Web portals are great tools that can transform business interactions with customers, and data management, and automate their operations. A good design and functionality by pro web portal developers can save time, improve productivity, and boost user engagement. So how to start hiring the right people for the job?
In this article, we will explore all the key aspects to take into consideration when hiring a web portal developer.
Experience in Custom Web Portals
First, you will have to find a developer who has experience in web portal development, like the Digiteum team. Even when pre-made solutions seem convenient, they come with limitations that will never be a perfect fit. A custom web portal created from scratch for your business will.
An experienced developer would know exactly how to mold the product to your goals. They would know how to build features relevant to your operations and would be able to create a scalable solution that will grow with your business.
At the very least, look for developers who have taken part in projects similar to yours before.
Technical Expertise
The technical skills of your web portal developer will be key. The developer team needs to know the two most vital aspects of a portal: front-end and back-end development.
Make sure that your developer is comfortable with the programming languages that are used to build a web portal. This generally includes:
- JavaScript
- Python
- PHP
- React
- Angular
It really depends on which part of the project they will be working on. On the back-end side, they should be comfortable with database management and server-side tech like Node.js, Django, or Laravel.
Understanding the UX Design
There are a lot of common features, and user experience is key for the web portals. Even if your web portal is packed with super cool features, if navigating or understanding is difficult and confusing for the user, they will quickly become irrelevant. A pro web portal developer like Digiteum must be knowledgeable about UX design principles.
The developer should be able to create an interface that is user-friendly and easy to navigate. This could mean menus that are clear and readable, and well-organized content. It will include a responsive design that will work on all types of devices: smartphones, tablets, and desktop computers.
The more intuitively the design is implemented, the more it will engage the users. Ask potential developers how they deal with UX and if they can create a positive experience for the users.
Security and Compliance
Your web portal is probably going to get a lot of traffic and deal with sensitive data, so security is key. Whether it means customer data, employee records, or financial data, you want your platform to be protected from outside threats. A good developer must ensure that your portal is secure against data breaches and cyber-attacks.
Seek out developers who understand the security best practices:
- encryption
- multi-factor authentication,
- frequent security updates.
If your business is dealing in industries such as healthcare or finance, your website, and applications will have certain compliance regulations to adhere to. This would include but not be limited to Europe’s GDPR (General Data Protection Regulation). The developer should be aware of such regulations and how to implement them properly.
Integration and Scalability
Your web portal will need to be integrated with other applications that your business has: a CRM application, an ERP system, payment gateways, or whatever else might be useful. A capable web portal developer should have experience with third-party integrations. This will ensure that all your systems work properly together.
Other considerations would be scalability. Your business is growing, so is the demand for your portal. You want a web portal that will support more and more users, more and more data, as well as new features. The right developer will build your portal considering future growth, keeping in mind that it needs to scale without dropping in performance.
Project Management and Communication
Of course, technical skills will be an essential ingredient, but equally important in the hiring of a web portal developer is project management and communication. Your developer should understand what your business is trying to achieve. They will have to translate your goals into technical requirements. That means strong communication to ensure both sides are on the same page at any time during the course of the project.
Effective project management is also very important. A good developer will be able to give a clear timeline for when development should be completed, keep you updated on a regular basis, and deliver on time within budget. Ask potential developers how they manage projects and communicate with clients. You want someone who will take the initiative and be organized, honest, and reliable.
Post-Launch Support and Maintenance
Web portal development does not just stop at launch. Once your portal is online, you will need ongoing support in the form of maintenance. This can be bug fixing, updating, or developing additional features per user feedback. A great web portal developer will provide post-launch maintenance services that will keep your portal up and running.
Before hiring any developer, ask what the support options are after the project is finished. Will they be available for troubleshooting? How quickly can they respond? Having a reliable developer who can support your needs in the long term will save you from a lot of headaches in the future.
Final Thoughts
It’s important not just to find a professional, but a professional who specializes in the things you need while keeping direct communication going. There are a lot of aspects that go into creating a successful web portal, and it’s important to take them all into consideration. Make sure your new hire is experienced and reliable, and is up for the task. Communicate clearly what you expect of them, and discuss all the requirements beforehand to make sure you stay on the same page.
Your project will need constant updates. It is key to find a tech partner on whom you will be able to rely in the long run, and who will make sure you spend your resources and energy effectively.