Start with the delivery problem, not the supplier type
A business that needs one specialist developer has a different problem from a business that needs architecture, delivery management, QA and operational ownership. Define what is missing internally before deciding whether you need an agency, a developer or a managed team.
- What must be delivered?
- Who owns technical decisions?
- Who will manage priorities and acceptance?
- What happens after launch?
Ask how the supplier works with existing systems
Good web work rarely starts from a blank page. Existing data, integrations, hosting, analytics, SEO, internal processes and legacy code all affect delivery. A supplier should ask about those dependencies early.
- Current platform and code ownership
- ERP/WMS/CRM/PIM connections
- Hosting and deployment process
- Internal stakeholders and approval
Evaluate maintainability as well as launch speed
Fast initial delivery can create expensive long-term support if the code, platform or operational process is difficult to understand. Ask how version control, testing, documentation and deployment are handled.
- Source control and review
- Testing appropriate to risk
- Environment management
- Documentation and handover
Choose a commercial model that matches uncertainty
Fixed price is useful where scope is genuinely clear. Capacity-based delivery can be more honest when discovery or ongoing change is expected. The important thing is to understand what risk is included in the commercial model.
- Fixed-scope project
- Retained capacity
- Dedicated developer
- Managed project team
Questions to consider before you start
Should we choose the cheapest quote?
Not automatically. Compare scope, assumptions, ownership, maintenance and the cost of omitted work as well as headline price.
Should the supplier know our exact platform already?
For specialist platforms such as Magento, relevant depth matters. For custom work, architecture and transferable engineering capability may matter more.
Can we start with a paid discovery phase?
Yes. For uncertain projects, a focused discovery can reduce risk before a larger commitment.
What references should we ask for?
Ask for evidence relevant to the type of challenge, but also assess how clearly the supplier understands your actual requirement.
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Need help deciding how to deliver a project?
Send us the current situation and what your internal team can already cover. We can recommend a sensible engagement model.