can you provide prior client references?

– Are you willing to sign an NDA to protect my project’s data?

– How will we communicate during the development process?

– What programming languages and tools do you specialize in?

– Can you outline the development flow?

– What project management strategies do you employ?

• Assess Communication and Transparency

Ensure there are no language barriers and that the developers are comfortable with the communication tools you plan to use. Transparency is vital, especially when dealing with outsourcing agencies. They should be open about their capabilities, limitations, and payment terms.

• Be Mindful of Personal Shortcomings

Be aware of any potential character flaws or issues that could lead to conflicts later. This is especially important when hiring a remote team, as misunderstandings can easily escalate in a virtual environment.

Step 6. Finalize the hiring process

By carefully navigating these final steps, you solidify the foundation for a successful working relationship with your app developer or development team. This ensures that both parties have clear expectations and responsibilities, setting the stage for a successful project.

• Discuss Legalities

Once you’ve identified the right developer or development team, it’s time to get into the legal aspects. Discuss and finalize the Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA) to protect your intellectual property, code, and any other confidential information related to your project.

• Terms and Conditions

Go over the terms and conditions that will govern your working relationship. This should include payment terms, project milestones, deadlines, and any other crucial conditions for a smooth collaboration.

• Sign Required Documents

After mutual agreement on the NDA and terms and conditions, proceed to sign the necessary documents. Ensure that both parties have copies of these legal agreements for future reference.

• Kickstart the Development Process

With all the legalities out of the way, you’re now ready to start the development process. Initiate the project by setting up an introductory meeting with your development team to discuss the project roadmap, timelines, and immediate next steps.

Hiring models for a business

When embarking on the journey of hiring programmers for your startup, you have several hiring models to consider. Each model comes with its own set of advantages and challenges, and selecting the one that aligns with your project’s scope, budget, and goals is crucial.

Option 1: Hire Freelance App Developers

Freelancers can be a viable option for specific tasks and smaller projects within your startup. This model offers distinct benefits, such as cost savings and flexibility, making it suitable for short-term assignments and software updates. Here’s what you need to know:

• Pros:

Cost-Effective: Freelancers can be more affordable as you avoid the expenses of office space and equipment.

Flexibility: Well-suited for small tasks and immediate software needs.

No Long-Term Commitment: You can hire freelancers on a project-by-project basis.

• Cons:

Limited Capacity: Not suitable for full-cycle app development due to the need for diverse skill sets.

Fragmented Teams: Managing multiple freelancers can be challenging and might require additional project management.

Reliability Concerns: Finding dependable freelancers can be hit-or-miss, leading to potential project disruptions.

Option 2: Hire In-House App Developers

For those seeking higher control and direct oversight, assembling an in-house team is a compelling choice. This model is advantageous when you have multiple projects and aim to maintain constant communication and collaboration:

• Pros:

Control and Oversight: Allows you to closely manage the development process and ensure alignment with your vision.

Effective Communication: Removes language barriers and time zone differences that can hinder collaboration.

Long-Term Partnership: In-house teams can grow with your startup and become deeply invested in your success.

• Cons:

Higher Costs: Hiring local specialists and maintaining office infrastructure can be financially demanding.

Resource Management: You need to provide office space, software licenses, and hardware, incurring additional expenses.

Complex Hiring Process: Assembling a proficient in-house team can be time-consuming and challenging.

Option 3: Hire An Outsourced Team

Outsourcing app development is an attractive option for startups looking to expedite their time-to-market while minimizing costs. Whether you’re looking for an entire app or augmenting your existing team, outsourcing offers numerous benefits:

• Pros:

Efficiency: Accelerates time-to-market and reduces development costs.

Access to Expertise: Outsourcing companies come with a pool of experienced developers and other specialists.

Managed Process: These companies handle team management and project delivery, alleviating your workload.

• Cons:

Distance Challenges: Time zone differences and potential communication barriers could impact collaboration.

Quality Assurance: While outsourcing companies manage delivery, ensuring consistent quality may require diligence.

Budget Considerations: Offshore options might require careful evaluation to align with your financial resources.

How much does hiring app developers cost?

Understanding the costs associated with hiring app developers is pivotal for any business aiming to launch a successful application. The cost isn’t just about the hourly rate; it’s a blend of geographical location, expertise, skills, and the intricacies of the project itself.

1. Location

The country where your developers are based plays a significant role in determining the cost.

• Developers in North America: From $100 to $150+ per hour.
• Developers in Western Europe: From $70 to $120 per hour.
• Developers in Eastern Europe: From $40 to $80 per hour.
• Developers in Asia: From $20 to $70 per hour.

However, it’s crucial to remember that a higher rate doesn’t always equate to superior quality. The cost often reflects the country’s economic conditions rather than the developer’s skill set.

2. Technical factors

Several technical aspects can influence the cost of hiring an app developer:

• Programming Language: The choice of language, be it Swift for iOS, Java or Kotlin for Android, or web languages like PHP, JavaScript, or Golang, can impact the cost.
• Project Complexity: A more intricate app with multiple features will require a diverse team, including programmers, testers, business analysts, scrum masters, and project managers. This diversity can escalate costs.
• Developer Expertise: Depending on their experience and credentials, developers are categorized as junior, middle, or senior. Naturally, a senior developer with extensive experience will charge more than a junior developer.

Why hire app developers at Savvycom

Savvycom has established itself as a leading outsourcing software development company with a rich legacy spanning over a decade. Over these years, Savvycom has successfully executed 170+ projects, showcasing its prowess and commitment to excellence. The mobile app developers at Savvycom are proficient in languages such as Swift, Kotlin, Flutter, and more, ensuring top-notch iOS, Android, and cross-platform app development.

If you’re a startup looking for app developers or aiming to enhance an existing app, Savvycom offers three flexible cooperation models tailored to your needs:

1. Dedicated Team

Perfect for large-scale and intricate projects, this model ensures seamless integration of Savvycom’s expertise with your vision. After aligning on cooperation terms, Savvycom dedicates its software developers to bringing your project to life.

2. Project-Based

This model is designed for clarity and precision. With a one-time payment for the Discovery Phase, you receive detailed estimates, precise project requirements, and strict timelines, ensuring transparency and predictability.

3. Hybrid

For those who prefer flexibility, the Hybrid model is ideal. Savvycom provides an initial scope estimation and kickstarts the project, even without a detailed scope of work. This approach allows for planning each sprint collaboratively and making adjustments, even mid-way through the development process, ensuring adaptability and responsiveness.