13 Factors to consider when hiring mobile app developers

The popularity of mobile applications is on the rise as businesses strive to broaden their influence and enhance interaction with customers. Nevertheless, the development of a mobile app necessitates a proficient team of developers capable of transforming your concept into a reality.

With so many developers, finding the right one for your project can be challenging. In today’s article, let’s discuss 13 key factors to consider when hiring mobile app developers.

What is a mobile app developer?

A mobile application developer is an expert in crafting software applications explicitly tailored for operation on mobile devices like smartphones and tablets. They are responsible for the entire app development process, including conceptualizing, designing, coding, testing, and deploying the application to various mobile platforms.

Mobile app engineers typically have expertise in programming languages and frameworks specifically suited for mobile development, including Kotlin or Java for Android apps and Swift or Objective-C for iOS apps. They may also work with cross-platform development tools and frameworks like React Native or Flutter, allowing them to build applications that can run on multiple platforms using a single codebase.

These developers collaborate closely with UI/UX designers, product managers, and other stakeholders to ensure the app meets the desired functionality and user experience requirements. They may integrate various features and technologies into the app, such as geolocation, push notifications, in-app purchases, social media integration, and data synchronization.

Roles of a mobile app developer

A mobile app developer’s roles and responsibilities can vary depending on the organization and the specific project. However, here are some common roles and responsibilities of these developers: 

• Application Design: Mobile app developers participate in the design phase of the application, working closely with UI/UX designers to create an intuitive and visually appealing user interface.
• Coding and Programming: Developers write the code for the mobile application using programming languages and frameworks specific to the target platform. They implement the app’s functionality and features based on the project requirements.
• Testing and Debugging: Developers thoroughly test the application to detect and reduce bugs and issues. They perform unit, integration, and user acceptance testing to ensure the app functions correctly across different devices and operating systems.
• Platform Adaptation: Mobile app engineers may need to adapt the app to run smoothly on various platforms and devices, considering factors such as screen sizes, resolutions, and hardware capabilities.
• Integration of APIs and Services: Developers integrate various application programming interfaces (APIs) and third-party services into the mobile app, such as location services, social media integration, payment gateways, and analytics tools.
• Performance Optimization: Developers optimize the app’s performance, ensuring it loads quickly, operates smoothly, and efficiently utilizes device resources such as memory and battery.
• Security and Data Protection: Developers incorporate security measures to safeguard user data and ensure the app follows the best data encryption, authentication, and secure network communication practices.
• Continuous Learning: These engineers need to stay updated with the latest tools, technologies, and industry trends in mobile app development. They continuously learn and enhance their skills to deliver high-quality and innovative applications.
• Collaboration: Developers work closely with cross-functional teams, including designers, product managers, quality assurance testers, and backend developers, to ensure effective coordination and delivery of the mobile application.
• App Store Submission and Maintenance: They assist in preparing the app for submission to app stores, adhering to the respective platform’s guidelines and requirements. They also provide ongoing maintenance and updates to address user feedback, bug fixes, and compatibility issues.

13 Factors to consider when hiring mobile app developers?

When hiring mobile app developers, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some key considerations:

1. Platform expertise

Each mobile platform, such as Android and iOS, has unique programming languages, frameworks, and development tools. Hiring mobile app developers with platform expertise ensures they are well-versed in the specific technologies required to develop apps for that platform. This targeted expertise enables them to utilize the platform’s capabilities effectively and efficiently.

Android and iOS have different user interface (UI) design guidelines and conventions. Hiring developers with platform expertise ensures that they deeply understand the platform-specific UI/UX guidelines and can design and develop apps that align with the platform’s look and feel. This results in a better user experience and increases the chances of your app being well-received by users.

By considering platform expertise, you can ensure that the mobile app engineer you hire possesses the necessary skills and knowledge to develop high-quality, platform-specific applications that meet your project requirements and target your intended audience effectively.

2. Portfolio and experience

A diverse portfolio provides tangible evidence of their skills, capabilities, and previous work. It allows you to assess their proficiency in mobile app development, the quality of their work, and their ability to deliver successful applications. The portfolio showcases their experience in different aspects of app development, such as UI/UX design, coding, and integration of various features.

By examining the developer’s portfolio, you can identify the technologies, programming languages, frameworks, and tools they have used in their previous projects. This helps you assess their familiarity with the specific technologies relevant to your project. Hiring mobile app developers with experience in the technologies you plan to use reduces the learning curve and ensures efficient development.

When reviewing a developer’s portfolio, it’s also vital to consider client satisfaction and references. Reach out to the developer’s previous clients or employers, if possible, to gather feedback on their work ethics, communication skills, ability to meet deadlines, and overall satisfaction with the developer’s performance.

3. Technical skills

A developer’s technical skills are essential to ensure they possess the expertise to develop high-quality, functional, and reliable mobile applications. It directly influences the app’s performance, security, compatibility, and success in meeting user and business requirements.

