Hiring a web development agency for your new website can be a daunting task. As someone who’s been through this process multiple times, James Dooley learned that asking the right questions is crucial to finding the perfect fit for your project. But more importantly, he’s realized that having a technical expert on your side can make all the difference.
Let’s look into key questions you should be asking potential web development agencies and why having a fractional CTO (Chief Technology Officer) might be the secret weapon you need for a successful website launch.
The Strategy Question: What’s Your Approach?
The first thing James always ask a web development agency is about their strategy. For me, after sharing the end goal, I want to hear their plan. This is crucial because different Content Management Systems (CMS) like WordPress with WooCommerce, Shopify, or Magento each have their strengths and weaknesses.
Personally, I’m not a fan of custom development. Why? Because it creates a single point of failure. If something goes wrong, you’re stuck with a system that only one developer understands. On the other hand, popular CMS platforms like WordPress allow you to easily find developers who can fix issues or make changes.
A good agency should be able to explain:
- Which CMS they recommend and why
- What plugins or extensions they plan to use
- How their strategy aligns with your business goals
This is where having a fractional CTO can be invaluable. They can assess the agency’s strategy from a technical standpoint and ensure it aligns with your long-term business objectives.
Show Me the Evidence: Case Studies and Testimonials
Next, James Dooley always asks for case studies. If I’m a fashion brand looking for a Shopify store, I want to see examples of similar projects they’ve completed. This can give you a sense of their expertise and the quality of their work.
When reviewing case studies, you should focus on two key aspects:
- Site speed and Web Core Vitals: These are crucial for SEO and user experience.
- Integration of design, development, and technical SEO: The best agencies understand how these elements work together.
A fractional CTO can dig deeper into these case studies, analyzing the technical aspects that might not be apparent to non-technical stakeholders. They can spot red flags or identify particularly impressive technical solutions that could benefit your project.
The Price Tag: Understanding Value vs. Cost
Price is always a consideration, but it’s not just about finding the cheapest option. It’s about understanding what you’re getting for your money. For example, a higher quote might include crucial elements like Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO).
CRO is about making sure your website actually converts visitors into customers or leads. This could involve:
- Multi-step checkout forms
- Upsells and cross-sells
- Two-step contact forms (which often convert better than single-step forms)
A fractional CTO can help you understand the technical implications of different pricing structures and ensure you’re getting the best value for your investment.
Hosting and Ongoing Costs: What Happens After Launch?
It’s crucial to understand the ongoing costs associated with your website. Will the agency host your site? What are the maintenance costs? Sometimes, agencies offer cheap development but make their money on expensive hosting packages.
Consider asking about:
- Hosting options and costs
- Content Delivery Networks (CDNs)
- Caching solutions
- Ongoing maintenance and support
Having everything under one roof can prevent finger-pointing if issues arise. However, you need to ensure you’re not being overcharged for these services. A fractional CTO can help you navigate these decisions and negotiate fair terms.
After-Care and Support: What If Something Goes Wrong?
Websites can get hacked, plugins can conflict, and migrations can go wrong. You need to know what support you’ll have if issues arise. Ask about:
- Post-launch support
- Migration assistance (especially important for SEO)
- Security measures and backup procedures
A fractional CTO can help you understand the technical implications of different support packages and ensure you have the right level of protection for your business.
The Technical Details: SEO, Security, and Scalability
For larger websites or e-commerce stores, there are additional technical considerations:
- SEO migration strategy
- DDoS protection
- Load balancing for high-traffic events
- Plugin updates and compatibility
- Hosting environment (dedicated vs. shared)
These technical details can make or break your website’s success. A fractional CTO can ensure these aspects are properly addressed and implemented.
Why You Need a Fractional CTO
Throughout this process, you’ve probably noticed a common theme: the value of having a technical expert on your side. That’s where a fractional CTO comes in. They can:
- Translate technical jargon into business implications
- Spot potential issues before they become problems
- Ensure your website aligns with your long-term business strategy
- Negotiate better terms with web development agencies
- Oversee the technical aspects of your project
While you might not need a full-time CTO, having a fractional CTO for a few months during your web development project can save you time, money, and headaches in the long run.
Remember, your website is more than just a digital brochure. It’s a crucial part of your business infrastructure. Investing in the right expertise to guide its development is not just smart – it’s essential for your online success.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What exactly is a fractional CTO?
A fractional CTO is a part-time or temporary Chief Technology Officer who provides expert technical guidance and leadership without the commitment and cost of a full-time executive. They can be particularly valuable during specific projects or periods of technological change in a company.
Q: How long should I engage a fractional CTO for a web development project?
The duration can vary depending on the complexity of your project, but typically, engaging a fractional CTO for 2-3 months during the planning and initial development phases, and then again for 1-2 months during launch and post-launch, can be highly beneficial.
Q: Is it worth investing in a fractional CTO for a small business website?
While small businesses might not need the same level of technical oversight as larger enterprises, a fractional CTO can still provide valuable insights, especially if your website is crucial to your business operations or if you’re planning significant growth. Even a short consultation could help you avoid costly mistakes.
Q: How do I find a qualified fractional CTO?
Look for professionals with a strong background in web development, IT infrastructure, and business strategy. You can find fractional CTOs through technology consulting firms, freelance platforms, or by networking in your industry. Ensure they have experience relevant to your specific project needs.
