Hiring guide
How to hire an app developer
Last reviewed , published by Gjethe
The short answer
To hire an app developer, define your users and core features, decide whether you need iOS, Android or both, look for developers with published apps similar to yours, ask how they handle the backend, testing, app store submission and maintenance, compare written scopes and make sure you own the code and store accounts.
Apps involve more than screens: servers, databases, admin tools, notifications, app store rules and constant operating system updates. Developers who only talk about the interface often underestimate the rest. This guide helps you find a partner who can deliver the whole product and support it after launch.
How to approach hiring
- 01
Describe the core
Who uses the app and the few things they must be able to do.
- 02
Decide platforms
iOS, Android, web, or cross-platform to cover several at once.
- 03
Shortlist
Developers with published apps you can download and test.
- 04
Discuss technology
Native or cross-platform, backend, hosting and integrations.
- 05
Agree scope and ownership
Written scope, milestones, ownership of code and accounts.
What to check in an app developer
- Apps on the App Store or Google Play you can try
- Experience with backends and admin panels
- Approach to testing on real devices
- Experience with app store review and rejections
- Security practices for user data
- Maintenance after launch
Native or cross-platform?
| Approach | Good for | Trade-offs |
|---|---|---|
| Cross-platform (React Native, Flutter) | Most business apps on iOS and Android | Some platform-specific features need extra native work |
| Native (Swift, Kotlin) | Apps relying on advanced device features or graphics | Two codebases to build and maintain |
| Progressive web app | Simple tools without app store needs | Limited device access and no store presence |
Questions to ask
| Question | Why |
|---|---|
| Does the quote include the backend and admin panel? | Often the largest hidden cost |
| Who submits the app to the stores? | Review requirements can delay launch |
| How do you test? | Device variety causes many bugs |
| What happens when iOS or Android updates? | Apps need regular updates to keep working |
| Who owns the store accounts? | You should, in your company's name |
Red flags
Be wary of developers who can't show published apps, who publish your app under their own store account, who skip the backend in quotes or who promise a full-featured app for a price that only covers screens.
Also be cautious if nobody asks about your users and goals. Good app partners challenge features that don't serve the core purpose.
Plan for life after launch
Apps need updates when Apple and Google release new versions, when libraries change and when users report problems. Budget for maintenance and agree how quickly issues will be handled.
Analytics and crash reporting from day one show how people use the app and where it fails, which guides the next round of improvements.
Evaluate how they think, not only what they've built
In early conversations, notice whether the developer asks about your users, business model and constraints, or jumps straight to technology. Good app partners challenge assumptions, suggest what to leave out and explain trade-offs in plain language.
Ask them to walk you through a past project: what went wrong, how they handled it and what they'd do differently. Honest answers are a strong signal.
Typical team roles on an app project
On small projects one person may cover several roles.
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Product or project lead | Scope, priorities and communication |
| Designer | User flows, interface and prototypes |
| Mobile developer | The app on iOS and Android |
| Backend developer | Server, database, APIs and admin tools |
| QA tester | Testing on devices and release checks |
Contracts and ownership
Your contract should state that you own the source code, designs and store listings once paid; that code is stored in your repository; and what happens if either side ends the project. Include confidentiality terms if needed.
Having store accounts and repositories in your name from day one makes any future change of developer straightforward.
Communication during the build
Regular demos of working software are more valuable than written status reports. Ask how often you'll see progress, how you'll test pre-release versions and how decisions will be recorded.
Tools like TestFlight and Google Play testing tracks let you try the app on your own phone throughout development.
Estimating the long-term cost
Beyond the build, consider hosting, third-party services, store fees, maintenance and new features. A developer who helps you estimate these costs upfront is thinking about your business, not just the next invoice.
Plan a budget for improvements after launch, because real users always reveal something new.
Accessibility and app quality
Ask whether the developer tests with larger text sizes, screen readers and different devices. Accessible apps reach more users and are increasingly expected by app stores and regulators.
Quality also shows in small details: clear error messages, helpful empty states and smooth handling of slow connections.
Frequently asked questions
How do I know if a developer is good?
Download their published apps, check reviews, ask for references and look at how they explain technical decisions.
Should my app be native or cross-platform?
For most business apps, cross-platform offers the best balance. Native suits apps with demanding device features.
Who should own the App Store account?
You, under your company. The developer can be added as a team member.
Do I need a backend developer too?
Most apps need a backend. Choose a team that covers both or coordinate them carefully.
What does maintenance involve?
Updates for new OS versions, bug fixes, security patches and small improvements.
Can I hire a remote app developer?
Yes. Many app teams work remotely with good communication and regular demos.
Should I sign an NDA?
If your idea or data is sensitive, yes. Most professional developers are happy to sign one.
How do I avoid scope creep?
Agree the first version's features in writing and put new ideas on a list for later phases.
Should I pay for a discovery phase?
For complex apps, a short paid discovery phase clarifies scope and reduces risk before committing to a full build.
How do I check code quality?
Ask about code reviews, automated tests and documentation. For larger projects, an independent technical review can help.
Do I need separate developers for iOS and Android?
Not with cross-platform frameworks like React Native, which cover both from one codebase.
Can the same developer build the website too?
Often, yes. Using one team for app, backend and website keeps design and data consistent.
How do I prepare for app store review?
Have a privacy policy, accurate store listing, test account details for reviewers and a clear description of features ready before submission.
What if users report bugs after launch?
A support period and crash reporting tools help find and fix issues quickly.
Related services
Mobile App Development
iOS and Android apps, from design to store launch.
React Native Development
Cross-platform apps with native modules where needed.
iOS App Development
iPhone and iPad apps that follow Apple's guidelines.
Android App Development
Android apps for the full range of devices.
MVP Development
The smallest product that proves your idea.
Talk it through with us.
Tell us what you need. You get an honest assessment, a clear plan and a written quote. The first consultation is always free.
- What happens next
- 1You tell us what you need
- 2We aim to reply within 24 hours with questions
- 3You get a written quote for your project