Mobile app development requires proficiency in programming languages and frameworks specific to the target platforms. Evaluating a developer’s technical skills ensures they have expertise in languages like Java or Kotlin for Android, and Swift or Objective-C for iOS. It also includes knowledge of cross-platform frameworks like React Native or Flutter. Strong technical skills in these areas enable developers to write efficient, reliable, and maintainable code.

A developer with strong technical skills can assess the project requirements and select the most suitable technologies, libraries, and tools for development. They can make informed decisions about choosing the right frameworks, databases, APIs, and other components to ensure optimal app performance, scalability, and maintainability.

4. Familiarity with mobile app development tools

Considering familiarity with mobile app development tools when hiring a mobile app developer is important because it allows developers to work efficiently and effectively. 

These tools, such as integrated development environments (IDEs), code editors, version control systems, and debugging tools, streamline the development process and enhance productivity. Developers well-versed in these tools can navigate them proficiently, utilize their features optimally, and save time during development.

Mobile app development is often a collaborative effort involving multiple team members. Familiarity with common development tools ensures seamless collaboration and compatibility between team members. 

Developers can easily integrate their work, share code, and resolve conflicts using version control systems like Git. It promotes smooth teamwork, efficient code review processes, and streamlined project management.

 5. Problem-solving ability

Mobile app development often involves complex technical challenges and obstacles. A developer with strong problem-solving abilities can effectively analyze and break down complex problems into manageable components. They can identify efficient solutions, apply critical thinking, and leverage their technical expertise to overcome obstacles during the development process.

Additionally, bugs and issues are an inherent part of software development. A developer with strong problem-solving skills can efficiently identify and resolve bugs, reducing the impact on the app’s functionality and user experience. 

They can analyze code, use debugging tools effectively, and track down the root causes of issues. This ensures timely bug fixing and minimizes disruptions in the development cycle.

 6. Collaboration and communication skills

Mobile app development is often a collaborative effort involving multiple team members, such as designers, project managers, quality assurance testers, and backend developers. Effective collaboration and communication skills enable developers to work seamlessly with others, align their efforts, and contribute to the project’s overall success. They can actively participate in discussions, share ideas, and collaborate on problem-solving.

Hiring mobile app developers with great collaboration and communication skills is essential because they can actively listen to stakeholders, ask relevant questions, and seek clarification when needed. This ensures that they comprehensively understand the desired features, functionality, and objectives of the mobile app. Clear communication also helps developers provide accurate estimates and set realistic expectations.

7. Knowledge of mobile app design principles

Mobile app design principles are crucial in creating a positive and intuitive user experience. Developers with these principles can understand and implement design patterns, navigation structures, and interactive elements that align with user expectations. They can create visually appealing interfaces and ensure smooth and efficient user interactions within the app.

By considering a developer’s mobile app design principles knowledge, you ensure they can create visually appealing, user-friendly, and intuitive interfaces. This enhances the overall user experience, promotes usability, and contributes to the success of the mobile app.

 8. Knowledge of app store guidelines

App stores like the Apple App Store and Google Play Store have specific guidelines and requirements that mobile apps must adhere to to be published. 

Developers who are knowledgeable about these guidelines can ensure that the app is developed in compliance with the rules and requirements of the respective app store. This increases the chances of successful app submission and reduces the risk of rejection or delays.

Moreover, hiring mobile app developers familiar with these guidelines is also beneficial for businesses because they can design and develop the app with these criteria in mind. They can ensure that the app meets the required design, functionality, performance, and security standards, which enhances the overall user experience and increases the likelihood of positive user reviews and ratings.

9. Continuous learning and adaptability

The mobile app development field is in a perpetual state of change. Developers who actively pursue ongoing learning can remain up-to-date with the most recent trends and technologies, enabling them to deliver innovative solutions.

More than that, user expectations for mobile apps are continually evolving. Users expect intuitive interfaces, seamless user experiences, and innovative features. Developers who embrace continuous learning can acquire new skills and knowledge to create user-friendly and engaging apps. Their adaptability allows them to respond to user feedback and adjust app functionalities.

Overall, continuous learning and adaptability in mobile app developers are crucial for keeping up with technological advancements, meeting user expectations, optimizing performance, ensuring security, and effectively solving problems. These qualities enable developers to deliver high-quality, innovative, and successful mobile applications.

10. Problem domain knowledge

Problem domain knowledge is essential when hiring mobile app developers because every mobile app is built to address a specific problem or cater to a specific target audience. 

Developers with problem domain knowledge better understand the users’ needs, pain points, and expectations within that particular industry or domain. They can empathize with the end-users and develop solutions that effectively address their requirements. This knowledge helps create user-centric and purpose-driven apps.

By considering problem domain knowledge, you ensure that the hired app developers possess the necessary expertise to understand user needs, communicate effectively, address industry-specific challenges, design efficient solutions, and contribute domain-specific insights. This knowledge helps build robust, relevant, and successful mobile apps within a specific problem domain.

