Last Updated on June 20, 2022
Looking for a Microsoft SharePoint development specialist?
A Microsoft SharePoint development specialist is a person who has the necessary skills to develop and customize Microsoft SharePoint applications.
Before you go on a hiring spree, take a little break first and learn about the things you need to consider when hiring one.
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Microsoft SharePoint is a complex system — though it’s not impossible for someone to learn it on the fly.
However, to make the most use of your investment, it’s essential that you find someone who is knowledgeable about the ins and outs of the system.
For example, who will you prefer more:
- Someone who doesn’t have a clear track record of his work
- Someone who is on the Microsoft MVP list
Without a doubt, you will hire someone who is more trustworthy — someone you’re confident to take on your project without wasting your money.
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With that, here are things you need to consider before hiring a Microsoft SharePoint development specialist:
1. Freelancer vs agency
The first thing you need to decide is whether you want to hire an individual freelancer or an agency.
There are advantages and disadvantages to both:
- An individual freelancer is usually cheaper, but there’s also a higher risk that they might not be able to deliver what you need.
- An agency, on the other hand, will cost you more, but they usually have a team of experts who can work on your project.
It will be good to look at the project first and how much time you’re willing to give whoever you hire.
Naturally, you must take into account your budget too. But I’m positive that what’s important is to get the job done at the right schedule.
2. Their portfolio and work history
When looking at an individual freelancer or an agency’s portfolio, take note of the projects they’ve worked on in the past.
- Do they have experience working on Microsoft SharePoint projects?
- Do they have a good track record of completing projects on time?
These are just some of the things you need to consider when checking out their portfolio.
Of course, you also need to take a look at their work history:
- Do they have Microsoft SharePoint development experience?
- How many years have they been doing it?
Through this, you will gain an idea of how much the team or the specialist costs depending on the scope of the project.
You can also contact their clients directly and ask about the project, the quality, and the experience (sort of asking for a review).
3. Work quality and ethics
When you’ve gathered enough information about the background of your potential Microsoft SharePoint development specialist, it’s time to interview them.
- You need to see if they’re a good fit for the job and if they will be able to work with you long-term.
- Ask about their previous projects and what tools or methodologies they used.
- Then, you can ask about the work process and how they handle project changes.
You should also enquire about their work ethic and if they have a policy on working overtime or weekends.
Well, if you have followed my advice about contacting their previous clients, you might get a good idea of their work quality and ethics.
4. Questions, questions, and questions for you
One thing I believe that’s a good sign that the one you will hire will take “ownership” of the project is how much they ask questions about it.
Remember:
- Asking questions shows how much they care for the project’s success.
- Consultation is the key for them to deliver the best solution.
- Make sure that you and the potential Microsoft SharePoint specialist are on the same page.
It would be nice to have a consultation first so that both of you will understand what’s expected and what needs to be done.
After that, if they’re still interested in taking on the project, then they’re probably the right specialists for you.
5. Potential cost of service
When you’ve considered all of the things I’ve mentioned, it’s time to talk about the price.
The cost of service is one of the most important factors you need to consider when hiring Microsoft SharePoint specialists.
- Most basic solutions can potentially reach somewhere around $10,000 to create.
- The cost can build up depending on the number of employees you have and what you want for the solution.
- Spot hidden costs as well like outsourcing fees (better for the specialist to be upfront about the likely costs).
You need to make sure that you’re getting your money’s worth. However, I’m not saying that you should go for the cheapest Microsoft SharePoint specialist there is.
What I’m saying is that you should be able to see a good ROI for your investment.
Hiring Microsoft SharePoint specialists is a big decision, and you need to take into account a lot of factors before settling on someone.
You need to consider the quality of their work, their Microsoft SharePoint development experience, their work ethic, and, of course, the cost of service.
Make sure that you’re hiring the right specialist for the job so that you can have a successful Microsoft SharePoint project.
What are your thoughts on the considerations I listed? Share your thoughts and questions in the comment section.
For inquiries and other concerns, please use the site’s contact page and I’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
