Because it’s more convenient for consumers to shop from home in this digital age, online shopping, or eCommerce, has grown in popularity. Shopify, a renowned eCommerce software platform, has become a favorite choice for many businesses. While establishing a Shopify store is essential, maintaining and optimizing it for success is equally crucial. Hiring a skilled Shopify development services is imperative to get the most out of Shopify’s exclusive features. In this blog, we will discuss the ten essential qualities you should consider before hiring a Shopify development company to ensure the success of your eCommerce business.
Years of Experience
When considering a Shopify development company, one of the first things to evaluate is their experience level. Opting for an experienced developer is crucial, especially if your business has a vast product catalog. Optimizing an eCommerce store requires expertise in handling numerous elements such as images, payment gateways, checkout alternatives, SEO, and more. A seasoned Shopify developer can assist you in setting up and configuring your store, ensuring a seamless transition. They should also be well-versed in data integration and migration, critical tasks when moving from an old eCommerce site to a new one.
Proficiency in Shopify APIs
Application Programming Interfaces, or APIs, for Shopify are essential for turning a basic website into a fully operational online store. Therefore, it is essential to assess a Shopify developer’s understanding and experience with these APIs. Shopify offers various APIs to address different business challenges. For example, the Storefront API allows developers to customize shopping experiences, while the Marketing Events API enables the creation of marketing events triggered during email campaigns. Before hiring a Shopify developer, it is crucial to familiarize yourself with the different Shopify APIs by referring to the official API guidelines page. During your discussion with the developer, inquire about their expertise in the specific APIs you have identified. A developer well-acquainted with Shopify APIs can provide the value and customization you desire.
Post-Launch Support and Maintenance
A reliable Shopify development company understands that their job continues once your online store goes live. To ensure your eCommerce organization runs smoothly, they should provide thorough support and upkeep services. Before finalizing your decision, visit the developer’s website and look for information regarding post-launch support. Some companies may provide free support and maintenance for a limited period, while others may charge a fee from the start. Regardless of the specifics, it is crucial to have a post-launch service in place to address any issues or updates that may arise.
Mobile Optimization Expertise
Your online store has to be mobile-friendly, given the rise in the global number of smartphone users. According to Statista, the global count of mobile phone users is projected to reach 7.33 billion by 2023. To tap into this growing mobile commerce market, ensuring your Shopify store is optimized for mobile devices is crucial. When evaluating a Shopify development company, inquire about their familiarity with mobile devices and how they test the final product. It is essential to understand the platforms and devices they use to provide the best mobile experience to your customers. While virtual machines can provide some insights, it is ideal to have your Shopify store tested on physical devices to observe how features perform in real-world scenarios.
Project Management and Communication Tools
Clear and effective communication is vital during your Shopify web store construction. Therefore, it is essential to inquire about the Shopify development company’s project management and communication tools. With numerous platforms available in the market, ensuring that the developer is willing to adapt to the means of your choice is crucial. Your active participation and feedback will influence the final product, so a clear communication line is essential for a successful collaboration.
Inclusion of Bug Fixes and Minor Updates
Nobody wants to pay for corrections and minor updates separately. When hiring a Shopify development company, ensure they include bug fixes and minor updates in their package. A skilled and experienced developer will strive to deliver a flawless product from the start, but minor updates may still be necessary. These updates allow you to make minor modifications to your project without incurring additional costs. The absence of minor changes in the developer’s offering may indicate their reluctance to accommodate such requests, treating each modification as a separate order. Look for a developer who understands the importance of ongoing support and will make minor updates as needed.
Transparent Communication and Prompt Responses
Clear communication between you and the Shopify development company is essential to avoid misunderstandings and unnecessary costs. A reliable Shopify development company will have a dedicated project manager who can promptly respond to your inquiries concerning the project’s business and technical components. Please pay attention to their responsiveness and the accuracy of their responses. Whether you reach out via email or a sales chat, observe how quickly they respond and how effectively they address your concerns. Transparent communication ensures a smooth workflow and a successful outcome for your eCommerce project.
Ability to Handle Rush Projects
In a fast-paced corporate environment, time is of the essence. There may be instances when you require a last-minute project completion or assistance with an urgent assignment. This is when a reliable Shopify development company with experience handling rush projects can be invaluable. Compared to freelancers who may struggle with tight deadlines, a more significant development agency can efficiently manage such projects without compromising quality. Their experience with similar ASAP projects and a streamlined workflow allows them to deliver results quickly. When assessing a Shopify development company, inquire about their experience with rush projects to have a reliable backup plan when time is of the essence.
Efficient Project Timeline
Hiring a Shopify developer with the appropriate skill set is essential to ensuring a successful relationship. Here are some critical skills to look for:
- Complete understanding of JQuery, PHP, and JavaScript
- Hands-on experience working with Shopify APIs
- Proficiency in version control for Shopify theme development
- Strong portfolio showcasing previous client projects
- Excellent presentation and communication skills
You can be sure that a Shopify developer possessing these abilities will be able to create a unique and high-quality eCommerce store.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting a Shopify development company is an important choice that will significantly influence how well your eCommerce enterprise does. By considering these ten essential qualities, you can identify the right development partner who will build your Shopify store and provide ongoing support and maintenance. Remember to evaluate their experience, proficiency in Shopify APIs, mobile optimization expertise, communication tools, the inclusion of bug fixes and minor updates, transparent communication, ability to handle rush projects, efficient project timeline, and essential skills. With the right Shopify development company, you can create a thriving online store and achieve eCommerce success.