 11. Compatibility with your team and culture

Mobile app development is typically a collaborative process that involves working closely with other team members, such as designers, project managers, quality assurance professionals, and stakeholders. 

Hiring mobile app developers compatible with your team and culture fosters a positive working environment, promotes effective communication, and enhances teamwork. When team members get along well and share similar values and work styles, it improves collaboration, productivity, and overall project success.

You can build a cohesive and high-performing team by considering compatibility with your team and culture when hiring mobile app developers. It promotes effective collaboration, communication, and understanding among team members, increasing productivity, job satisfaction, and long-term retention. 

A compatible team culture also fosters a positive work environment and strengthens the overall company culture.

12. Communication of timelines and budget.

Mobile app development projects often undergo changes and iterations. Effective communication of timelines and budgets enables smooth change management. It allows stakeholders to understand the implications of change requests on project schedules and costs. 

Developers can communicate the feasibility, potential impact, and necessary adjustments required to accommodate changes, ensuring transparent decision-making and effective project control.

By considering and effectively communicating timelines and budgets when hiring mobile app developers, you can set clear expectations, facilitate efficient project planning and management, mitigate risks, manage stakeholder expectations, enable informed decision-making, and support effective change management. This fosters a collaborative and transparent development process, leading to successful project outcomes.

13. References and testimonials

References and testimonials can provide insights into the developer’s professionalism, teamwork, and collaboration skills. They provide insights into the developer’s aptitude for collaborating effectively with fellow team members and demonstrating strong communication skills and adapting to the organization’s work culture. Positive references and testimonials can indicate that the developer is cooperative, reliable, and a good fit for collaborative projects.

Checking references and testimonials builds trust and confidence in the developer’s abilities. It helps mitigate the risks associated with hiring unknown individuals or companies. By verifying the experiences and feedback of previous clients or employers, you better understand the developer’s reputation, reliability, and ability to deliver on commitments.  This information helps you make an informed hiring decision and minimize potential risks.

Cost of hiring a mobile app developer.

According to Payscale, the median salary for a Mobile Applications Developer in the United States is $74,033 per year. However, more specifically, the salary of a mobile app engineer can vary based on their level of experience and expertise.  

Here is a general breakdown of mobile app specialist salaries based on different levels:

• Junior Mobile App Developer: Junior mobile app engineers can expect an average annual salary range of $40,000 to $70,000, depending on location and industry demand. Junior developers typically have less than two years of experience. They are still building their skills and gaining practical knowledge in mobile app development. 
• Mid-Level Mobile App Developer: Mid-level developers can earn an average annual salary from $70,000 to $100,000. Mid-level developers have acquired a solid mobile app development foundation and some professional experience. They possess the capability to manage tasks of greater complexity and projects independently. 
• Senior Mobile App Developer: The average annual salary for senior mobile app specialists ranges from $100,000 to $150,000 or more. Senior developers have extensive experience and expertise in mobile app development. They possess advanced technical skills, architectural knowledge, and leadership capabilities. Senior engineers often manage complex projects, mentor junior developers, and contribute to strategic decision-making. 

It’s important to note that these salary ranges are general estimates and can vary based on the developer’s location, industry, company size, specific skills and technologies they specialize in, and their track record of successful projects. Market demand and living costs in different regions can also influence salary levels.

Where to hire a great mobile app developer?

There are several places where you can hire a great mobile app developer. Here are some popular options:

• Online Freelance Platforms: Platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, and Toptal provide access to a large pool of freelance mobile app developers. You can browse through profiles, review portfolios, and hire developers based on their skills, ratings, and client feedback.
• Job Boards and Career Websites: Post job listings on popular job boards and career websites specific to the tech industry, such as Indeed, LinkedIn, and Stack Overflow Jobs. These platforms attract both freelance developers and those seeking full-time employment.
• Development Communities and Forums: Engage with developer communities and forums where professionals discuss and share their work. Websites like GitHub, HackerRank, and Reddit have dedicated sections where you can find developers showcasing their projects and skills. You can connect with developers directly and explore potential collaboration.
• Development Agencies and Software Companies: Consider hiring developers from established development agencies or software companies. They can handle the entire development process, from design to deployment. 
• Personal Networks and Referrals: Leverage your personal and professional networks to find recommendations for skilled mobile app developers. Reach out to colleagues, friends, or industry contacts who have previously worked with developers or have connections in the developer community.
• Local Meetups and Events: Attend local tech meetups, conferences, and events related to mobile app development. These gatherings allow networking with developers and exploring potential hiring opportunities. Additionally, you can gain insights into the local tech scene and meet developers face-to-face.

Conclusion

In conclusion, hiring mobile app developers can be a challenging task. However, by following the tips mentioned above such as defining your project requirements, looking for experience and expertise, and checking references and portfolios, you can increase your chances of finding the right developer for your project. 

Remember that communication is key to ensuring the project is delivered on time and within budget. By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure that your mobile app development project succeeds.